Benfica's potential opponents in the Club World Cup

This upcoming summer's Club World Cup in the United States which will feature 32 clubs is all but set with only two spots yet to be determined as clubs from around the globe via to be named the best club in the world through the first time competition.

The tournament will follow the same type of schedule and format as the World Cup. It will feature eight groups of four clubs and take place over a four week span, kicking off on June 15, 2025 with the Final taking place at MetLife Stadium on July 13, 2025. 

Benfica are one of two Portuguese clubs taking part in the tournament with northern rivals FC Porto also qualifying for the competition through a point system as one of the eight best clubs over the past four seasons outside of Champions League winners. The group stage draw will take place on December 2024.

These clubs have qualified for the tournament:

UEFA (12): BENFICA, FC PORTO, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, PSG, Inter Milan, Juventus, Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid, RB Salzburg. 

CONMEBOL (6): Palmeiras, Flamengo, Fluminense, River Plate, Boca Juniors, 2024 Copa Libertadores Winer

CONCACAF (5): Monterrey, Seattel, Leon, Pachuca, Host MLS Club

CAF (4): Al Ahly, Wydad, Mamelodi Sundowns, Esperance de Tunis

AFC (4): Al-Hilal, Urawa Red Diamonds, Al Ain, Ulsan

OFC (1): Auckland City  

The remaining spot through CONMEBOL will be known at the end of the month and will go to either Botafogo, Atletico Mineiro or Penarol depending on who wins the competition, if River Plate are to win the competition then the final spot will go to Olympia.

The remaining spot through CONCACAF will be given to a host club which will come from the MLS. Rumour has it that Inter Miami will be given the final spot for capturing the Supporters Shield during this regular season. The spot could also go to the MLS Champion which will be decided in early December. 

Although not official, the tournament is said to be set to award each competing club €50M for appearing with the eventually winner taking home over €100M in prize money.

Benfica may look to add another Turkish player to squad

With the success of the last minute transfer move this summer for Turkish winger Kerem Akturkoglu and the return to form of midfielder Orkun Kokcu with the change of managers at the club, Benfica now have their eyes set on another Turkish player, this time it being Fenerbahce midfielder Ismail Yuksek.

Benfica is looking to strengthen their midfield and the move is expected to take place when the winter transfer window opens in January. Yuksek has been with Fenerbache since the summer of 2020. Although the 25 year old spent loan spells at Turkish sides Adana Demirspor and Bursaspor before becoming a main squad player during the 2022-23 season.

Benfica manager Bruno Lage would like to add a defensive midfielder to the squad in the mold of Florentino, which the club currently lacks at this time. Reports out of Portugal suggest that the club is open to paying €10M for the services of Yuksek when the transfer window opens.

Yuksek is under contract with Fenerbahce until the summer of 2027 and has appeared in 91 games for the club across all competitions, scoring twice while providing seven helpers. Yuksek has also been a regular member of the Turkish national side since 2022 and was a member of this summer's Euro 2024 tournament.

Benfica need to let the young guns shine on the back line

Benfica’s defense has been a topic of discussion lately, especially with club captain Nicolás Otamendi growing older. Bruno Lage, the team’s manager, faces a key decision on who to rely on in the backline. By regularly playing Tomas Araujo and Antonio Silva as center backs, he can strengthen his squad while managing Otamendi’s playing time effectively.

The Case for Tomas Araujo

Tomas Araujo is a 22 year old rising star in Benfica's ranks. He embodies youthful energy combined with solid skills. When Araujo takes the field, he brings an enthusiasm that can spark the entire team’s defense. His ability to read the game allows him to intercept passes and make crucial tackles. Just like a fresh breeze on a hot day, Araujo rejuvenates the backline, offering a new perspective on defending.

Lage should recognize that Araujo's development isn’t just about getting experience; it’s about creating a dependable foundation for the team's future. Why not give him regular minutes? Engaging with the intensity of regular play will only enhance his confidence. And with more time on the pitch, he can adapt his style to better fit the team’s needs.

Antonio Silva: The Next Big Thing

Alongside Araujo, Antonio Silva also deserves a prominent spot in the defensive lineup. He’s a 20 year old player ready to seize opportunities. His composure on the ball and tactical awareness at such a young age set him apart from the competition. It’s like having a well-oiled machine, ready to spring into action when called upon.

Reuniting the UEFA Youth League title winners together not only strengthens the defense but also fosters and grows a bond between the young players. It’s crucial for any team to have chemistry on the field, and these two can build that connection with every match they play together going forward.

The Reality of Otamendi’s Age

Nicolas Otamendi is undeniably a skilled defender with years of experience under his belt. But now at 36 years old and turning 37 during the season, the reality is that he can’t cover every blade of grass like he used to. Rather than relying on him every week, Lage should take a step back and rotate Otamendi thoughtfully. Think of it like a well-tuned orchestra; every musician has their moment to shine while ensuring the symphony is harmonious.

By limiting Otamendi's minutes, Lage not only preserves his skills but also gives the young defenders the chance to learn from him. Otamendi on the sidelines, offering tips and insights to Araujo and Silva, creating an environment where the veterans mentor the youngsters.

Building a Future-Proof Defense

Investing in Araujo and Silva isn't just about the present; it’s about building a future-proof defense for Benfica. The Portuguese league is competitive, and a strong, youthful defense can be the backbone of a successful team. As the saying goes, "A team is only as strong as its weakest link." If Lage focuses on nurturing his younger talents, he ensures his squad is robust and adaptable to any challenge.

Benfica has the potential to create a defense that’s as resilient as it is dynamic. With Araujo and Silva taking center stage, the more seasoned players can step back when needed, ensuring the squad remains fresh and ready for every match.

Time for a New Era

Bruno Lage stands at a crossroads with his defensive strategy. Embracing Araujo and Silva while easing Otamendi into a rotational role is a step toward modernizing Benfica's defense. It’s about balancing experience with youth and setting the stage for future success. If Lage plays it right, Benfica's defense could transform into a well-coordinated unit that not only stands tall today but prepares for the battles of tomorrow. The time to act is now; let the young guns shine!