Portugal as a footballing nation has become known for developing supremely talented wingers. Málaga’s Ricardo Horta appears ready to build on that proud tradition. He has overcome the disappointment of being released by Benfica’s academy at age 16 to emerge as one of Portugal’s most promising young stars.

He built his reputation at Vitória de Setúbal last season, which earned him a move to La Liga in the summer. Horta helped Portugal’s Under-21s qualify for the European Championships to take place this summer in the Czech Republic, and in September 2014 received his first senior cap for the Seleção at the age of 19. PortuGOAL profiles Ricardo Horta.

Profile on Braga gem turning heads in Europe

Sporting Braga’s Rafa Silva has experienced an extraordinary rise over the last few seasons. The 21-year-old has emerged from playing in Portugal's second division just a couple of seasons ago to become one of the country's most sought-after young talents.

He had an impressive debut campaign in the Primeira Liga last term, earning his first international caps for Portugal, as well as a place in Paulo Bento's World Cup squad, as the youngest member of the Seleção delegation. This season, he has continued to grow under Braga manager and former Portuguese international Sérgio Conceição.

Lyon’s 3-0 victory over Toulouse on the weekend saw the French side take over at the summit of Ligue 1.

Between the sticks for the table toppers was Portuguese goalkeeper Anthony Lopes, who kept another clean sheet to further improve an impressive record of just 17 goals conceded in 20 matches this season.

PortuGOAL profiles the man many believe will soon be competing with Rui Patrício for Portugal’s number one shirt.

Udinese midfielder Bruno Fernandes has been conspicuous by his absence in Portugal’s all-conquering U21 team over the past couple of years, but should he maintain the superb form of his recent performances, it will become impossible to continue to overlook the 20-year-old playmaker.

The former Boavista youth player took a chance by signing for Italian lower league side Novara Calcio as a 17-year-old. The unusual career move has paid rich dividends. After impressing at Novara, he was snapped up by top-flight club Udinese in the summer of 2013, where he quickly established himself as a first-team regular despite still being a teenager.