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

 

Roger Schmidt out at Benfica.... finally

Roger Schmidt's time as Benfica manager is over as the board has made the decision to dismiss the German manager just four games into his third year at the club after a start that has seen the club drop five points in their first four league games.

When Roger Schmidt took the helm at Benfica in the summer of 2022, hopes were high and when the club came out flying, going undefeated in his first 29 games in charge across all competitions. Fans began to anticipate a season full of promise, victory and trophies. 

These performances also captured the attention of the club's staff and board and President Rui Costa was quick to extend Schmidt's contract from the initial two years originally given to four years and then the wheels began to lose their air.

The team's play started to suffer with the departure of midfielder Enzo Fernandez to Chelsea during the winter transfer window of that same season and it seemed that whatever genius Schmidt may have had (if he had any) left with him.

Benfica ended up hanging on to capture the league title by two points that season and may have lost the championship all together if there were more games left during that campaign as their victories were not as dominant as some of the results may have indicated, club's had figured out the Schmidt system and he could not figure out how to adjust.

Schmidt should have been let go after last season's campaign that saw him capture his second and final trophy with the club to start the season, when they won the Portuguese Super Cup, but as the season grow longer, Schmidt's stubbornness and lack of in game decisions cost the club its share of points and ultimately the championship.

When, on paper, a club has the best squad in the league, as Benfica did last season, it is the manager's job to get the best out of those players. This was something Schmidt was unable to do or could not do and Benfica finished runner up to eventual champions Sporting.

Watching Benfica play these first few games felt like watching your favorite TV show slowly decline in quality. The vibrant football style that fans had come to love almost vanished. Instead of exhilarating plays and solid teamwork, there were frustrating moments where the squad looked lost and confused. 

It’s no surprise fans became restless, questioning Schmidt’s tactics and the team’s overall direction. Once Schmidt decided it was best to include up to three defensive midfielders in his starting XI this season, you knew this was a manager playing to not lose as opposed to winning. A manager who knew his job was on the line if he got off to a poor start.

Given the situation, Benfica’s decision to part ways with Schmidt seems more understandable. A club with such a rich history can’t afford to drift aimlessly. Whether it's in sports or life, sometimes fresh perspectives are needed. Change, while difficult, can be the spark that ignites a team’s potential.

With Schmidt’s exit, many fans are left wondering what’s next for Benfica. The clock is ticking. Who will be the new face in the dugout? Could this new manager bring back the spark that the team desperately needs? The club’s history is built on triumphs, and it’s crucial they find a leader who can reignite that winning spirit.

The departure of Roger Schmidt marks a pivotal moment for Benfica. It isn't just a managerial change; it’s a signal that the club means business. For supporters, the upcoming weeks will be filled with uncertainty but also hope. A new beginning could be around the corner. After all, in football, just like in life, every ending leads to a new chapter.

Some of the names already being linked with the Benfica job are Sergio Conceicao, Leonardo Jardim, Daniel Sousa, Artur Jorge and Bruno Lage.

RB Leipzig's exciting move for Benfica's Antonio Silva

RB Leipzig is making headlines as they enter talks with Benfica about a potential loan move for rising star Antonio Silva. The center back is catching attention around Europe and Leipzig may be looking to make him a key player in their squad. Leipzig are open to adding an automatic buy clause to the loan deal set at €30 million to be paid at the end of the season, this deal could shake things up for both clubs.

Antonio Silva, the young Portuguese defender, has been a solid presence for Benfica. Known for his strong tackling and smart positioning, he brings a mix of youth and experience to the backline. Fans have noticed his ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions. Plus, at just 20 years of age, he’s got a bright future ahead, and a move to Leipzig could be the perfect stepping stone for his career. 

So, why would Leipzig want Silva? The answer is simple. Leipzig has ambitions to compete at the highest level, both in the Bundesliga and in European competitions. A player like Silva would strengthen their defense significantly. Imagine a young talent learning from experienced defenders and adapting to the fast-paced style of the Bundesliga. It’s a match that could benefit both parties immensely.

In today's transfer market, youth is gold. Clubs are investing more in young, dynamic players who can adapt and shine quickly. Silva falls into this category and with more clubs scouting fresh talent, Leipzig's move makes strategic sense. They’re not just looking for a player; they’re aiming to build a team for the future.

Silva has appeared in 95 games across all competitions since bursting on the scene at Benfica at the age of 18, scoring seven goals, while appearing in 8,443 minutes of action. Silva was also a key member of Benfica's winning UEFA Youth League squad in 2022.

If Silva moves to Leipzig, Benfica will have to consider their options. Could they quickly find a replacement? Or will they rely on their academy talents to fill the gap? Benfica has a rich history of nurturing young players, so they might have a backup plan ready to go.

The talks between RB Leipzig and Benfica about Antonio Silva are stirring emotions among the fans. This potential move not only reflects Leipzig’s ambition but also shines a light on Silva’s growing reputation in football. If this deal does goes through, it could be a win-win for everyone involved, with both clubs poised to benefit in the long run. Keep an eye on this situation; it could evolve quickly as the transfer window inches to a close!