Benfica need to make decision on Otamendi and Di Maria

Benfica's success at home and in Europe relies on smart decisions, especially when it comes to players whose contracts are about to end. Right now, they face a big choice about Nico Otamendi and Angel Di Maria. Both players are free agents soon, and how Benfica handles this will change their future.

Nico Otamendi has been a pillar in Benfica’s defense. His experience and leadership as the club's captain are clear on the pitch. Over recent seasons, he’s helped tighten the backline and organize the team’s defense.

Angel Di Maria, on the other hand, is a creative force. His ability to create scoring chances and make key passes has made him a fan favorite. Both players have been vital to Benfica’s success, but they also face questions about fitness and longevity as they get up their in age.

With both players reaching the twilight of their careers anything more then one year contracts would be foolish on the club's part and with Otamendi and Di Maria in no rush to sign new deals as they evaluate the next phase of their careers, Benfica will need to find the right solution that would benefit both the club and players.

Reports do indicate that Benfica is open to negotiating new one-year contracts with both players, who have appeared in a combined 436 games for the club across all competitions. The club particularly values their presence for the Club World Cup this summer, suggesting their experience and leadership are seen as assets for major competitions. 

Benfica have three games to seal the league

The Portuguese League season is winding down and Benfica and Sporting remain level at the top of Portugal's top tier with 75 points a piece with three league games remaining on the schedule.

The league title looks set to come down to next weekend's highly anticipated Lisbon Derby where these two rivals will go head to head in a game that is likely to determine who becomes the 2024-25 Portuguese Champion.

Benfica will host this all important encounter at their classic Estadio da Luz stadium where a sold out crowd is expected to cheer on the home side and provide the club with that extra boost as they look for the all important victory.

Benfica will have to first take on Estoril this weekend away from home before facing Sporting and then will conclude the season against Braga also on the road. Benfica control their own destiny as three victories in their final three games will capture the club's 39th title.

 

 

What Benfica needs to do to sign Nelson Semedo in the summer

Benfica has been linked multiple times over the past few months with a return to the club by former Seixal academy graduate Nelson Semedo who will become a free agent at the conclusion of the season. Benfica are looking to shore up the right back position and Semedo could be the ideal solution to a position that needs an upgrade.

Here’s an analysis of what it would take for Benfica to secure his signature.

Negotiate a Pre-Contract Agreement:

Since Semedo’s contract with Wolves expires on June 30, 2025, Benfica can already be in negotiations for a pre-contract agreement with the player before season's end, as permitted by FIFA regulations for players in the final six months of their contracts. This would secure Semedo’s commitment to join Benfica without a transfer fee. 

Address Salary Constraints:

A significant hurdle is Semedo’s current salary at Wolves, reportedly £80,000 per week, which exceeds Benfica’s financial structure. Benfica would need to convince Semedo to accept a substantial pay cut to fit within their wage budget. Alternatively, they could explore creative contract structures, such as performance-based bonuses or a signing-on fee, to make the deal more attractive. 

Leverage Emotional and Professional Appeal: 

Semedo has expressed a lifelong connection to Benfica, stating his dream is to retire at the club. Benfica should emphasize this emotional tie, highlighting the opportunity to return to his boyhood club, play in the UEFA Champions League, and potentially end his career in Lisbon. The presence of former Wolves manager Bruno Lage, who knows Semedo well, could also be a persuasive factor.

Compete with Other Interested Clubs:

Benfica faces competition from clubs like Inter Milan, who could offer Semedo a role as a deputy to Denzel Dumfries, and potentially lucrative deals from Saudi Arabian clubs. Benfica must present a compelling case, focusing on playing time, leadership opportunities (Semedo is Wolves’ captain), and the chance to play in Europe’s elite competitions, which Wolves cannot offer. 

Plan for Squad Integration:

Benfica should assess how Semedo fits into their tactical setup under Bruno Lage, particularly as a solution for the right-back position. Portuguese media highlight Semedo’s experience, leadership, and versatility (ability to play on the left) as key strengths, making him a “perfect” fit. Ensuring a clear role for him, potentially as a starter, will be crucial to finalize the deal. 

Monitor Wolves’ Retention Efforts:

Wolves’ manager Vitor Pereira has expressed a desire to keep Semedo and there is some openness from Semedo to stay. Benfica should stay informed on any contract extension talks between Wolves and Semedo, as Wolves may try to retain him, especially given his importance as captain and his consistent performances. If Wolves fail to secure an extension, Benfica’s chances improve. 

By focusing on these steps - early negotiations, salary adjustments, leveraging Semedo’s emotional ties, outmaneuvering competitors, ensuring squad fit, and tracking Wolves’ moves—Benfica can maximize their chances of signing Nelson Semedo as a free agent in the summer of 2025.