Who is new Benfica midfielder Georgiy Sudakov

Georgiy Sudakov, the 23-year-old Ukrainian attacking midfielder, has quickly become one of Europe's most exciting talents. Born on September 1, 2002, Sudakov's blend of vision, dribbling, and goal-scoring prowess has drawn comparisons to top playmakers. This summer, on August 30, 2025, he made a high-profile move from Shakhtar Donetsk to Benfica on a loan deal with an obligation to buy. 

The transfer includes a €6.75 million loan fee, €20.25 million for the permanent switch and up to €5 million in add-ons, potentially totaling €32 million, which would become a record signing for Benfica, while Shakhtar would retain 25% of his rights towards a future sale.

Sudakov's career began in Ukraine's youth systems, joining Sokil Brianka (2013–2014) and Metalist Kharkiv (2014–2017) before entering Shakhtar's academy in 2017.

He debuted for Shakhtar's senior team in 2020 and had amassed 148 appearances across all competitions, scoring 35 goals while providing 26 helpers.

Since joining Benfica, Sudakov has hit the ground running, scoring 2 goals in 5 league games and totaling 7 appearances with 2 goals and an assist up to this months international break.

His arrival bolsters Benfica's attack, especially after a challenging start to the season. Fans are buzzing about his potential to shine in the Portuguese League and Europe. With Ukraine's national team duties adding to his profile, Sudakov's Benfica chapter should provide fireworks as he looks to grow his pedigree. 

 

Could Benfica members elect a new President later this month?

With the Benfica Presidential elections less than 3 weeks away on October 25 a surprise candidate has taken the lead in polls as Joao Noronha Lopes currently sits at around 40% of the popular vote taken, while incumbent President Rui Costa sits with around 31% of the popular vote as the election comes down to the wire.

Benfica club regulations state that the elected President requires 50% of the popular vote before they can be named President of the club, so if no candidate reaches that mark on the 25th, than there will be a run off between the top two vote getters.

Noronha Lopes has become very popular with the younger members of the club who are looking for a new direction and a clean break from the Luis Filipe Vieira era. While older voters and those less likely to answer polls lean towards Rui Costa continuing as the clubs head.

Speaking of Luis Filipe Vieira, it looks like club members have had enough of the former Benfica President as based on poll results he sits a distance fourth with under 10% of the popular vote. Now what would a change at the top mean for newly appointed manager Jose Mourinho? I guess we will have to wait for election day to find out. 

Classico ends the same way it begins at the Dragao

In a tense O Classico at Estadio do Dragao, Benfica and FC Porto battled to a goalless draw on the eve of the international break, with Porto's seven game league winning streak being halted by their former manager Jose Mourinho.

Benfica delivered a defensive masterclass that frustrated Porto but left a lot to be desired in a game that lacked much flair even though it was a highly intense affair that saw eight yellow cards issued amid heated exchanges between the players. 

The Porto faithful pelted the field with objects, many aimed at former club manager Mourinho, while they branded signs in the stands showing their disdain with his choice to join their rivals.

Porto held possession for the majority of the game but managed only two shots on target, doubling Benfica's one.

The first half was sluggish and foul-ridden, with no shots on goal until Georgiy Sudakov's 30th minute strike was palmed away by Diogo Costa. While Porto's Rodrigo Mora almost stole all three points in the second half, when his stoppage time curl rattled the crossbar. 

Porto remains in top spot after eight weeks of action, four points ahead of third place Benfica who have yet to find their groove under Mourinho's guidance. Benfica will return to action on the 17th of the month when they enter the 3rd round of the Taca de Portugal against Chaves.