Vasco's strategy of integrating young players into the first team has yielded impressive results. The club has used the Copa Sul-Americana as a platform to give experience to its youth players, with Ramon Rique being a prime example. The 18-year-old midfielder gained space in the team after performing well in the international tournament, and has since consolidated himself as a key player in the Vasco midfield.
The club's work in integrating its youth players has also led to the development of other talented players, such as Avellar and Andrey Fernandes. The latter, an 18-year-old forward, scored the two goals that secured the Brasileirão sub-20 title for Vasco. Fernandes has also been praised for his performances in the Copa Sul-Americana and has been included in the team's training sessions.
The success of Vasco's youth development programme has been reflected in the club's performances on the pitch, with 14 young players being given opportunities to play for the first team this season. The club's strategy has also led to the sale of Rayan to Bournemouth for €35 million, making him the club's most valuable player sale in history.