2 February 2007, by Marco Pereira

Chinese ace aiming to make has mark at Benfica

Brazilian centre-back David Luiz also presented to the press

Benfica yesterday unveiled 18-year-old striker, Yu Dabao, to the press and fans. The Chinese starlet was presented by club director, Antonio Carraca, at the club’s training ground in Seixal.

The player is to remain with the club’s junior squad until May, and will then stay with Benfica for an additional three years. Dabao had a previous stint with the club last year and impressed so much that the Eagles decided to bring him back.

“He is an extremely talented player who will improve the quality of our youth team, and at the same time he is a player we are counting on to be potentially valuable to the senior squad,” said Carraca.

“He is a player for the future. He is a powerful striker, technically gifted, who can bring many happy moments to Benfica’s fans.”

The player is excited to be joining the Eagles and feels the move is the right one for his career: “I am a good player technically and with Portuguese football rooted in technique, I think I will adapt well to this style,” he said.

Benfica first noticed Dabao two years ago at the under-17 World Cup and fought off strong competition to land his signature. He is described as a “massive treasure” by the club. Dabao will be the first Chinese player to play in the Portuguese league, and the first Asian player to join Benfica.

Luiz keen to grasp his chance

Meanwhile, Benfica yesterday also introduced their new central defender, David Luiz. The Brazilian comes to the club on loan until the end of the season from Vitoria da Baia and will attempt to play his way to a permanent deal.

“I came here to perform the same way I did in Brazil. This is an excellent opportunity that many would like to have, a golden opportunity at a club recognised worldwide.”

“I will work extremely hard and I’m sure my chance will come. I’m sure I’ll show my football and will try to grab my opportunities,” added the defender.