Benfica shopping around left back Mihailo Ristic

In the world of football, player transfers are a common occurrence. Clubs are constantly looking to strengthen their squads and improve their chances of success. One such case is that of Benfica, who are reportedly shopping around for a new left back as Milahilo Ristic has fallen out of favor at the club.

Ristic, who joined Benfica in the summer of 2022 as a free agent from Montepellier, initially showed promise with his solid defensive performances and attacking contributions. However, over time, his form has dipped and he has struggled to find playing time even with current starter David Jurasek on the sideline due to injury.

As a result Benfica have begun actively shopping the left back with Spanish club Celta Vigo said to be interested in his services. Ristic has appeared in only twelve games with the club since arriving, scoring once while setting up another goal.

Benfica need to find a solution at left back

In the world of football, team selection plays a crucial role in determining the outcome of a match. The decision to play certain players out of position can often prove costly, as is the case with Benfica's choice to deploy midfielder Fredrik Aursnes at left back. This tactical move has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike, as it has resulted in a series of disappointing performances.

Traditionally, left back is a position that requires defensive prowess and an ability to provide attacking support down the flank. Unfortunately, Aursnes lacks the necessary skills and experience to excel in this role. His natural position is in midfield, where he can utilize his passing abilities and contribute to the team's attacking and defensive play.

The consequences of playing Aursnes at left back have been evident on the pitch. Benfica's attack from the left side has been non existent as the right footed Aursnes struggles to fill a role once held by Alex Grimaldo. Grimaldo's replacement David Jurasek did not last a game before going down with an injury that will not see him return until after the International break at the earliest.

Benfica's other left back option Mihailo Ristic looks to have lost the trust of manager Roger Schmidt, if he ever had it to begin with as Schmidt has refused to use Ristic at his natural position over Aursnes. This decision has caused the flank to be underutilized and it is imperative that the coaching staff reassess their tactics if they plan to have achieve success on the pitch over the next month or two.

Benfica open to moving Schjelderup for right price

Benfica's young winger Andreas Schjelderup wants to move from the Lisbon club after spending just half a season in which the 20 year old has played a mere three games. With the arrival of Angel di Maria and the expected return of Goncalo Guedes on loan from Wolves the youngster sees that continuing this season.

Schjelderup arrived from Nordsjaelland in January for €9M and is signed with the club until the summer of 2028, Benfica are looking for at least €15M to let the Norwegian depart but still want to keep a percentage of the players rights if they do so. The likely move that Schjelderup could expect is a loan away from the club for the season with AZ Alkmaar said to be interested.