Who is new Benfica striker Franjo Ivanovic

In the high-stakes world of Portuguese football, Benfica has pulled off a masterstroke this summer by signing 21-year-old Croatian striker Franjo Ivanovic from Union Saint-Gilloise for a club-record €22.8 million (plus €5 million in add-ons). The deal, finalized on July 31, 2025, came with a five-year contract until 2030 and a staggering €100 million release clause.

Ivanovic embodies the raw talent that's propelling him into Europe's elite spotlight. Ivanovic's journey began humbly at age five with SVG Mayrhofen in Austria (2008-2015), followed by a brief stint at JFG Lohwald. His breakthrough came at Augsburg's youth academy from 2016 to 2021, where he honed his skills in Germany's competitive setup. Loan spells at NK Lokomotiva Zagreb sharpened his edge before a permanent move to HNK Rijeka in 2023, where he netted 12 goals in 28 league games.

His meteoric rise peaked last season at Union SG, scoring 20 goals and adding five assists to clinch the Belgian title and drawing bids from Wolves, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Como, but Ivanovic chose Benfica. Standing at 6 foot 1, with a powerful right foot, Ivanovic is a classic target man who is aerially dominant, relentless in pressing and lethal in the box with clinical finishing. 

His blend of physicality, pace, and intelligent movement echoes a young Edin Dzeko, but with a modern work rate that fits Benfica's high-pressing system. Benfica fans can expect fireworks when he and current club striker Vangelis Pavlidis gel. Ivanonic has already chipped in three goals for the club in twelve appearances playing mostly out of position.

The Eagles might have found themselves a gem... Welcome, Franjo to Lisbon and Benfica.

Richard Rios has been a bust for Benfica, now what?

When Benfica splashed a club record €27 million for Richard Rios this summer, expectations soared. The 25-year-old Colombian midfielder, fresh from impressive Copa America displays, was hailed as a dynamic addition to bolster the Eagles' midfield. His debut in the Super Cup, where Benfica clinched a trophy, hinted at his potential with a solid 84% pass accuracy and strong duels won.

Yet, after 12 games of action for the club across all competitions, Rios's tenure has been a resounding bust, failing to live up to the hype of his arrival from Palmeiras. Rios has logged over 1,000 minutes but has yet to contribute a goal or an assist and has left heads scratching with his poor spot kicks.

Fans have voiced frustration, labeling him "overrated" and questioning the investment, especially after moving fan favourite Florentino to Burnley before the window closed.

Adaptation from Brazilian to Portuguese football, coupled with high pressure, has evidently stifled his flair. Benfica must prioritize patience and strategy. Grant him consistent starts in a central midfield role where he thrived at Palmeiras and allow more attacking freedom rather than focusing on defensive duties. 

Newly hired coach Jose Mourinho may need to look at removing Rios from the starting XI and bringing him on as a substitute until he feels that Rios deserves to return to the XI. While off the field, cultural integration programs and confidence boosting sessions could help with strengthening his mental state.

Benfica's investment at this time looks like a bust, but it is only September. We are hoping that Rios shows what made the club decide to spend the record haul on him, let's hope we are not beating the same drum come March 

Mourinho celebrates Benfica return with victory

After a 25-year hiatus, Jose Mourinho made a sensational comeback to Benfica, the club where his legendary coaching journey began. On September 20, 2025..... exactly 25 years to the day since his first game in 2000 "the "Special One" led his team to a convincing 3-0 victory over AVS in the Portuguese League.

The match, played away, showcased Mourinho's tactical acumen as Benfica dominated from the start. Ukrainian midfielder Georgiy Sudakov opened the scoring with a clinical finish, setting the tone for a comfortable win. 

Further goals by strikers Pavlidis and Ivanovic sealed the deal, lifting Benfica's spirits amid a challenging season. Mourinho, ever the showman, reflected post-match with the comment that "25 years haven't changed my nature."

He admitted he hadn't expected the Benfica role, having eyed the Portugal national team job instead. This win isn't just three points; it's a statement. Benfica, under pressure after dismissing Bruno Lage, now has a serial winner at the helm. 

Mourinho's return injects charisma and experience into a squad hungry for titles. With his track record at Porto, Chelsea, and beyond, expect fireworks in Lisbon. Could this be the spark for another Mourinho masterclass? Fans are already buzzing that the Special One is back, and Benfica looks revitalized. 

It's Mourinho time at Benfica as club hires Jose

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Benfica has officially appointed Jose Mourinho as their new manager on a contract running until the summer of 2027, with an optional break clause after this season.

The 62-year-old Portuguese tactician replaces Bruno Lage, who was sacked amid a disappointing run of games and an embarrassing home loss to Qarabag in Champions League play.

This marks a poetic return for Mourinho, who began his managerial journey at Benfica back in 2000, albeit briefly before departing after just ten games. 

Since leaving Benfica 25 years ago, Mourinho has carved out one of the most illustrious careers in football history. His post Benfica odyssey includes stints at Uniao de Leiria (2001–2002), FC Porto (2002–2004), Chelsea (2004–2007 and 2013–2015), Inter Milan (2008–2010), Real Madrid (2010–2013), Manchester United (2016–2018), Tottenham Hotspur (2019–2021), Roma (2021–2024), and most recently, Fenerbahce (2024–2025), from which he departed in August.

Each chapter added to his legend, transforming clubs into title contenders with his trademark defensive solidity and motivational prowess. Mourinho's trophy cabinet is the stuff of envy, boasting an astonishing 26 major honors.

Highlights include two UEFA Champions League titles (with FC Porto in 2004 and Inter Milan in 2010), three Premier League wins (all with Chelsea), two Serie A crowns (Inter Milan), one La Liga (Real Madrid), and various domestic cups like the FA Cup, Coppa Italia, and Copa del Rey. His European triumphs extend to the UEFA Cup/Europa League (FC Porto 2003, Manchester United 2017) and the inaugural Europa Conference League (Roma 2022). 

This haul cements him as one of the greatest managers ever, with a win rate often exceeding 60%. Benfica fans are buzzing with excitement about Mourinho's return and hope that he could reignite their Portuguese League dominance and European ambitions. Facing old foes like Chelsea and Real Madrid in Champions League clashes, adds spice to the appointment.

At his inaugural press conference, Mourinho declared himself "hungrier than ever." Will this homecoming deliver another chapter of glory? Football awaits with bated breath. 

Benfica sack Bruno Lage after horrific Qarabag loss

In a stunning turn of events that has rocked Portuguese football, Benfica has parted ways with manager Bruno Lage following a disastrous 3-2 home defeat to Azerbaijani side Qarabag in their Champions League opener, blowing a two goal advantage.

This loss not only marked Qarabag's historic first win in the competition's main draw but also spelled the end of Bruno Lage's second stint as Benfica manager.

The match began promisingly for Benfica, who surged to a 2-0 lead early on. However, a catastrophic collapse ensued as Qarabag mounted an improbable comeback, scoring three goals to secure victory. Fans expressed their fury with boos and white handkerchiefs waving in protest, demanding Lage's head. 

The defeat highlighted defensive frailties and tactical missteps under Lage, who had returned to Benfica after spells at Wolves and Botafogo, aiming to revive the glory of his first tenure where he clinched the 2018-19 Portuguese League title.

Lage's second spell, however, was marred by inconsistency. Despite high expectations, recent form had been underwhelming and this Champions League humiliation proved the final straw. Benfica's board acted swiftly, announcing his dismissal mere hours after the final whistle.

In his post-match comments, Lage appeared baffled by the team's performance, calling it "not normal." What Lage left out was that he clearly looked like a man out of ideas, with a team that on paper should have run away with this contest.

This sacking leaves Benfica searching for a new manager amid a packed schedule, including domestic league battles and further European fixtures. Fans hope for a quick rebound from this embarrassing loss and one name that is already being heavily linked with a return to Benfica after 25 years is Jose Mourinho.

Benfica's goal drought a concern ahead of Qarabag game

As the 2025-26 season unfolds, Benfica finds itself grappling with an uncharacteristic struggle to find the back of the net. Despite a solid defensive record, the Eagles have managed just 13 goals across nine competitive matches, averaging a modest 1.44 per game. 

This tally includes several low-scoring affairs that have fans and analysts alike raising eyebrows, especially with a pivotal UEFA Champions League league phase opener against Qarabag looming on September 16.

The campaign kicked off promisingly with a 1-0 Super Cup victory over rivals Sporting, thanks to a Vangelis Pavlidis goal. However, the Champions League qualifiers exposed vulnerabilities; a goalless draw away to Fenerbahce on August 20, was followed by a gritty 1-0 home win in the return leg, courtesy of a going away gift from Kerem Akturkoglu. 

Domestically, narrow 1-0 and 2-1 wins against Amadora and Alverca showed efficiency but lacked flair, while a frustrating 1-1 draw with Santa Clara on Friday after being up a man for almost 60 minutes at home has added to the frustration with the club's performances.

Greek striker Pavlidis has scored three of the thirteen markers but the attack's predictability has been evident, with defenses crowding out their creative outlets and Bruno Lage without answers on the sideline on how to break down the defensive structures.

Enter Qarabag, the Azerbaijani champions who boast a potent counter-attack. At Estadio da Luz, Benfica must rediscover its ruthless edge. A win here is essential for momentum in a revamped Champions League format. Will the Eagles soar, or will the drought deepen? Fans will hold their breath as they wait for answers.

Who is new Benfica midfielder Richard Rios

Richard Rios is a 25 year old Colombian international midfielder who joined Benfica this summer from Brazilian side Palmeiras on July 22 for a club record €27 million. He signed a contract with Benfica until the summer of 2030 with a €100 million buy clause.

Rios begin as a futsal player, honing his skills before making the move professional football. His journey took him from Colombia to Brazil where he joined Flamengo's youth clubs. He moved to Palmeiras in March 2023 and emerged as a key member of the squad and was recognized as the Brazilian leagues best dribbler in 2023.

Rios is a versatile midfielder capable of playing various roles, primarily as a central or defensive midfielder, with the ability to contribute in attacking positions. His style is shaped by his futsal background, which gives him exceptional dribbling, quick footwork, and agility.

Benfica views Ríos as an “all-action midfielder” to bolster their midfield for domestic and Champions League competitions. However, early performances have drawn mixed reviews from fans, with some labeling him “overrated” due to high expectations from the record-breaking fee.

Critics argue his contributions haven’t yet matched the investment, though his technical attributes suggest potential for growth under Benfica’s coaching. Rios will need some time to adapt to European football but he has the tools to become a stand out in the Portuguese League and beyond.
 

Who is new Benfica winger Dodi Lukebakio

Dodi Lukebakio is a 27-year-old Belgian international forward who recently joined Benfica from Sevilla on September 1, 2025, in a deal worth €20 million plus €4 million in performance-based bonuses. He signed a contract until June 2030, with a €50 million release clause.

A versatile right winger or midfielder, Lukebakio is known for his speed, dribbling, finishing and ability to assist. He began his career at Anderlecht’s youth academy, debuted for their first team in 2015, and has since played for clubs like Toulouse, Charleroi, Watford, Fortuna Dusseldorf, Hertha Berlin, Wolfsburg, and Sevilla. 

Over 10 seasons, he has 52 goals and 22 assists in 213 top-five league appearances. At Sevilla, he scored 17 goals in 68 matches. Currently recovering from a muscular edema in his right leg, he’s expected to debut for Benfica by mid-to-late September. He has 27 caps for Belgium, including playing in Euro 2024.

Lukebakio is enthusiastic in joining Benfica and had some positive comments about the club’s passionate fanbase, which indicates he’s motivated to make an impact. Tactical adjustments by Benfica’s coach may focus on leveraging his speed and flair to enhance the team’s attacking dynamics as the club looks towards a title winning campaign.

Who's Who that is running for Benfica President

The elections are set for October 25, 2025 and Benfica socios will be elect who their club President will be over the next four years.

The main candidates for this falls election include incoming President Rui Costa, former club President Luis Filipe Vieira, entrepreneur Joao Noronha Lopes and lawyer Joao Diogo Manteigas

In 2021 Rui Costa was elected the 34th club President replacing Luis Filipe Vieira who was forced to resign his position as he dealt with legal matters. Costa won the election with 84.4% of the popular vote from 40,085 submitted ballots, the most in the history of the club elections. 

Luis Filipe Vieira is hoping to return to a role that he held from 2003 to 2021, making him the longest serving club President in history. He was President during major projects like the Estadio da Luz and the Seixal training academy.

Joao Noronha Lopes ran against Vieira in the 2020 election and has re-entered his name for another try at President, he hopes to create a new football model led by Nuno Gomes as Vice President and wants to move the club forward with their use of technology like A.I. 

Joao Diogo Manteigas is a sports law attorney and has gained some traction for his clear ideas and willingness to bring debate and has support from a sector of the club's fans. He is the youngest candidate and hopes to give more of voice and power to the club's members and fans.

Other candidates to declare for the October election include Martim Mayer who is running on the slogan "Benfica in the Blood" and Cristovao Carvalho who wants to work on the goal of Benfica once again capturing the European Champions League within 4 to 6 years of his Presidency.

The fresh faces at Benfica and the fond farewells

As the 2025/26 season kicks off, Benfica has been active in the transfer market, blending youth with experience to challenge for the Primeira Liga title and European glory. Under manager Bruno Lage, the club invested heavily in midfield and forward reinforcements while cashing in on key assets.

This summer's window, saw a net spend that reflects Benfica's ambition to dominate domestically and compete in the Champions League. The standout signing was Colombian defensive midfielder Richard Rios who arrived from Palmeiras in July 23 for a club record €27 million.

Rios, 25, brings tenacity and vision, addressing gaps in the engine room after last season's inconsistencies. Benfica also acquired Bosnian right-back Amar Dedic, who joined from Red Bull Salzburg for €12 million and the 22 year-old has already impressed at the club.

Argentine Enzo Barrenechea arrived on loan from Aston Villa in July, providing versatile defensive midfield cover for the season. His Premier League experience adds maturity to a young squad. Benfica added Rafa Obrador from Real Madrid, the 21 year old came at a bargain price of only €5 million.