Youth academies, Inter first in Serie A: Benfica lead worldwide
The Nerazzurri academy ranks highest among Italian clubs internationally, with Benfica at the top of the overall standings.
Inter’s youth academy ranks first among Serie A clubs in the international list covering the best development systems in world football. Published on October 21, 2026, the ranking places Benfica at the absolute summit worldwide. The recognition once again highlights the work carried out by the Nerazzurri club in developing young players.
The result confirms Inter’s standing in Italy and puts the club ahead of the other teams from the top division. Benfica therefore lead the global table, while the club from Viale della Liberazione represents Serie A in the highest position. The ranking offers an international view of the value of youth-development pathways rather than focusing only on first-team results.
For Inter, the recognition arrives during a positive week on the pitch: after a 3-1 away win against Bologna on October 17, the Nerazzurri defeated Shakhtar 1-0 in the Champions League on October 21. The next fixture is scheduled for Sunday, October 25, at 12:30, at San Siro against Fiorentina. The Primavera’s progress also remains relevant after its first Youth League victory against Shakhtar.