The name Gonçalo Ramos rings loud in the world of football today. This young Portuguese striker has captured the attention of fans, scouts, and analysts with his electrifying performances. From his early days at Benfica to his current role at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Ramos has shown remarkable growth. His journey reflects dedication, skill, and a relentless drive to succeed. In this article, we dive deep into his career, recent achievements, playing style, and what lies ahead for this talented forward.

Early Life: A Dream Born in Olhão

Gonçalo Matias Ramos entered the world on June 20, 2001, in Olhão, a coastal town in Portugal’s Algarve region. Growing up in a football-loving family, he developed a passion for the sport early on. His father, Manuel Ramos, a former youth international, nurtured his love for the game. Young Gonçalo spent hours kicking a ball around local pitches, dreaming of one day playing professionally.

At age nine, he joined Olhanense’s youth ranks, where coaches quickly noticed his raw talent. His speed, sharp instincts, and knack for scoring goals set him apart. Two years later, he moved to Loulé, continuing to hone his skills. Despite a rejection from Sporting CP due to his slight frame, Ramos remained undeterred. In 2013, at just 12 years old, he caught the eye of Benfica’s scouts, marking the start of a transformative chapter.

The Benfica Breakthrough: Rising Through the Ranks

Benfica’s youth academy, renowned for producing world-class talent, became Ramos’ proving ground. He adapted quickly, showcasing his versatility and goal-scoring prowess. By 2019, at 17, he earned a spot with Benfica B in LigaPro, Portugal’s second tier. His debut against Braga B showed flashes of brilliance, even in a losing effort.

In July 2020, Ramos made his first-team debut for Benfica against Desportivo das Aves. Coming off the bench, he scored twice in just eight minutes, announcing his arrival with authority. Fans and coaches buzzed with excitement, seeing a star in the making. However, breaking into Benfica’s stacked senior squad proved challenging. Established forwards like Darwin Núñez and Roman Yaremchuk limited his minutes initially.

Despite this, Ramos stayed patient. In the 2021-22 season, under interim coach Nélson Veríssimo, he seized his chance. He scored seven goals and provided two assists, proving he could compete at the highest level. His versatility allowed him to play as a central striker, second striker, or even on the wing. By the end of the campaign, he had earned a regular spot, setting the stage for a breakout year.

The 2022-23 Season: A Star Is Born

The 2022-23 season marked Ramos’ true emergence. He started with a bang, scoring a hat-trick against Midtjylland in a Champions League qualifier. His partnership with new signing David Neres electrified Benfica’s attack. Ramos’ movement, finishing, and ability to link play made him indispensable.

In November 2022, he earned the Primeira Liga’s Player of the Month and Forward of the Month awards. His brace in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Sporting CP in the Lisbon derby cemented his status as a clutch performer. At just 21, he became the second-youngest player to score twice in that historic rivalry.

Ramos continued to shine in Europe. He netted a brace against Club Brugge in the Champions League knockout stage, becoming the youngest Portuguese player to score twice in such a match. By season’s end, he had tallied 27 goals across all competitions, including 19 in the league. His final goal came in a 3-0 win over Santa Clara, securing Benfica’s first league title in four years. Fans hailed him as the heir to Portugal’s great strikers.

World Cup Spotlight: Stepping Up for Portugal

Ramos’ club form earned him a call-up to Portugal’s 2022 World Cup squad. With Cristiano Ronaldo as the focal point, many expected Ramos to play a supporting role. However, in the round of 16 against Switzerland, coach Fernando Santos made a bold move. He benched Ronaldo and started Ramos.

The young striker delivered in spectacular fashion. Ramos scored a hat-trick and provided an assist in Portugal’s 6-1 rout, becoming the first player to score three goals in a World Cup knockout match since 1990. His performance silenced doubters and showcased his ability to thrive under pressure. Although Portugal fell to Morocco in the quarter-finals, Ramos emerged as a national hero.

The PSG Move: A New Challenge

In August 2023, Ramos joined Paris Saint-Germain on a one-year loan with an option to buy. The move came as Kylian Mbappé’s future at PSG remained uncertain, signaling the club’s intent to build around young talent. Ramos embraced the challenge, eager to prove himself in Ligue 1 and the Champions League.

PSG made the transfer permanent in January 2024 for €65 million, tying Ramos to the club until 2028. His first season showed promise but also hurdles. He scored eight goals in 21 appearances, often coming off the bench. A severe ankle injury in August 2024 sidelined him for three months, delaying his momentum. Surgery followed, and Ramos faced a grueling recovery.

The Comeback: Ramos in 2025

Ramos returned to action in late 2024, determined to reclaim his spot. His comeback goal against St. Etienne in a 6-1 Ligue 1 win sparked celebrations. Since then, he has shown flashes of his Benfica form. In a 4-2 Champions League victory over Manchester City, he scored once, proving he can compete against Europe’s elite.

As of April 2025, Ramos has eight goals and three assists in 23 appearances this season. While he often rotates with PSG’s stacked attack, his impact off the bench remains undeniable. Manager Luis Enrique praises his work rate and finishing, hinting at a bigger role soon. With PSG chasing another Ligue 1 title and a deep Champions League run, Ramos’ contributions will be crucial.

Playing Style: What Makes Ramos Special

Ramos combines old-school striker instincts with modern versatility. Standing at 1.85 meters, he dominates aerial duels and holds up play effectively. His quick feet and sharp positioning allow him to exploit gaps in defenses. Whether finishing with a clinical strike or linking play with teammates, he adapts to any system.

Unlike traditional No. 9s, Ramos thrives in multiple roles. He can drop deep to create chances, press relentlessly, or make runs behind defenders. His work rate off the ball disrupts opponents, making him a coach’s dream. Comparisons to players like Harry Kane and Álvaro Morata highlight his blend of physicality and finesse.

Off the Pitch: A Grounded Talent

Away from football, Ramos keeps a low profile. He values family, often crediting his parents for his success. Despite his fame, he remains humble, focusing on improvement rather than the spotlight. His social media presence reflects his love for the game, with posts celebrating goals and team victories.

In interviews, Ramos speaks thoughtful about his goals. He aims to win trophies with PSG and lead Portugal to international glory. His maturity at 23 suggests a player ready for the long haul. Fans admire his authenticity, seeing him as a relatable figure in a world of superstar egos.

Challenges and Criticism: Growing Pains

No career is without obstacles, and Ramos has faced his share. His limited starts at PSG have sparked debates about his role. Some argue he needs more minutes to reach his potential, while others believe rotation suits his development. His ankle injury raised concerns about durability, though his swift recovery silenced most critics.

In Portugal, comparisons to Ronaldo create immense pressure. While Ramos admires his idol, he strives to carve his own path. Occasional dry spells in front of goal have drawn scrutiny, but his overall impact—through assists and pressing—often goes unnoticed. With time, he aims to silence doubters with consistent performances.

The Future: What Lies Ahead

At 23, Ramos stands at a crossroads. PSG’s ambitions in Europe offer him a platform to shine. A strong 2025-26 season could cement his place as a starter and a Ballon d’Or contender. For Portugal, he represents the next generation, potentially leading the line at the 2026 World Cup alongside talents like João Félix and Rafael Leão.

Interest from clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United persists, but Ramos remains focused on PSG. His €120 million release clause reflects his value, and any move would command a hefty fee. For now, he aims to repay PSG’s faith with goals and trophies.

FAQs About Gonçalo Ramos

1. What inspired Gonçalo Ramos to pursue football professionally?

Growing up in Olhão, Ramos fell in love with football through his father, Manuel, a former player. He spent his childhood playing on local pitches, dreaming of emulating Portuguese legends. His early rejection from Sporting CP fueled his determination to succeed. Joining Benfica’s academy gave him the platform to turn his passion into a career.

2. How did Ramos perform during the 2022 World Cup?

La Liga Ramos made headlines at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Starting against Switzerland in the round of 16, he scored a hat-trick and provided an assist in a 6-1 win. His performance showcased his ability to shine on the global stage. Despite Portugal’s quarter-final exit, Ramos earned widespread praise.

3. What challenges has Ramos faced at PSG?

The Bristol At PSG, Ramos has battled for consistent starts due to a deep attacking roster. A severe ankle injury in 2024 sidelined him for three months, requiring surgery. Despite these hurdles, he has contributed eight goals this season. Adapting to Ligue 1’s physicality and PSG’s high expectations remains an ongoing test.

To read more, Click Here