Benfica ready to kick off Taca da Liga

 

This Thursday night, the floodlights will flicker on at the Estadio da Luz and Benfica will step onto the pitch to launch their latest Taca da Liga campaign against Gil Vicente. In any other era, this quarter-final clash would be a celebration of domestic intent. Instead, it serves as the opening act of a tournament undergoing a severe identity crisis.

Make no mistake, the history here belongs entirely to the Eagles. Benfica remains the undisputed king of this competition, boasting a record eight Taca da Liga titles. Their golden era, a ruthless stretch of four consecutive trophies between 2009 and 2012, defined the tournament’s early years.

Yet, dominance is a fleeting thing. While they broke a nearly decade-long drought by dramatically capturing their last league cup in the 2024–25 season via a 7–6 penalty shootout against Sporting, last year’s crown slipped away to Vitoria de Guimaraes.

Now, under manager Marco Silva, the pressure to bring the silverware back to Lisbon is immense. But as the team gears up for this high-stakes knockout format, they do so against a backdrop of deep institutional tension. The tournament has been stripped down, redesigned into a top-heavy commercial package tailored more for international television rights than local passion.

When Benfica steps out this week under the lights of the Luz, they must be sharp from the opening whistle. In this uncompromising, winner-take-all knockout format, Silva's Eagles begin a high-stakes sprint to reclaim a cup that has long defined their domestic supremacy.

Red hot Benfica reign supreme in Nicosia

Benfica continued their flawless run in the UEFA Europa League with a dominant 4-1 victory over Omonia Nicosia in Cyprus. Marco Silva's side asserted their authority early on, breaking the deadlock in the 14th minute when Claudio Echeverri’s header deflected off Loïc Nego into the net. Omonia fought back before the break, equalizing through a close-range header from Andronikos Kakoulis.

Second-Half Masterclass

The Portuguese giants took complete control in the second half. Vangelis Pavlidis restored the lead just four minutes after the restart, capitalizing on a rebound. As pressure mounted on the hosts, Fredrik Aursnes intercepted a poor pass to slot home a third in the 76th minute. Gianluca Prestianni capped off the clinical performance in the 85th minute, converting a low cross from Dodi Lukebakio.

This victory leaves Benfica sitting alone at the top of the Europa League table. The Eagles boast a perfect record of three wins from three matches, having previously defeated AC Milan 2-0 and Celtic 4-1. With 10 goals scored and only two conceded, they look like serious contenders for the title.

Benfica watch Monza striker Varela but what rights do they hold

 

Benfica are monitoring Gustavo Varela's explosive start at Monza. Reports disagree on whether a return is close and on what the Eagles can actually do.

From the Seixal Academy to Italy

Varela joined Benfica in January 2022, played from the Under-17s up to the B team, and made his first-team debut against Rio Ave in May 2024. Newly promoted Monza signed him permanently on 27 July until 2030, paying €2.5 million, with Benfica keeping 20 per cent of a future sale.

Buy-Back or Match Clause?

The extra clause is where the reports split. Record says it is a €9.5 million buy-back and claims Benfica are preparing to trigger it. A Bola says no decision has been made. It reports an undisclosed buy-back fee, expected to be around €10 million. Gianluca Di Marzio disagrees, saying no buy-back exists and that Benfica can only match other clubs' offers. Sapo Portugal likewise describes a right to match any offer.

Varela's Season and Career Path

Before the sale, Varela spent the 2025-26 on loan at Gil Vicente, scoring seven goals in 33 matches. Monza is his only club since leaving Benfica permanently in the summer. He has scored six league goals to date and sits second in Serie A's golden boot race.

What Next for Benfica?

Benfica reportedly feel Monza's style differs from what they want in their squad. They plan to assess the situation before deciding on how they will move forward. Until the contract details are confirmed, the buy-back versus match-clause question to date remains unresolved as various sources can not agree on exactly what it is. 

Benfica's €295 million plan to transform the Estadio da Luz

Benfica is preparing one of the largest infrastructure projects in its history. The total cost of the stadium expansion and the “Benfica District” redevelopment is estimated at €295 million, roughly €75 million for the stadium and €220 million for the commercial and urban component of the project which club members have approved.

Stadium Upgrades

Capacity will grow from about 68,100 seats to 80,000 and the stadium will get a new LED-lit facade and larger commercial areas. A new fourth exterior level will add 6,800 square metres for offices, hospitality and retail, and a fan plaza for up to 10,000 people will sit in front of the main entrance. Work will take place in the off-season, so the stadium keeps operating. 

Surrounding Area

Outside the stadium, plans include a 10,000-seat indoor arena, two smaller indoor sports pavilions, a rooftop pitch and running track, a swimming pool and a 500-seat theatre. There will also be a 120-room hotel and a 100-room residence for athletes or students. A shopping centre is part of the district too.

Financial Outlook and Timeline

Benfica expects €37 million in annual gross revenue, which would let the project pay for itself after 15 years. Licensing and paperwork are projected to tie up over the next few months, clearing the path for the first scheduled demolitions in June 2027.

• September 2026: Benfica submitted the final version to Lisbon's council, and the project remains under technical review.
• January 2027: The execution plan is due to be finalized.
• June 2027: Construction is scheduled to begin, running about two years.
• Late 2029: The official inauguration is planned, in time for the 2030 World Cup.

The plan keeps the existing bowl but adds capacity, new facilities and a year-round destination around it. 

Benfica to battle FC Porto for Salzburg midfielder

Benfica have reignited their pursuit of Red Bull Salzburg’s rising midfield star, Bartosz Mazurek. The Eagles previously tracked the 19-year-old Polish international before his summer move to Austria, but securing his signature now means navigating a major domestic transfer war.

Arch-rivals FC Porto are also pushing hard for the youngster. Porto’s president, Andre Villas-Boas, has publicly acknowledged his club's continuous monitoring of the midfielder. Meanwhile, Premier League outfit Brighton are closely watching developments.

Mazurek originally developed through the youth ranks of Warmia Grajewo before moving to Jagiellonia Bialystok, where his professional career truly took flight. He completed a €6 million move to Salzburg in July of this past summer.

The midfielder's verified statistics reflect rapid growth across both seasons:

• 2025–26 Season (Jagiellonia Bialystok): 1 goal and 3 assists across 23 domestic appearances.

• 2026–27 Season (Red Bull Salzburg): 1 goal and 3 assists in 8 Austrian Bundesliga matches so far. 

With a contract running until 2031, Salzburg stand firm on their prized asset. However, a massive transfer battle between the two Portuguese giants remains highly likely. 

Benfica return after layoff with a flurry of games

Benfica is back! Following the international break, the Portuguese giants return to domestic and continental action with a grueling schedule. Over the next three weeks, the Eagles face a flurry of high-stakes matches across multiple competitions, testing squad depth to the absolute limit.

With pressure building in both Portuguese League and the Europa League, every single point is crucial. Fans can expect intense drama as Benfica navigates home advantages and tough road trips.

Here is the full list of competitive games scheduled for Benfica over the next three weeks: 

October 11/26 - Guimaraes (Home - League)

October 15/26 - Celtic (Home - Europa)

October 22/26 - Omonia (Away - Europa)

October 26/26 - Santa Clara (Away - League)

October 29/26 - Gil Vicente (Home- League Cup) 

The marathon begins tomorrow and Benfica will be looking for a perfect run. 

Benfica maintains interest in Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul

Portuguese club Benfica remain firmly interested in signing French forward Esteban Lepaul from Ligue 1 side Rennes. The Lisbon club is pushing hard to reinforce its attacking frontline with the dynamic 26-year-old goalscorer, though they face fierce competition across the continent from clubs like Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

Lens Demands Hefty Asking Fee 

Prized as one of French football's hottest attacking properties, the Ligue 1 outfit holds significant leverage in potential negotiations. With the clinical striker securely under contract until June 2030, the French club has reportedly demanded a transfer fee between €50 million and €60 million before considering any departure this upcoming winter window.

Lethal Form Across Both Seasons

The marksman's market value has surged following consistently prolific campaigns in front of goal:

• Last Season: Delivered a sensational breakout campaign, netting 20 goals in 35 appearances across all competitions.
• This Season: Has maintained his lethal touch in the final third, already tallying 3 goals in 6 matches. 

Benfica must decide whether to meet this high valuation to seal a primary attacking option while setting an all-time record on the acquisition of a player at that price target who in the past two weeks has made his France national team debut. 

Benfica hold breathe on Sudakov injury

Benfica attacking midfielder Georgiy Sudakov limped off in tears while in action for Ukraine with an apparent ankle injury. Benfica is now sweating over the seriousness of the injury with the player to undergo medical tests.

The 24-year-old midfielder was forced off in the 68th minute of Ukraine’s 3-0 Nations League defeat against Northern Ireland. The incident occurred following a heavy touchline challenge from defender Brodie Spencer. Sudakov attempted to play through the pain but ultimately left the pitch in visible distress.

 

Fears of a Serious Layoff

While an official diagnosis is pending, team-mate Eduard Sarapiy revealed that Sudakov himself fears the injury could be serious. Sudakov seemed to trap his right foot on the play, pointing toward a possible ankle sprain that could sideline him for several weeks. 

The midfielder has officially left the Ukraine camp to return to Portugal, with the timing of the injury incredibly awkward for Benfica manager Marco Silva who faces a tactical headache if further tests confirm an extended absence for Sudakov.

Who is new Benfica defender Clement Lenglet

Portuguese giants Benfica completed the signing of French center-back Clement Lenglet from Atletico Madrid during the summer. The deal is structured as a one-season loan that triggers a mandatory contract extension, securing the defender in Lisbon until June 2029.

Born in Beauvais, France, the 31-year-old originally developed his talents within the AS Nancy youth academy. Lenglet brings a wealth of elite European experience to Portugal, having previously played for Nancy, Sevilla, Barcelona, Tottenham, Aston Villa and Atletico.

Benfica manager Marco Silva targeted the veteran Frenchman to reinforce the backline following the departure of captain Nicolas Otamendi. During the 2025–26 season with Atletico, Lenglet made 24 appearances (21 starts) across all competitions, recording one assist, seven yellow cards and one red card. 

Lenglet expressed immense pride in joining the project at Benfica and is eager to fight for silverware at his new home. 

Who is new Benfica midfielder Joao Palhinha

The Portuguese midfield general has officially come home. Joao Palhinha, the 31-year-old defensive powerhouse born in Lisbon, Portugal, completed a highly anticipated transfer to Benfica, signing a contract that keeps him at the Estadio da Luz until 2030.

Palhinha’s football journey is deeply rooted in the Portuguese capital. He began his senior career at rival academy Sporting, sharpening his elite defensive instincts through crucial development loans at Moreirense, Belenenses and Braga. Upon returning to Sporting, he anchored the midfield to secure the 2020–21 Portuguese League title.

 

His stellar domestic form earned him a £20 million move to the Premier League with Fulham in the summer of 2022, where he famously led the league's tackling statistics. Palhinha later brought his ball winning masterclasses to European giants Bayern Munich in 2024, helping them lift a Bundesliga title, before a subsequent loan spell to Tottenham. 

Now back where it all started, Palhinha is visibly thrilled to represent the Eagles. Expressing immense joy about returning to Portugal, he shared that nothing makes him happier than fighting for major silverware while celebrating those victories close to his family.

Benfica's Next Golden Generation - 5 Academy prodigies ready for the Big Stage

Benfica is globally renowned for its world-class talent factory and the next wave of elite prospects at the Benfica Campus is already generating massive excitement. With former academy stars now shining across Europe, these five teenagers are primed to become the club’s next multi-million-euro success stories.

Goncalo Moreira: The Creative Engine 

• Current Club & Level: Benfica B (Reserve Team, 2nd Division) / First-Team Fringe.

• The jewel of the reserve squad, Moreira is a dynamic attacking midfielder who claimed the Liga 2 Best Young Player award. While his primary home is leading the line for the B-team, he is actively on the fringe of the senior squad, gaining valuable first-team minutes in domestic league matches and Europa League qualifiers.

Anisio Cabral: The Lethal Number Nine 

•  Current Club & Level: Benfica (First Team / Senior Squad).

• Recognized internationally on Goal’s NXGN list of the world’s top teenage wonder kids, Cabral is a natural-born finisher. At just 18, his predatory instincts have earned him a permanent promotion to Marco Silva's senior first-team squad, where he has yet to feature this season off the bench in the top-flight.
  
   

Joao Veloso: The Midfield Orchestrator

• Current Club & Level: Moreirense (On Loan, First Team / 1st Division).

• Veloso is an elegant central midfielder who dictates the tempo of matches with flawless passing. To accelerate his growth at the highest tier of Portuguese senior football, Benfica sent him out on a season-long loan to top-flight side Moreirense, where he is gaining vital top-tier starting experience and has chipped in a goal and assist so far this season.

Daniel Banjaqui: The Flying Full-Back 

• Current Club & Level: Benfica (First Team / Senior Squad).

• Banjaqui represents the blueprint of the modern right-back. Having crafted his development through the club's academy, the 18-year-old has broken into Benfica's senior starting XI due to injuries, recently turning heads with a full 90-minute masterclass in a 2–0 Europa League win away against AC Milan. 

Jose Neto: The Defensive Prodigy 

• Current Club & Level: Benfica B (Reserve Team, 2nd Division) / First-Team Fringe.

• Rounding out the defense, Neto is a mature left-back who made his senior debut at just 17. He splits his time splitting duties between starring heavily for Benfica B in the second division and serving as the primary senior-squad depth piece for domestic cup competitions.

The Future of the Eagles 

 

As these five prodigies continue their rapid trajectory through the loan system, reserve ranks and senior squad. Benfica looks perfectly positioned to sustain its reputation as football's premier developmental powerhouse.  

European Giants are tracking Benfica center back Toma Araujo

 

Benfica center-back Tomas Araujo has emerged as a top defensive target for both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. The highly-rated 24-year-old Portuguese international's versatile ability to slot into central defense or play at right-back has attracted serious interest from Europe’s elite clubs as they look to reinforce their back lines.

Impressive Form and Stats

Araujo enjoyed a stellar campaigns with the Lisbon side. Through last season, the defender made 39 appearances across all competitions, including nine critical matches in the UEFA Champions League. Showing his technical capability at both ends of the pitch, he registered one goal and two assists while anchoring Benfica’s defense with a commanding 89% passing accuracy.

 

Benfica’s Firm Transfer Stance

Despite mounting pressure from abroad, Benfica remains in a strong negotiating position. Araujo is tied to a long-term contract extension that runs until June 2031. Consequently, the Portuguese Giants have established a firm stance, demanding a fee of around €40 million before they will consider parting ways with their prized defensive jewel. 

Benfica make a statement in opening Europa League game

Benfica delivered a massive statement of intent on Wednesday night, securing a commanding 2-0 victory against Italian giants AC Milan right in their own backyard at the iconic San Siro. The opening match for both clubs in the UEFA Europa League, league phase belonged entirely to the clinical visitors, who silenced a passionate Italian crowd with a tactical masterclass.

Lukebakio Opens the Scoring

From the opening whistle, Benfica refused to be intimidated by the daunting atmosphere. The breakthrough came early in the 16th minute. Seizing an opportunity on the right wing from a Jakub Kaminski pass, Belgian international Dodi Lukebakio cut sharply inside onto his left foot, while displaying immense composure, he curled a brilliant, low strike past Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan into the far bottom corner to put the Portuguese side ahead.

Ruben Amorim’s heavily rotated Milan side struggled to string an immediate response together before the interval. Despite generating territory and a series of corners, the Rossoneri lacked the precise final touch required to breach Anatoliy Trubin’s resolute goal.

Midfield Pivot Stifles Milan

A key pillar of Benfica’s flawless performance was their tactical setup in the middle of the pitch. Marco Silva’s double pivot, comprising the disciplined Joao Palhinha and the industrious Fredrik Aursnes, completely nullified Milan's tactical engine. By maintaining rigid structural spacing, the duo effectively cut off the passing lanes to Milan’s creative sparks, Omari Hutchinson and Alphadjo Cisse. 

When Milan attempted to transition quickly, Palhinha acted as a screen to absorb the pressure, allowing the backline to reset seamlessly. Aursnes excelled in turning over possession, transitioning the ball swiftly into the half-spaces for Georgiy Sudakov to exploit, leaving Milan’s midfield pairing of Yunus Musah and Ardon Jashari utterly chasing shadows.

Kaminski Seals It Early in the Second Half 

Amorim turned to his bench at halftime, introducing Christian Pulisic to ignite the attack. However, just as Milan began to find their rhythm, Benfica struck a decisive knockout blow in the 53rd minute. Slick build-up play down the left flank allowed left-back Souffian El Karouani to fire a sharp, low cross into the heart of the penalty area. Timing his run perfectly, Jakub Kaminski ghosted past his marker and met the ball with a ferocious first-time strike, blasting it into the roof of the net to silence the home crowd.

A Historic New Dawn 

The second goal took the wind out of Milan's sails. While Pulisic tested Trubin with two late efforts, Benfica’s disciplined defense comfortably absorbed the remaining pressure to secure a historic clean sheet and start their Europa League with a very important victory. 

Ultimately, this tactical masterclass cements Benfica as immediate frontrunners in the UEFA Europa League league phase. Marco Silva out maneuvered Ruben Amorim in every department, proving that his tactical framework can dismantle Europe's elite away from home. For Milan, it is a bitter wake-up call, but for Benfica, it is the perfect launchpad for what could be a thrilling European campaign.

Benfica to kick off Europa League campaign on Wednesday

Benfica officially kicks off its highly anticipated UEFA Europa League campaign this Wednesday with a blockbuster away fixture against Italian powerhouse AC Milan at the iconic San Siro.

The Oddsmakers' Verdict

Marco Silva’s men enter the league phase in breathtaking form, riding a seven-match winning streak across all competitions. While the Rossoneri hold a slight edge as match-day favourites on home turf, oddsmakers view the Portuguese side as a formidable dark horse. Major bookmakers currently place Benfica's outright title-winning odds around 16-1 to 18-1, positioning them just behind top-tier contenders. Statistically, advanced analytical models award the Eagles a 13.6% probability of hoisting the trophy at the tournament's end.

Key Benfica Players to Watch

Vangelis Pavlidis - The Greek international striker is the undisputed focal point of the Eagles' lethal attack. Known for his intelligent movement off the ball and ruthless finishing inside the box, his ability to convert half-chances will be critical against rigid Europa League clubs.

Andreas Schjelderup - Operating as a dynamic force in the attacking line, the Norwegian prodigy brings immense creativity and flair out wide. His technical ability, sharp acceleration, and eye for a decisive pass have made him a locking fixture in the final third.

Clement Lenglet - Anchoring the backline, the veteran French international defender has firmly established himself as a leader in Benfica's back four. His structural discipline, defensive reading of the game and elite ball-distribution from the back provide the stability required to survive intense European nights. 

What Fans Can Expect

Supporters can expect an incredibly ambitious, high-octane continental run. Benfica's recent clinical attacking form promises an entertaining brand of football. Fans should brace for a highly competitive league phase as the Eagles aim for a top-eight finish to secure direct knockout qualification in the competition.

 

Benfica and winger Bruma set to agree to rescind contract

Portuguese winger Bruma is close to reaching an agreement with Benfica to mutually terminate his contract, paving the way for a return to Greek football.

The 31-year-old forward, who originally signed with the Eagles from Braga in February 2025 for a fee of €6.5 million, was contractually bound to the club until June 2028. However, his stint at the Estadio da Luz was severely hindered by a devastating Achilles tendon rupture that kept him sidelined for the majority of the 2025/2026 campaign.

Following his recovery, Bruma found himself excluded from the first-team squad under manager Marco Silva, who made it clear that the player was no longer part of his upcoming technical plans. Eager to revitalize his career, the veteran attacker has chosen to sever ties with the Lisbon club early. With Greece’s transfer window closing quickly, Super League club Aris Thessaloniki has emerged as his primary destination. 

Bruma is no stranger to the country, having previously won a domestic league title during a highly successful loan spell with Olympiacos. Bruma appeared in only 17 games across all competitions, scoring one goal in and providing two helpers in 784 minutes.

It's time Marco Silva insert Schjelderup into the starting lineup

For Benfica head coach Marco Silva, maximizing structural balance means shifting away from Georgiy Sudakov to start Andreas Schjelderup. While Sudakov brings immense ball-retention talent as a central playmaker, his tendency to drop deep often crowds the midfield and slows transitions.

The Tactical Blueprint: Schjelderup on the Left  

To optimize Silva’s high-risk, high-reward attacking system, Schjelderup needs to be given the nod. The Norwegian is a natural left winger. Deployed wide left, he stretches the pitch, isolates fullbacks, and cuts inside with deadly verticality.
 

The Wing Connection: Unlocking Prestianni

Crucially, starting Schjelderup unlocks an electrifying connection with Gianluca Prestianni. Prestianni, operating dynamically as the inverted right winger, thrives when given space to switch play and drift centrally. By pulling the opposition's defensive lines apart from the flanks, Schjelderup keeps the defensive block stretched. This allows Prestianni the freedom to overload the final third and feed the strikers. 

The Final Piece: Rafa Silva in the Pocket 

Completing this tactical fluid framework, Rafa Silva slots perfectly into his optimal position as an elite second striker or attacking central number ten. Playing in the pocket behind the primary striker, Rafa uses his blistering acceleration to exploit the massive gaps created by Schjelderup and Prestianni’s wide movements. 

For Marco Silva, starting Schjelderup isn’t just a personnel swap; it is the key to making the Eagles' attack even more potent.

Benfica's Summer 2026 Transfer Recap

Benfica completed a highly profitable squad restructuring during the summer 2026 transfer window, balancing elite incoming talent with lucrative player sales.

Strategic Arrivals 

The Portuguese giants heavily reinforced their midfield and defensive ranks. Benfica secured midfielder Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich for €14 million, while Italian defender Alessandro Circati arrived from Parma in an €18 million deal. Looking to add creative spark, Jakub Kaminski joined from Cologne for €17 million while defensive midfielder Enzo Barrenechea was purchased from Aston Villa for €12 million and Georgiy Sudakov was bought from Shakhtar Donetsk for €20.25 million.

Benfica also added depth through the transfer of center-back Gabriel Indio for €4 million. On the loan front, the Eagles negotiated a high-profile season-long loan deal for Al-Nassr striker Jhon Duran who cost the club €6.2 million, alongside veteran defender Clement Lenglet from Atletico de Madrid. In the past twenty-four hours the club also added attacking midfielder Claudio Echeverri from Manchester City and left back Souffian El Karouani arrived from Al-Qadisiyah on season-long loans with options to buy.

Major Departures

Benfica's outgoing business generated massive revenue this summer. Newcastle United signed defender Amar Dedic for a staggering €35.9 million and Premier League side Bournemouth secured center-back Antonio Silva for €25 million. Sidney Cabral moved to Trabzonspor for €7 million.

Furthermore, midfielder Orkun Kokcu had his loan move to Besiktas made permanent for a €30 million fee, as did Florentino who brought in €25 million from his permanent move to Burnley. Gustavo Marques added an additional €3.5 million from RB Bragantino. 

The club also streamlined the squad, sending out left back Rafa Obrador (Sassuolo), winger, Tiago Gouveia (Genclerbirligi) and striker Franjo Ivanovic (Lens €2.5M) out on season-long development loans. Joining them in a loan move the past twenty four hours was midfielder Richard Rios (Al-Ittihad €4M).

Eagle Eyed Business

As the transfer window gets set to close, Benfica go into the season with a surplus in moves of €37.05 million which will come in handy with the club missing out on this seasons lucrative Champions League purse. The club will still compete in Europe but in the much less profitable Europa League campaign.

Benfica looking to make moves as window gets set to close

As the summer transfer window prepares to slam shut, SL Benfica is racing against the clock. Club president Rui Costa has acknowledged that the squad is not yet finalized. Under new manager Marco Silva, the Portuguese giants are orchestrating key final maneuvers to perfect their roster.

The Target Arrivals 

Benfica is heavily prioritizing creative midfield reinforcement before tomorrow's deadline. Negotiations are rapidly progressing with Manchester City to secure a loan deal for attacking midfielder Claudio Echeverri. The 20-year-old Argentine playmaker is highly sought after to add attacking flair to the squad. Additionally, Benfica has explored a move for Almeria's Sergio Arribas and has also been linked with a late push for Wolves defender Hugo Bueno. The club is also close to announcing the acquisition of left back Souffian El Karouani. These potential additions follow the major permanent signings of Joao Palhinha and defender Alessandro Circati earlier in the month.

Potential Departures 

To balance the books and streamline the squad, several exits are also being mapped out. Midfielder Richard Rios is the subject of heavy interest from English side Hull City, who submitted a €30 million opening bid. Ríos is reportedly eager for a Premier League move. There are also indications that goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin could be moved on if a suitable offer materializes. The club is also listening to offers for winger Dodi Lukebakio. Meanwhile, the club has fought off interest for winger Andreas Schjelderup, with Silva viewing him as essential for the campaign ahead. 

Although the Portuguese League window closes on September 15, the majority of leagues will be closing in the next 96 hours. Benfica's hierarchy faces intense pressure to lock down these crucial incoming and outgoing deals as they turn their attention to the season ahead. 

Benfica kick doors open into league phase of Europa League

 

Benfica have punched their ticket to the 2026/27 UEFA Europa League league phase following a dominant qualifying campaign.

The Road to the League Phase

The Portuguese side kicked off their European journey in the second qualifying round against Swiss club St. Gallen. Despite a tight 2–1 away loss in the first leg, Benfica roared back with a dominant 5–0 home victory at the Estadio da Luz to advance 6–2 on aggregate. 

In the third qualifying round, Benfica dismantled Scottish club Heart of Midlothian 7–2 on aggregate, fueled by a resounding 6–1 home victory. They followed up in the play-off round by eliminating Danish side AGF Aarhus 6–2 on aggregate, sealing their progression with a 3–1 away win in Denmark.

This marks Benfica's return to the competition since the 2023/24 season, where they reached the quarter-finals.

League Phase Schedule & Opponents 

Following the draw in Monaco, Benfica's eight unique opponents are set for the formatted 36-team single league phase. They will play four fixtures at home and four on the road. The dates and times of the games will be announced on the next few days with the competition commencing on September 16 or 17.

Benfica's opponents:

Home: AZ Alkmaar, Celtic, Lech Poznan, OFI Crete

Away: AC Milan, Viktoria Plzen, Omonia, NEC Nijmegen 

Strength of Schedule Analysis

Benfica face a highly manageable path with a trip to Italy to take on Ruben Amorim's AC Milan being the toughest game of the league phase on paper.

Benfica have a great opportunity to maximize points in front of their home fans with the schedule presented and will need to navigate their road fixtures. Odds makers have the club as 20-1 favourites to capture the Europa League crown which places them in ninth among the thirty-six entrants.

With a deeply talented squad and a highly favorable fixture list, the Eagles are well-equipped to make a deep run. This tournament represents the perfect stage for Benfica to reassert their status as a dominant force in European football.

Benfica turn to left back for their next reinforcement

Benfica have turned their full attention to landing a new left-back before the summer transfer window slams shut, immediately following their blockbuster signing of midfielder Joao Palhinha today. With the defensive midfield role securely reinforced by the €14 million acquisition from Bayern Munich, manager Marco Silva wants to add experienced depth at the left back position. The player should be able to provide a different style than current starting left back Samuel Dahl.

The Eagles have actively explored a sensational move for Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, weighing up a potential €20 million bid to pride him away from Spain. However, with a deal for Balde increasingly viewed as unlikely due to valuation gaps, Benfica are simultaneously keeping other options warm. The club is evaluating late market alternatives to ensure they bring in a robust competitor before the deadline passes.

One of the names that has popped up in the last 48 hours is Al-Qadsiah left back Souffian El Karouani who has been left out of match day squads due to the Saudi league having limits on foreign players dressed for league games. Al-Qadsiah are said to be open to a loan or permanent transfer of the player. This situation could present an ideal opportunity for Benfica to secure a player who logged a staggering 18 assists at Utrecht last season.

Currently, Benfica is relying on youth academy prospect Jose Neto to back up Dahl and although they also have Rafael Obrador on the books, he has been loaned out again for the season. Benfica manager Marco Silva is hoping that the club can bring in a quality back over the next couple of weeks. Could free agent Portuguese international Raphael Guerreiro's name enter the mix... we shall see.