Benfica lack Portuguese touch in a sea of foreign talent

Benfica, one of Portugal's proudest football clubs, currently finds itself in a tricky situation. With only six Portuguese players on the squad, many fans question whether the club is losing its local flavor. You'd think a club with such rich history and tradition would focus more on homegrown talent, right? Instead, it seems they’re turning to foreign players to fill the gaps. This shift raises eyebrows and concerns among devoted supporters.

Among the few Portuguese players on the squad, only Antonio Silva and Florentino are stepping onto the pitch regularly. They represent a glimmer of hope in a lineup dominated by international talent. Their presence is essential, but can they carry the weight of the team's expectations? Silva, as a defender, and Florentino, as a midfielder, have shown promise. Still, relying on just two players from Portugal just does not feel right.

Why is Benfica leaning heavily on foreign players? It can often seem like a quick fix to achieve immediate success. New talents from various countries bring different styles and skills that can energize the team. But the downside? A lack of familiarity with Portuguese football culture can create gaps that are hard to bridge. This mix of international players might generate excitement on the field, but does it build the team's identity?

For many fans, Benfica symbolizes Portuguese pride. They fondly remember the days when local talent made up the backbone of the team. Now, with a majority of the players coming from abroad, tradition feels like it’s slipping away. How can a club succeed without a strong connection to its roots? This disconnect might lead to a lack of loyalty and passion that typically fuels the players.

When you look at rivals Sporting and FC Porto, these club's have chosen to spend within the league on many occasions and tend to boost four and sometimes even five regular starters on a game by game basis. The summer departures of Joao Neves, Rafa Silva and Joao Mario only added to a growing issue.

So, what’s next for Benfica? The solution lies in finding a perfect balance between local and international players. Developing young Portuguese talents could bring back the club’s essence while still enjoying the benefits of foreign imports. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about instilling pride within the team and among its supporters.

As Benfica navigates its current predicament, it's essential to reflect on what truly defines the club. Winning is crucial, but maintaining a strong connection to Portuguese identity is equally important. The club and its loyal fans deserve a team that embodies the spirit of Portugal while embracing the global nature of football. Only time will tell if Benfica can strike the right balance. 

Current Portuguese squad players: Antonio Silva, Florentino, Tomas Araujo, Tiago Gouveia, Samuel Soares and Renato Sanches