Speaking during a visit by the Primeira Liga team to the Town Hall, the mayor explained that a Planning and Management Operational Unit (UOPG) has been created to reserve land for the new facility, which is included in the PDM’s second revision, which is currently under public consultation.

“We’ve developed a UOPG included in the PDM, which is expected to be approved soon. A preliminary project was drawn up in collaboration with Vitória. It will be an expansion of the existing academy and an excellent one. We’re talking about 8 to 10 hectares for around 8 to 10 football pitches with supporting infrastructure,” said Bragança.

Vitória’s vice-president, Nuno Leite, emphasised the importance of the new facility, planned near the border of the Silvares and Ponte parishes, west of Guimarães city centre. He described it as “crucial to the club’s development,” particularly as the academy is seen as key to improving the club’s financial health through youth training.

“To do that, proper facilities are essential. Unfortunately, the current academy is no longer sufficient. We’re grateful for the council’s support. Now it’s to Vitória, step by step and within our means. We know exactly what we want. We may not be able to build all eight or none pitches at once,” he said.

Also a board member of Vitória’s SAD, Leite ruled out any excessive spending and declined to say whether any pitches would be ready before the current board’s mandate ends in 2028.

The current academy, in use since the late 20th century, includes three natural grass and three synthetic pitches: Leite confirmed the club’s aims to qualify for European competitions again by the end of the 2025/26 season.