Bruno Varela

Bruno Miguel Semedo Varela is a professional football from Portugal. Born on the 4th of November, 1994, in the capital city of Lisbon, Varela plays as a Goalkeeper. He is currently featuring in the Primeira Liga for Benfica FC.

Background

Varela developed a liking to the game at a very early age. He joined the youth system of Benfica at a tender age of 11. After showing considerable progress, he appeared for the reserve team in September 2012 in a 2–0 away win against C.D. Aves.

The goalkeeper quickly went up in the pecking order and became the undisputed starter for the team when they were in the second division form 2013 to 2015.

Debut

Varela has represented Portugal at various youth levels. However, his U19 debut for Portugal came in the 2013 U19 UEFA European Championships. He featured against Spain on the 20th of July, 2013 which saw Portugal losing the game 0-1. Portugal went on to win two other games but ended up losing to Serbia in the semi-finals 3-2 on penalties. He was a part of 2013 U20 FIFA World CUp squad but played second fiddle to Josa Sa who was the first choice goalkeeper.

Rise to Glory

Varela had a good run with Benfica from 2013 to 2015. He got to play most of the matches and did quite well there.

The goalkeeper was the first choice player for Portugal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Portugal reached the quarter-final stage before being hammered 4-0 at the hands of Germany.

On 5th August, 2017, Benfica beat Vitória de Guimarães in the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira 3-1 to win the title. Bruno Varela was the goalkeeper in the match. This was his first title with the senior team.

Low Points

Varela committed a blunder while playing for Benfica which resulted in a 1–2 away defeat against Boavista FC. This had a negative impact on his career as he was considered as surplus to the team’s requirements. However, as the first choice goalkeeper was ruled out due to influenza, Varela got opportunities in further games.