Bruno Lage contemplating mental overhaul for 'Reconquista 2.0' restructuring
2025/26 Season Preparations at Benfica: Midfield Overhaul on the Horizon
The eagle has landed, and Benfica is already eyeing the 2025/26 season with a midfield revamp in sight. Bruno Lage, the team's leader, might employ the Club World Cup for some tactical experimentation ahead of the upcoming season.
The midfield landscape could undergo seismic shifts, as players leave or return, possibly necessitating reevaluation of the tactical system or reinforcements from Rui Costa.
Looming Exits
Renato Sanches, a pillar in the midfield, might not secure a permanent place in Benfica due to a less-than-impressive performance that has left the higher-ups hesitant to spending around 10 million euros on him.
Florentino Luis, coveted in Europe, seems destined for greener pastures, with Napoli, freshly crowned Italian champions, and Juventus vying for his services. Meanwhile, the Greeks at PAOK are trying to negotiate a lower price for Soualiho Meité, who's on loan from Benfica with an option to buy.
Battle-hardened Survivors
In the midst of potential departures, only a handful of midfielders remain in Benfica's roster, albeit temporarily. Bruno Lage seems to favor Manu Silva, Orkun Kokçü, Fredrik Aursnes, and Leandro Barreiro. The young brigade consists of João Rego, Hugo Félix, Nuno Félix, Diogo Prioste, and João Veloso, who are knocking on the door of the main team.
But is three a crowd or the perfect balance? Lage must decide whether to maintain the three-man midfield or adopt a two-man midfield to bolster Benfica's attacking prowess further.
If he sticks with three, additional reinforcements might be necessary. The transfer market is buzzing with names like Matias Galarza, Ismail Yuksek, and Kenan Busuladzic, whose skills could allow Lage to fine-tune his midfield strategy for the upcoming season.
The Future Awaits
Faced with the daunting task of halting Sporting's three-peat and securing the 'Reconquista 2.0,' Lage might have to delve into the transfer market to ensure the presence of the right tools. The next few months will reveal the midfielders that will don the red jersey and help Benfica soar to new heights.
Stay tuned for updates as the transfer season unfolds, and let the games begin!
Additional Info: With some positions already secured, such as central defense, Benfica is focusing on adding a creative forward and strengthening their midfield[1]
In the pursuit of excelling in both international sports and European leagues, Benfica's strategic plans for the 2025/26 season extend beyond their central defense, aiming to bolster their midfield and perhaps discover a creative forward in premier-league quality.
Given potential departures of Renato Sanches, Florentino Luis, and Soualiho Meité, the upgraded midfield might involve acquisitions from Matias Galarza, Ismail Yuksek, or Kenan Busuladzic, contributing to the squad's football prowess and helping Benfica secure their next title.
