Bruno Lage makes triumphant return to Benfica

Benfica fans were treated to an electrifying performance in Bruno Lage’s first match back in charge. After an unexpected setback just 20 seconds into the game against Santa Clara, the team rallied to secure a convincing 4-1 victory. This match wasn’t just a win; it was a statement showcasing Benfica’s attacking prowess and depth.

From the kickoff, it felt like the game belonged to Santa Clara. They shocked everyone by scoring almost immediately, catching Benfica off guard. But instead of crumbling under the pressure, Benfica showed resilience. It was like being punched in the gut but getting back up with even more determination. This early hiccup proved to be a turning point, igniting a fire within the players.

Once Benfica settled into their rhythm, the tide quickly shifted. The players unleashed a wave of attacking football that left Santa Clara scrambling. It was a display of skill and strategy, demonstrating why Benfica is one of the powerhouses in Portuguese football. Each passing minute saw Benfica grow in confidence, pushing forward with purpose.

Newly signed Turkish winger Kerem Akturkglou brought the game level with his first ever marker for Benfica, it was followed by a Florentino goal, yes Florentino and defender Antonio Silva chipped to start the second half before Angel di Maria sealed the win with 32 minutes left in the game with a beautiful chip shot.

Bruno Lage's tactical approach was evident. The players adapted quickly, exploiting Santa Clara’s weaknesses. Their movement off the ball created space and opportunities. It’s like watching chess pieces maneuver, each strategic move leading to a checkmate. Lage’s understanding of the game allowed Benfica to shift gears and control the tempo, turning the match into a relentless onslaught.

The atmosphere at the Estádio da Luz was electric. Fans cheered, sang, and celebrated every pass and strike. It was a reminder of why football is often called the beautiful game. The connection between the players and the supporters created an unforgettable experience, transforming the stadium into a fortress. With each goal, the belief in Lage’s comeback grew stronger.

Next up for Benfica is Red Star Belgrade, as the club gets set to kick off the newly formatted Champions League campaign in Serbia on Thursday.
 

Bruno Lage has a plan for Fredrik Aursnes

Frederik Aursnes has become a player that many football fans are keen to watch, and for good reason. Under former head coach Roger Schmidt, Aursnes showcased his skills in various positions on the field, making a significant impact. Now, with Bruno Lage at the helm, Aursnes is ready for a new chapter that promises to be just as exciting.

When Roger Schmidt took charge at Benfica, he saw something unique in Frederik Aursnes. Instead of confining the midfielder to just one spot, Schmidt shifted Aursnes around to exploit his versatility. Aursnes played as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, and even filled in on the wing. This allowed him to contribute in multiple ways, helping the team adapt to different challenges on the pitch.

Using Aursnes in various roles gave the team a tactical advantage. Why limit a player with so much potential? Schmidt understood that by experimenting, he could unleash Aursnes’ creativity and energy, turning him into a key asset. Whether breaking up opposition plays or launching fast counter-attacks, Aursnes thrived under this fluid system.

With the arrival of Bruno Lage, fans wonder how Aursnes will fit into the new game plan. Lage is known for his structured approach to football, focusing on solid formations and clear tactical roles. Even though his style differs from Schmidt’s flexible tactics, Lage recognizes Aursnes' capabilities and has plans to maximize them.

By putting Aursnes in a slightly more defined role, Lage aims to create a balance between structure and creativity. He’s likely to utilize Aursnes in midfield, where he can orchestrate the play while still having the freedom to make those dynamic runs. Picture a conductor leading an orchestra—Aursnes can set the rhythm while also producing stunning solos.

As we look ahead, it’s clear that both Schmidt and Lage recognized the potential in Frederik Aursnes. His adaptability is a treasure for any coach. Fans should keep an eye on him this season, as he may just surprise everyone with his growth under Lage. The combination of tactical awareness and raw skill could elevate Aursnes to new heights.

Bruno Lage will have full squad Thursday

Bruno Lage's journey as the new manager is about to hit a pivotal point. After navigating the international break, he’s set to hold his first full squad practice. This moment is more than just a routine training session; it’s a fresh start and a chance to build momentum.

When a manager gets to work with all his players at once, it’s akin to assembling the pieces of a puzzle. Each player has a unique role, and understanding how they fit together is vital. Bruno Lage will have the opportunity to assess his team’s strengths and weaknesses firsthand. This isn’t just about drills; it’s about forming connections and strategies.

One of the first things Lage will be keen to check is the fitness levels of his players. After a break, injury concerns often loom large, and knowing who’s ready to roll is crucial. Players coming back from international duty are like new signings; they could bring fresh ideas and energy. Lage will want to look closely at their form to put together the best strategies moving forward.

With as little as 48 hours to prepare his squad to face Santa Clara once they arrive. This practice session will also act as a testing ground for tactics. Does a player excel in a particular formation? Is there someone who leads well on the pitch? Lage will gather valuable insights that will help him build a competitive edge. 

Engaging in exercises that encourage teamwork can help turn a group of individuals into a cohesive unit. When players feel connected, they’re more likely to put in the extra effort for each other, making a world of difference on match day.

As Bruno Lage steps into his first full squad practice, there’s a mix of excitement and anticipation in the air. The transition out of the international break is the perfect moment to ignite passion and commitment. With the right approach, Lage can transform potential into success as he looks to get Benfica back on track this season.

The most expensive Benfica departures of all time

Benfica, one of Portugal’s top football clubs, has a knack for spotting and developing talent. Over the years, this ability has turned into substantial profits from player sales. Let’s take a closer look at the most expensive transfers in Benfica's history, highlighting how players like Joao Felix, Enzo Fernandez, and Darwin Nunez have become synonymous with big money in the football world.

In the summer of 2019, Joao Felix became the subject of much excitement when he transferred to Atletico Madrid for a staggering €126 million. This deal not only marked the highest transfer in Benfica's history but also showcased the club's talent development capabilities.

Felix lit up the Portuguese league with his dazzling skills, earning comparisons to some of football’s greats. His capability to navigate tight spaces and score stunning goals made him a hot commodity. So, what makes a player worth such a hefty price tag? It’s all about potential, and Benfica saw that in Felix. His success story is a perfect testament to the club's vision in nurturing young talents. 

Another standout in Benfica’s transfer saga is Enzo Fernandez. The Argentine midfielder made headlines when he transferred to Chelsea for around €121 million in January 2023. His playmaking abilities and tactical understanding of the game made him a vital player for Benfica, drawing attention from top clubs in Europe.

Fernandez’s journey from Argentina to Portugal and finally to one of the biggest leagues in the world is an inspiring tale. He was much more than just a player; he was the heartbeat of Benfica’s midfield, controlling the tempo and dictating the flow of the game. When a player can do that, it's no surprise that clubs are willing to pay a premium.

Next up is Darwin Nunez, who hit the ground running and didn't look back. In June 2022, he transferred to Liverpool for a fee that could potentially rise to €100 million. Nunez had been a goal-scoring sensation for Benfica, showcasing his incredible speed and finishing skills.

His rise through the ranks is a classic story of hard work paying off. With each goal, his value soared, and Benfica capitalized on that. Underlining the importance of having a strong striking option? Just look at how quickly clubs vying for silverware scrambled to secure his services. 

While Felix, Fernandez, and Nunez take the top spots, they’re not the only stars that Benfica has sold for significant sums. Players like Ruben Dias (to Manchester City for €71.6 million), Goncalo Ramos (to PSG for €65 million), Joao Neves (to PSG for €59.9 million) and Ederson (to Manchester City for €40 million) also highlight the club's success in developing elite talent.

These transfers not only boost Benfica's financial standing but also reinforce their reputation in the football world as a breeding ground for future stars. Every transfer tells a story of dreams realized, and Benfica has been the launchpad for so many.

The Top 25 most expensive Benfica transfer departures:

    1- Joao Felix to Atletico Madrid for €126M (2019)

    2- Enzo Fernandez to Chelsea for €121M (2023)

    3- Darwin Nunez to Liverpool for €85M (2022)

    4- Ruben Dias to Manchester City for €71.6M (2020)

    5- Goncalo Ramos to PSG for €65M (2023)

    6- Joao Neves to PSG for €59.9M (2024)

    7- Ederson to Manchester City for €40M (2017)

    8- Marcos Leonardo to Al-Hilal for €40M (2024)

    9- Axel Witsel to Zenit St. Petersburg for €40M (2012)

    10- Raul Jiminez to Wolverhampton for €38M (2019)

    11- Nelson Semedo to Barcelona for €35.7M (2012)

    12- Renato Sanches to Bayern Munich for €35M (2016)

    13- Victor Lindelof to Manchester United for €35M (2017)

    14- Angel di Maria to Real Madrid for €33M (2010)

    15- Fabio Coentrao to Real Madrid for €30M (2011)

    16- Goncalo Guedes to PSG for €30M (2017)

    17- Rodrigo to Valencia for €30M (2015)

    18- David Neres to Napoli for €28M (2024)

    19- Nico Gaitan to Atletico Madrid for €25M (2016)

    20- David Luiz to Chelsea for €25M (2011)

    21- Enzo Perez to Valencia for €25M (2015)

    22- Lazar Markovic to Liverpool for €25M (2014)

    23- Nemanja Matic to Chelsea for €25M (2014)

    24- Raul de Tomas to Espanyol for €22.5M (2020)

    25- Luka Jovic to Eintracht Frankfurt for €22.3M (2019)

Rui Costa makes risky move in bringing back Bruno Lage

 

In a surprising move, Rui Costa has decided to bring back Bruno Lage as the manager of Benfica. Many fans are left scratching their heads and asking, "Why now?" The decision has brought a mix of excitement and skepticism among supporters and analysts alike.

Bruno Lage previously managed Benfica departing after the 2019-20 season and had some success, capturing the Portuguese League title in 2018-19 and the Super Cup in 2019. His last season though was marred by inconsistency, and many questioned his ability to handle the pressure. Bringing him back seems like rolling the dice. The team needs stability, not a return to uncertainty.

The reappointment raises questions about Benfica’s direction. Will Lage be able to implement his vision effectively this time? Benfica is a storied club with high expectations. They need a leader who not only understands the game but can also inspire confidence and resilience among players.

Rui Costa may just have put his presidency on the line with a move to a manager who has had no success after departing the club. His stints at Wolverhampton and Botafogo saw him go from 2.17 points per match with Benfica, to 1.27 combined between both clubs. 

Fans are anxious to see results quickly. With the season already underway, there's little room for error. If Lage doesn't deliver, the blame will fall on Costa for the decision to bring him back, stirring up even more controversy.

As Benfica moves forward, it’s essential to recognize the challenges that await. The team needs to gel quickly under Lage's reins. The clock is already ticking and every match counts after dropping five points in their first four league games. Bruno Lage will have to step up and prove that this was the right decision.

Rui Costa’s gamble on Bruno Lage is a double-edged sword. If it pays off, it could propel Benfica back to glory. But if it backfires, the repercussions could be severe. Only time will tell whether this move cements Costa's legacy or leads to deeper challenges for the club.

The Ins and Outs of this summers transfer window

The summer transfer window has officially closed in Portugal and Benfica have seen a lot of changes during this window. The club does seem weaker then previous years and are currently without a coach after the departure of Roger Schmidt just a few days ago.

Benfica hauled in an impressive €142.9M in player sales while spending €53.5M to improve the squad. Here is the moves the club has completed since the end of last season.

 Updated Sept. 4/24

Departures 

Joao Neves to PSG for €59.9M 

Marcos Leonardo to Al-Hilal for €40M

David Neres to Napoli for €28M

Morato to Nottingham Forest for €11M

Paulo Bernardo to Celtic for €4M

Casper Tengstedt loaned to Hellas Verona

Henrique Araujo loaned to Arouca

Martin Neto loaned to Rio Ave

Rafa Silva to Besiktas on free transfer

Tiago Dantas to NK Osijek on free transfer

Joao Mario loaned to Besiktas

 

Arrivals

Vangelis Pavlidis from AZ Alkmaar for €18M

Kerem Akturkglou from Galatasaray for €12M

Benjamin Rollheiser from Estudiantes for €9.5M

Jan-Niklas Beste from Heidenheim for €8M

Alvaro Carreras from Man United for €6M

Issa Kabore on loan from Man City

Zeki Amdouni on loan from Burnley

Renato Sanches on loan from PSG

Leonardo Barreiro from Mainz on free transfer

 

Benfica's Champions League expedition... from Munich to Turin

The new Champions League format is set to kick off just after the half way mark of September and Benfica have found out their eight game schedule in the league phase of the competition. Clubs will now play four games at home and four games away against eight different clubs with the Top eight in the standings moving into the round of 16, while positions 9-24 will go into a two leg playoff to earn a spot in that round.

Benfica Champions League schedule:

Sep. 19/24 at Red Star Belgrade

Oct.   2/24 vs Atletico Madrid

Oct.  23/24 vs Feyenoord

Nov.   6/24 at Bayern Munich

Nov. 27/24 at Monaco 

Dec. 11/24 vs Bologna

Jan.  21/25 vs Barcelona 

Jan.  29/25 at Juventus