João Vilela


João Pedro Ferreira Vilela is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder.

Club career

A youth product of hometown's S.L. Benfica, joining at the age of nine, Vilela was promoted to the main squad for the 2004–05 season, but only appeared in preseason for the club, joining Gil Vicente F.C. on loan in January 2006. On 26 March, he scored in a 1–1 home draw against Vitória de Guimarães, in his fifth Primeira Liga appearance.
With the Barcelos side now in the second division, the move was made permanent in the summer, and Vilela amassed 74 official appearances in three full campaigns, netting 11 goals. In 2009 he moved to another team in that level, C.D. Fátima, returning to Gil Vicente in the following year and contributing with three goals in 25 matches in his second season for a return to the top flight after five years.
On 25 June 2012, Vilela joined Iran Pro League side Tractor Sazi F.C. on a two-year contract, along with compatriot Anselmo Cardoso. In the following transfer window, however, he returned to his previous club.
In early July 2015, after suffering relegation to division two, Vilela left Gil and signed for C.F. Os Belenenses. However, just six months later, he dropped down to the third tier and joined U.D. Leiria.
On 19 July 2016, 30-year-old Vilela moved abroad again as he agreed to a two-year contract with FC Schaffhausen. He scored on his debut five days later, helping to a 1–0 win over FC Wil for the Swiss Challenge League; at his own request, he was released on 26 February 2017.