Renato Sanches: Athlete's Biography

Club Career

Benfica

Renato Sanches made his professional debut for Benfica's B team in October 2014. His ascent to the first team began in the 2015–2016 season. Sanches played a crucial role as Benfica claimed the Primeira Liga and Taça da Liga double. During this season, he notched his first professional goal in a striking 30-meter shot against Académica, quickly becoming known for his impact on the field.

Bayern Munich

In July 2016, Sanches moved to Bayern Munich for €35 million, making him the most expensive Portuguese player to leave the Primeira Liga at that time. Despite a promising start and winning the Golden Boy award, his first season saw limited impact, leading to a loan to Swansea City in the 2017–18 season. Sanches returned to Bayern in 2018, scoring his first goal for the club against Benfica in the Champions League but largely remained on the fringes of the team.

Lille

In August 2019, Sanches joined Lille for a then record fee. Over his tenure, he played a pivotal role in helping Lille clinch their first Ligue 1 title in a decade during the 2020–21 season, forming vital midfield partnerships.

Paris Saint-Germain and Loans

Sanches signed with PSG in August 2022, contributing notably in his debut. Following a season in Ligue 1, he was loaned to Roma, and subsequently returned to Benfica on loan in 2024 as part of a mutually beneficial transfer arrangement.

National Team Career

Youth National Teams

Sanches amassed 40 caps and 8 goals at youth levels for Portugal, showcasing his skills on European stages such as the 2014 UEFA European Under-17 Championship.

Senior National Team

Sanches made his senior debut in March 2016 and was a key figure in Portugal's UEFA Euro 2016-winning squad, earning the Young Player of the Tournament for his impressive performances. He has continued to contribute to Portugal in subsequent international tournaments, being instrumental during Euro 2020 despite the team's early exit.

Renato Júnior Luz Sanches is a Portuguese professional footballer widely recognized for his versatility and significant contributions to club and international football. Born on 18 August 1997, Sanches has already achieved considerable success, including helping Portugal to their first UEFA European Championship title in 2016. Currently, he plays as a midfielder for the Primeira Liga club Benfica, on loan from Paris Saint-Germain. Sanches has a reputation for physical strength and technical skill, making him a pivotal figure for both his clubs and the national team.

Achievements

Team Achievements

• Primeira Liga: 2015–16 (Benfica)
• Taça da Liga: 2015–16 (Benfica)
• Bundesliga Titles: 2016–17, 2018–19 (Bayern Munich)
• Ligue 1: 2020–21 (Lille), 2022–23 (PSG)
• UEFA European Championship: 2016 (Portugal)

Individual Achievements

• Golden Boy: 2016
• UEFA European Championship Young Player of the Tournament: 2016
• Primeira Liga Breakthrough Player: 2015–16
• CNID Awards – Revelation of the Year: 2016

Awards and Recognition

Sanches received significant recognition early in his career with awards such as the Golden Boy and several accolades from his time in Primeira Liga, cementing his status as a top emerging talent.

Career Overview

Renato Sanches has cemented his legacy as a dynamic midfielder with a blend of technical prowess and physicality that makes him a valuable asset in any team. His career highlights include crucial roles in title-winning campaigns at both club and international levels, particularly his standout performances during UEFA Euro 2016.

Off the Field

While the article does not delve deeply into Sanches's life outside football, his personal experience growing up in Lisbon’s Musgueira neighborhood and the challenges faced might contribute to his grounded and resilient public image.

Personal Life

Sanches shares familial ties with fellow footballers Cláudio, Miguel, and Jair Tavares. The footballing lineage in his family further underscores his deep-rooted connection to the sport.