Brentford and Gil Vicente agree strategic partnership | OneFootball

Brentford and Gil Vicente have agreed a strategic club partnership aimed at sharing knowledge and improving player development and performance.

And this week the Bees welcomed a delegation from the Portuguese side as part of their first exchange visit to west London.

Staff from Gil Vicente spent time at Gtech Community Stadium and Robert Rowan Performance Centre, meeting with Bees colleagues to explore how both clubs approach football strategy, recruitment, coaching, communications, marketing and fan engagement.

Gil Vicente brought valuable perspectives from the Primeira Liga, offering fresh approaches and lessons learned from their own experiences in the Portuguese top flight.

Brentford technical director Lee Dykes emphasised the importance of collaboration in the modern game: “Football is always evolving, and one way to improve is by sharing knowledge. Gil Vicente has a proud history and are well-respected for their youth development, their resilience and their community spirit. This visit is an opportunity to exchange ideas, challenge each other, and most importantly, to learn.

“It is very important for Brentford to continue to be resourceful and innovative in our football operations. This partnership with Gil Vicente will help us improve all aspects of our player development model and allow us to have a close relationship with a well-respected club in Portugal which is a thriving football country.”

Gil Vicente president Rui Silva added: "A partnership with a club competing in the world's most challenging league represents a unique opportunity to elevate our structure. Brentford has been a reference in data, player recruitment and development, as well as in its relationship with fans. These values align perfectly with our vision for the future of Gil Vicente."

This initiative is part of Brentford’s ongoing efforts to build relationships beyond the Premier League, connecting with clubs around the world that share similar values and ambitions.

As Brentford continues to grow on and off the pitch, partnering with like-minded clubs will continue to help the club challenge conventional thinking and build a strong network across the game.