"He's the future" – Manager believes Chelsea have secured themselves something special

Portugal manager Jorge Jesus called Quenda "the future of the national team" after watching his performance in Chelsea's match against Tottenham, selecting the 19-year-old for the senior squad.

Chelsea youngster Geovany Quenda has earned a call-up to Portugal's senior squad following his rare start against Tottenham, despite limited playing time at Stamford Bridge under Xabi Alonso.

Portugal manager Jorge Jesus watched the London derby and was sufficiently impressed to include the 19-year-old in his latest squad. "He's a kid, a young player, he's the future of the national team," Jesus said at his press conference. While Quenda's attacking contribution was limited—he completed no dribbles, attempted just 12 passes and created no chances—Jesus highlighted his defensive work, noting his two successful tackles and four possession recoveries.

Jesus explained the selection is part of a broader strategy to integrate younger players into the senior setup. "I want to start getting the young players adapted," he said. "It's about my ideas, getting them adapted to my ideas, so that with each call-up they're closer and better prepared." Quenda's promotion comes despite his club situation remaining largely unchanged, with the winger still struggling for regular minutes at Chelsea.