Oh Bébé, Bébé

Just because a player is Portuguese and demonstrates great talent for one season, it does not necessarily mean that it is ideal to have Benfica sign that player. The player in which I speak of is Tiago Manuel Dias Correia otherwise known as Bébé. He is 24 years old, born in Cacém, Portugal and has played for such teams as; Estrela De Amadora, Vitória De Guimaraēs, Besiktas, Rio Ave, and Paços De Ferreira. I also forget to mention that he has played for and currently belongs to Manchester United. Last season was his best season as he was on loan to Paços De Ferreira scoring 11 goals in 27 league matches which made him the 7th best scorer in the Liga Zon Sagres tied with Rodrigo(Benfica), and Evandro (Estoril).

Although last season may of been his best in terms of goal scoring, his most memorable point of his career occurred in the summer of 2010 in which Bébé had recently joined Vitória De Guimaraēs from second division Estrela De Amadora on a free transfer and was scouted by Carlos Queiroz to join the almighty Manchester United.  Bébé arrived at Old Trafford on August 12, 2010 for a £7.4 million transfer fee (United met the €9 million release clause of Vitória De Guimaraēs)  Sir Alex Ferguson had never seen or heard of the player until the day upon his arrival at Old Trafford. Before he was scouted the young talent scored 5 goals in 6 pre-season matches.

Although the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani were able to leave Portugal and make an impact at Manchester United in the BPL, Bébé failed to do so and is now considered a Ferguson "Flop" over the recent years. He only wore the Manchester United jersey a few times during cup games and has yet played a single league game before constantly being loaned out on three seperate occasions. Bébé is on contract until the summer of 2015 in which at this point "The Red Devils" are hoping to make back some of their money spent on the Portuguese Forward.

Bébé appears now to be rumoured on his way to Benfica. It is true that although he was not the top goal scorer in the league, he was the top Portuguese born scorer throughout the 2013/14. Although this was quite an achievement, it did not gain him a spot on the 2014 Portugal Men's National Team nor has it given any sort of spot on Louis Van Gaal's 2014/15 pre-season Manchester United squad.

With the likes of Rodrigo being sold, Cardozo on his way out, Funes Mori on a loan to Turkey, if acquired would the opportunity be given to Bébé to shine at Benfica? Let's not forget Benfica still has the likes of Lima who is just shy of 31 and was Benfica's top goal scorer last season with a lot more to offer. Nélson Oliveira appears to be back at Benfica and if him and his dad keep their mouths shut, we may very well see Oliveira get an almost leading role at Benfica throughout 2014/15. Let us not forget Benfica has just signed Derley (Maritimo), Victor Andrade (Santos) Daniel Candeias (Nacional), and have the likes of Pizzi (Depotivo),  Ivan Cavaleiro, Salvio, Enzo and a few others who can not only score goals but can assist on them as well. The argument can be made that Benfica has a deep enough bench for now but we are not sure with less then one week away that there is enough talent to get those goals and win games throughout the 2014/15. This argument will be answered shortly as we witness Benfica go through an extensive pre-season 

Would The Benfica Nation like to see another Portuguese talent join Benfica for 2014/15? I would say most definitely. Although Benfica has sold Ezequiel Garay, and Lazar Markovic recieving over €30 Million to go out and spend money on another forward may be far fetched (unless the price is right) but if let's say Manchester United offered Bébé as part of a trade (United gives Benfica €20 Million and Bébé for the services of Nico for example) then his transfer may be more appealing. 

There is no doubting that there is talent in Bébé and potential for him to do well at Benfica but only if it makes sense financially and if JJ is able to integrate him into the squad. His story is most definitely a touching one as he came from poverty and found soccer as a way to get him out of trouble. My only concern is that Benfica gets stuck with another Yannick Djaló or Ariza Makukula (Currently free agent) who were Portuguese players with great potential and were acquired because they were Portuguese and ended up getting burned at Benfica playing little to no games and also getting little to no calls to the Seleção. 

One good year in the Portuguese League does not make a player great. Bébé although was talked about often during his youth and has potential he is not yet great. If Benfica wants a player who is consistent and can score goals for them then Éder should be on their radar. He is 26 years old and although he had a poor performance with the Seleção, so did the other 22 players. Éder has scored 16 goals in 31 league caps during his last 2 seasons at Sporting De Braga but if Benfica want his services he may go for a hefty €7-8 Million. Rafa Silva although more of a winger/ 10 type of player is young, Portuguese, scored 9 goals in 32 games for Braga in all competitions last season but may go for €4-5 Million. 

The transfer season has only just begun and whomever arrives at The Luz or departs from it is still partially unknown. The only thing for certain is that the 2014/15 season is upon us and after the terrific treble of 2013/14 Benfica will have their work cut out for them competing to win a "Doubradinho" against what looks like to be a competiitive Sporting side lead by the brilliant young mind of Marco Silva and a tiki taka influnced FC Porto lead by Julen Lopetegui.

The Oblak Situation

It was approximately one year ago in which the idea of 20-year-old Jan Oblak getting a start at Benfica seemed a far-fetched idea. This was around the time in which Benfica coach Jorge Jesus mentioned in an exclusive Benfica TV interview that the idea of Jans Oblak getting a start at Benfica was not going to happen. The reason? JJ felt that at the time Oblak lacked experience and was not ready. Oblak had just returned back to Benfica after spending the 2012/13 season as a starting goalie on loan at Rio Ave. Let's not forget that Oblak arrived at Benfica when he was just 16-years-old and had prior stints at União De Leiria, Beira-Mar, and SC Olhanese. JJ's argument of lack of experience being credited to Oblak had failed. Once again as we often protested on The Benfica Podcast we did not agree with JJ's comments and we all agreed that if an opportunity presented itself throughout the 2013/14 season that Oblak would (and should) be able to show his worth.

It was Match Day #13 December 15, 2013 Benfica had traveled to The Estádio Algarve in Faro to face SC Olhanese. It was 2-2 and Artur went to make a monster save in which he hurt himself in the 63". After Nico Gaitán being disallowed a penalty kick, the game was not sitting well for Benfica. Personally, I was convinced Benfica were going to lose points again and the game would end in a draw. After a few minutes, Artur finally came off and Jan Oblak was finally getting his big break. Benfica managed to win the game and Oblak began his first of many outstanding performances that would continue throughout the 2013/14 season.

Oblak continued his full form throughout the second half of the season. In 15 league games he only
allowed 3 goals. Who can forget Match Day 15 when he shut out FC Porto in front of a sold out Estádio Da Luz. He went over 450 minutes from the end of Match Day17 - beginning of match day
23 without allowing a goal. His performance during the UEFA Europa League was exceptional. Although Benfica came in 2nd to Sevilla, Oblak was able to hold his head high after a superb debut UEFA final.

Let's fast-forward now to one year later (the present) after the tremendous success Jan Oblak just had, it is now only evident with the upcoming 2014/15 season approaching it is no wonder that the  21-year-old Slovenian goalkeeper is on the radar of multiple teams such as the big 3 of Spain Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid have been linked with the transfer of Oblak.

Benfica President has gone on record to say that any team who are willing to pay the 20M € clause will be able to enter in negotiations with Oblak. My only fear (besides losing Oblak) is that Benfica will let Oblak go without a back-up plan. Who takes over for Oblak if this transfer occurs too early or too late during the summer transfer window? (Supposedly Oblak is performing medical tests on Madrid's facilities as I am writing this blog)

Benfica's alternative solution at the moment is Artur. We all remember Artur right? He was Benfica's top goalie since 2011 while Oblak was still in diapers getting his feet wet on loan throughout Portugal. Artur has experience playing in Portugal (Braga) and throughout Europe (Roma, Other teams throughout Italy) and at 33 he still has some fight in him as long as he is match fit. Did we also forget that Artur carries the number 1 on his back? The problem with Artur is a similar one to Oblak as he has also sparked the interest of other clubs within Europe and may also be on his way out of the door as well. Also after spending an entire season on the bench going down to an injury and watching Oblak carry the team forward, Artur will need time to gain confidence and rebuild his self-esteem.

At Benfica there are other options as well. Paulo Lopes who although is "Made In Benfica" is
approaching the end of his career and based on his few games that he played throughout the previous season he is much more reliable with his current role as a back-up goalie then as Benfica's main keeper. Then there are the "Made In Benfica" options who some can argue deserve a chance but may still be very green. Bruno Varela had a great showing during this past season on the B Team in which he has already capes over 50 games since 2012 and has been called up to the Portugal youth teams with over 20 caps. At 19 years of age, Varela has an impressive resumé thus far and perhaps (like Oblak) if an opening comes up may deserve a chance. 19 year old Thierry Graça will also go down  as a future prospect as he helped the Benfica Juniores (U19) reach the final of the first ever UEFA Youth League competition. Eventually these are players whose services will be required at the main team level but still  have a lot to learn.

Before giving the likes of Varela, Graça or other future prospects an opportunity on the main team can they handle being in competitive matches against the likes of FC Porto or Sporting? Will they represent the club well during UEFA competition? Although winning the league is always a top priority within Portugal, let's not kid ourselves the bread and butter of Benfica (or any team for that matter) is how well and how far they advance in UEFA. 

Also, with The World Cup pretty much wrapping up to even try and predict a goalie with any sort of possibility of coming to Benfica is impossible. Every team big or small was following this competition closely or from afar. We never heard much of  Keylor Navas or Guillermo Ochoa until four weeks ago and now they are under every big budgeted team's radar. Benfica, is still regarded as the team with the most supported fan base in the world (according to Guiness Book Of World Records) their fan base may be the biggest but their pockets are not the deepest. Oblak's replacement does not necessarily have to be Portuguese or come from  the Portuguese league but it also would not hurt? It was only 3 seasons ago in which Benfica had one of the best and most experienced goalies in the Portuguese League Eduardo who ended up at Braga and is now a top gem for The Seleção. It was hard to fit Eduardo into Benfica's squad at the time because he was on loan from Genoa and Artur had recently arrived at the Luz. Besides Eduardo playing a few cup games, he was not utilized well at Benfica. At this point it may be difficult for Eduardo to join Benfica as the 31 year old just signed a three year contract with Dinamo Zagreb (Croatia)

 

Anthony Lopes is a young up-and-coming goalie who was born in France but has Portuguese citizenship. He is 23 and is a product of the Lyon youth system and currently plays as a starter for the main Lyon squad. Lopes has had brief experience playing in the UEFA Europa League competition and has been called up as a back up keeper during Portugal matches. For Lopes to continue to play in Lyon it may be because he either does not want to leave his youth team or he right offer from the right team has not been made. Based on Lopes experience he may or not go for a hefty fee.

 

Fraser Forster is 26 years old and plays for Celtic in the SPL. He was developed at Newcastle and had brief loans at Bristol, and Norwich County before signing onto Celtic. Forster has had UEFA Champions League experience representing Celtic in their last two campaigns. On November 7, 2012 Celtic defeated Barcelona 2-1 in a game in which Forster was given the nickname "La Gran Muralla" (The Great Wall) by the Spanish media. Forster set a new record on February 22, 2014 as setting the record in the SPL for most consecutive clean sheets in a row (13) with over 1200 minutes without conceding a goal. Often in the past it was reported by ABOLA that Benfica showed interest in the Celtic goal keeper. Forster seems as though he would adapt well at Benfica but may also go for a hefty fee.

 

The reality is that it is no surprise that Jan Oblak is on his way out of Benfica. Oblak is a young and talented goal keeper who has a buyout clause in which most big clubs can afford. Even if Oblak stays at Benfica for another season, it is very rare to find a young goalie with such exceptional talents at 21 years of age. If Oblak is going to leave then he must leave now we don't want to have a repeat occurance from 2 seasons ago in which Witsel and Garcia were traded towards the last days of the summer transfer window which left Benfica without a back up plan in sight. Hopefully this time around Benfica has a back up plan and is prepared for the loss.

The Left Back Problem At Benfica

 

This has been an ongoing issue since the departure of Fabio Coentrao in 2011. Since his departure, we saw the likes of Emerson, Lorenzo Melgarejo (Striker) and let's not forget Bruno Cortez brief few months last season playing as LB

Last season Benfica acquired two excellent solutions at full back (as we discovered later on in the season, both can play in t he LB position) Silvio and Siqueira. We (Benfica Nation) all welcomed both players with open arms.

 

Siqueira demonstrated great ability throughout the season covering off the attacking forwards from the opposition. Silvio, a "Made In Benfica" full back was lethal on the wings as well. Both players are at their prime age (Silvio 26, Siqueira 28) in their career. They have experience and can do what proper full backs do and that is protect, defend and run up and down the flanks. With what appears to be a shortage of full backs currently, I feel both players (when healthy of course) would be ideal as starting full backs on any team. Silvio has played in Spain and if not injured would of been Portugal's ideal RB. Siqueira has played within Italy and Spain and sparked the interest of Real Madrid.

 

They both cried for Benfica and played for the love of the shirt. These were two players who provided great solutions to Benfica's historic winning Treble Season. Unfortunately, both players were loanee players from Granada and Atletico Madrid. Although Siqueira's wages may of been too high for Benfica's payroll, Silvio reported for pre-season camp this week and although still recovering from injury his loan deal has expired and may very well sign for Benfica.

 

Benfica did have the option to buy Siqueira from Granada for 7M but missed the boat to Atletico Madrid. (Real Madrid also made offers) 7M for a solution to a 3 year problem. 7M is a lot of money for Benfica to spend on any player but let's not forget it would not be the transfer fee that would "Break The Bank" it would of been his actual yearly salary. In the past Benfica have bought numerous players for 7M some bust, some worth the money regardless, spending money on a quality LB (or a quality defender who can play LB) should always be a priority.

A quality full back is a much different find then a striker, winger, or midfield. Those are a dime a dozen unlike a quality full back which is a hard to find almost rare commodity to find. For Benfica to achieve success in this year up coming 2014/15 season they need a proper LB to help Benfica compete in domestic and UEFA competition.

 

 

 Benfica has not yet sealed the contract with Silvio who may only be available healthy by October (ABola.pt) and although he will miss some action Benfica must get their head out of the clouds and not miss the boat on signing Silvio. Not only will he give it his best, he is also "Made In Benfica." and is Portuguese. It's always good to have a few of those on your team.

In the meantime Benfica have acquired 26 year old Brazilian LB Djavan (free from Academica), 23 year old Brazilian RB Luis Felipe (Palmeiras, unknown fee) and 22 year old Swiss LB Loris Benito (FC Zurich, 3M) as options for full backs in the up and coming season. Although I do not follow Brazilan soccer or The Swiss League, I feel as though Felipe will be better then Emerson but not as good as Melgarejo. Also, unless Maxi or Andre Almeida get traded (also Silvio may have a future at Benfica), I can't see Luis Felipe getting many minutes at all. Djavan however has experience in the Portuguese League and capped 27 games for Academica in his debut season last year. He may have experience but he was also acquired on a free transfer which means as of right now (unless JJ has some crazy idea in which he almost always does) Loris Benito is currently Benfica's LB. He is young, and has no experience playing in Portugal which makes me wonder if he is ready for the task at hand? On the other hand for Benfica to spend 3M and have him scouted by Rui Costa, it should show us some indication as to what we can expect from the young Swiss LB.

 

If the Arabs came and bought Benfica with oil money and budgets were no options, signing Siqueira and bringing back Fabio Coentrao would solve Benfica's LB situation. Unfortunately, Benfica may be the biggest and most supported team throughout the world but what they have in fans they lack in funds. Benfica must live within their means and be strategic when acquiring these players. Signing players on the free like Djavan provides depth on the bench. However, paying ridiculous amounts of money for players for multiple South American wingers and attacking mid fielders, and keeping the salaries of players who barely lift their legs off of the bench is something in which continues to occur at Benfica. It's time for Benfica to slowly cut the fat off and continue to build for the future.

 

 

World Class Garay Leaves Benfica

 

It is evident that after winning the "Portuguese Treble" that Benfica were going to have to sell players.  The CMVM reported on June 25, 2014 that Argentine CB Ezequiel Garay of Benfica was sold to Zenit St. Petersburg for € 6.000.000. Ezequiel Garay age 27 arrived at Benfica on July 5, 2011 as he signed a four - year contract for € 5.5.000.000 as part of the Fábio Coentrão transfer to Real Madrid.

 

Over the last three seasons one of Benfica's all time best CB combo without question was Ezequiel Garay and Benfica captain Luisão. During the 2013/14 Garay played 27 league games, scored 6 goals and only suffered 3 yellow cards. These stats demonstrate that not only is he a clever defender but he can also contribute to the score sheet. (This is an extra added bonus to being a world class defender)

 

Ezequiel Garay definetly enjoyed his time at Benfica especially alongside fellow countrymen Nico Gaitán, Eduardo Salvio, Enzo Pérez, and Benfica B wonder kid Funes Mori. Garay capped over 100 games with a Benfica jersey was often praised in the Liga Zon Sagres as one of the best if not the best CB in the league and besides Zenit  he was linked to other big clubs such as Manchester United, and Valencia.

 

 

At Benfica Garay has won the following trophies:

2013/14 Liga Zon Sagres Winner
2013/14 Portuguese Cup Winner
2013/14 Portuguese League Cup Winner

2011/12 Portuguese League Cup Winner

Other accomplishments include:

2013/14 UEFA Europa Cup Runner Ups
2012/13 UEFA Europa Cup Runner Ups

2012/13 Liga Zon Sagres Runner Ups
2011/12 Liga Zon Sagres Runner Ups

Benfica CB Situation

Although Garay is considered a world class CB who lets face it may have been too good for the Portuguese League, Benfica have a deep enough bench as alternate options for Garay.

Lisandro Ezequiel López will be returning to Benfica after a season long loan to Spanish side Getafe in which he played 27 games and scored 4 league goals. 24 year old Lisandro Ezequiel López arrived at Benfica on July 10, 2013 in which he signed to a five year contract with a  €35M buy-out clause. Although López shares similarities to Garay (He's a CB, he's an Argentine, his middle name, etc.) with limited experience in Europe, how will López adapt filling in for one of the best CB out there and playing alongside Benfica's experienced captain? Also, can he handle playing in the UEFA Champions League by representing the most popular club in Portugal. Limited experience in Europe will definitely be a factor

 

 

César Henrique Martins recently joined Benfica in June from Ponte Preta, Brazil. The 21 year old has never played outside of Brazil and may have a hard time adapting to Benfica's main squad. He has shown a lot of promise in his Brazilian club as he played 24 matches for Ponte Preta in 2014 while they played in both the Serie B and Paulista A1 league's in Brazil. César is determined to "Conquer Titles"and is thrilled to play on the former team as his countrymen David Luiz. Perhaps César may get time in the B team before the initial main Benfica squad.

 

 

 

Jardel the 28 year old defender has had a limited role on the Benfica squad upon his arrival in 2010 from SC Olhanese. With that being said, he has played in UEFA competitions and has filled in for captain Luisão on several occasions. Jardel may not be the most talented of Benfica's CB, he has height and when given an opportunity gets the job done. If he continues to wear his "Batman" mask then he will most definitely be a lethal CB for Benfica in 2014/15.

 

 

Steven Vitória is Benfica's tallest CB at 195CM. The 27 year old Canadian born has not done much upon his arrival to Benfica one year ago but he has also not has the opportunity to gain minutes on the main squad. There is much potential in Steven Vitória as  he was a part of the 2012/13 Estoril Praia team that tied Benfica in May 2013 which resulted in Benfica losing the Liga Zon Sagres for a third consecutive season. Steven Vitória scored 11 goals for Estoril Praia in 27 league appearances during the 2012/13 season  which is quite impressive for a CB. He is also looking to grab more minutes at Benfica in hopes to catch the eyes of Paulo Bento for a possible call up to the Portuguese National Team.

Stefan Mitrović is another Benfica CB who has potential but lacks minutes. The 24 year old Serbian arrived at Benfica in 2013 at a time in which Benfica had 7 other Serbians (including 2 sets of brothers). He spent most of the 2013/14 on loan with Real Valladoid in Spain in which he capped 16 league games. Determination and motivation are just two words to describe this player's ability.I know I couldn't do any of those workouts.  

Personally, out of all of the names mentioned I feel Lisandro López is the best possible solution for Garay at the moment. Lisandro can learn a lot from Luisão and will continue to develop. There are a few names on the B team and Junior's who are still Green but can very well in a season or two become top prospects as Benfica's main CB.

Benfica 2013/14 - A Season To Remember

Going into 2014 Benfica were in third place with a 10-3-1 record. Although Benfica  lost their first game of the season to Maritimo and lost important points as they drew to Sporting CP, Belenenses, and Arouca the season was not over yet. The team began to show a lot of promise as Jorge Jesus and company began to regain their confidence. Players like Rodrigo, Markovic, Ruben Amorim, Silvio became key players on the pitch. Also with Artur getting injured during match day 13 against Olhanese the emergence of Slovenian goaltender Jans Oblak would occur as he would only allow 3 goals in 16 league games. 

On January 5, 2014 Benfica lost their king Eusébio at age 71. This tragic loss would continue to unite Benfica as they hosted FC Porto in what would go down as one of the most memorable victories against the Dragons ever. All Benfica players had the name Eusébio on their backs and were victorious 2-0 in which would become the first of three successful victories over the Dragons in 2014. This was the last game in which we would see Serbian midfielder Nemanja Matić wear a Benfica jersey. He was transferred to Chelsea worth approximately €25 million. In a later interview conducted by Benfica President LFV, he admitted that he convinced Matić to remain at the club. 

Former Benfica Captain Mario Coluna also left the Benfica family as he passed away on February 25, 2014 joining his former team mate Eusébio. These events continued to motivate the team even more as they began what would eventually become a 27 home game undefeated winning streak at home. 

Although Benfica were hosting the 2014 UEFA Champions League Finals, they exited the competition early as they were unable to advance through their group. Benfica finished the group with 10 points tied with Olimpiakos (loss on head to head) Anderlecht finished with 1 point and PSG dominated the group with 13 points. As one door closed another one soon opened as they entered the UEFA Europa League they began eliminating the likes of PAOK, Tottenham, AZ Alkmaar, and the in the semi-finals the hosts Juventus. Benfica advanced once again to the UEFA Europa League Finals for their second consecutive final losing in penalty kicks in a controversial game to Sevilla. The Bella Gutman curse of 1962 continues as this marked Benfica's eigth consecutive loss in a UEFA final.

2014 seemed a lot better then 2013 as history would be made. Benfica is now the only team to win all three titles in Portugal in one season the last time. Benfica won a double title "Doubradinho" in the same year was 1986/87 when they won the Portuguese Cup and the League.

Throughout the 2013/14 season Benfica played a total of 57 games in all competitions. They managed to not only be the top team in Portugal but became finalists in the UEFA Europa League and were ranked the 5th best team in the UEFA coefficient which is the highest ranking that any Portuguese team has ever recieved. Although the team struggled with injuries, red cards, and accumulative yellow cards, their performance throughout the tournament was a great one (especially away to Juventus) but in the end were more unlucky then unsuccessful losing to Sevilla in PK. Teams in Italy, France, England, Germany and throughout Europe only wished to be in Benfica's place reaching a UEFA final in 2014.

Some would argue that this team has not changed much from last season. Although their style of play has not changed (JJ still fields a 2 man midfield, occasional 3) I disagree with that statement in retrospective Benfica has a much greater depth then they did in previous years and Benfica has players that can play multiple types of positions. For example;

Ruben Amorim returned to Benfica after a one season loan absence away at SC Braga. Amorim can play as a midfielder, a fullback or on the wing  in the midfield he can play as much defensive as he can be in a attacking role. He was a great alternative to Fejsa who missed most of the second half of the season due to injuries

Silvio and Siqueira are quality fullbacks in which Benfica have not seen since Fabio Coentrao departed almost 4 years ago. hopefully Benfica will sign the loaner FB for a permanent stay going into 2014/15

Jans Oblak has been one of many success stories of the season for Benfica. It is my personal opinion that Oblak is definitely Benfica's most valuable player this season he played 26 games in all competitions and has only allowed 6 goals, (3 in league, 3 in UEFA) since his start debut against SC Olhanese back on December 21. His only loss of a season was to PK in the UEFA Europa Final. 

Serbians Marković, Sulejmani, Fejsa and Djuricić were all new additions to the team this season. They had a lot to offer but unfortunately Fejsa and Sulejmani's playing time was cut short as there was often injuries. Fejsa played 27 games and Sulejmani played 26 games (3 goals).

There are great things coming for Djuricić. Some are of the personal belief (myself included) that he was not given enough minutes on the pitch to demonstrate his worth. Whether or not JJ likes him or not, his style of play right now is not compatible with JJ's plans. (remember JJ sees him as a 9.5 but can very well be a 10)  If Gaitan leaves Benfica this summer I believe Djuricic will emerge into the 2014/15 Benfica squad and just like his team mate Lazar Marković will turn plenty of heads throughout Europe. 

Rodrigo is another player who emerged this year unfortunately his emergence was due to the injury sustained by Oscar Cardozo who missed most of the season. Rodrigo was given the green flag from JJ and became Benfica's second top goal scorer of the season with 18 goals in 43 Benfica matches. Shortly after Matić exit for a near €30M Benfica were able to sell the player rights of Rodrigo and André Gomes for €45M these players most likely will not return next season for Benfica

Our captain Luisão had his best season ever in which he not only caped 49 games and scored 6 goals but he was able to end the season by only receiving 3 yellow cards. For a CB this is unheard of. At 33 his form continues to grow and it looks like there is no sign of slowing down as Luisão has mentioned that he will most likely end  his career at the Luz. 

U19/ B Team

The under 19 team was very successful in the first ever becoming finalists in the first ever UEFA YOUTH LEAGUE competition. Benfica managed to go through the whole competition undefeated until they lost 3-0 in the finals to Barcelona in the next few years we will definitely see a great emergence of Benfica youth talent

The Benfica B team was also a lot of talk this year although they finished 5th and allowed in almost as many goals as they scored many goals such players as Ivan Cavaleiro, Bernard Silva, Funes Mori, João Cançelo and a few others will definitely emerge to becoming great talents in the near future

Benfica players continue to dominate the Portugal squads. Out of all of the teams that make up Portugal, Benfica is the most represented team for "As Quinas". In this summer's Portugal squad for Brazil, Paulo Bento initial called up 4 Benfica players out of his original 30 man squad. Both André Almeida and Ruben Amorim made the 23 man squad.

For Portugal's Under 21 team that will be in the 2015 UEFA European Championship 4 players have been called up:

André Gomes

Rúben Pinto

Ivan Cavaleiro

Bernardo Silva

Portugal under 19 and 20 teams have 3 Benfica players also but the most impressive of the squads is the Portugal under 17 squad which during the month of May had 11 out of 18 players representing Benfica during Portugal matches against Scotland, Switzerland, and Germany. 

Although in the past Sporting CP were the leaders of producing youth talent in Portugal, going into the future that theory has now died as Sporting may still develop youth in Portugal but not at the rate in which Benfica is going through at the Seixal.

The Year of JJ  

We often criticized JJ's  two man midfield and wanted him to play a three man midfield (although he tried a few games) the two men midfield and JJ stubbornness prevailed as we want three competitions this year. At this point in time unless  serious contract comes his way, JJ will remain a the Luz until his contract expires next season. 

We all  hated on JJ and were frustrated in the way he ran the club. There were times during the season in which he did not have the players respect. He did always have the respect and support of Benfica President LFV who stuck by JJ through all of the mess. 

I never thought I would say this (and I know I'm not alone) but if JJ can continue to bring success at Benfica I hope JJ remains our coach for a very long time. JJ is not only considered to be one of Benfica's most succesful coaches of all time but  is regarded as the 11th highest paid coach in Europe according to daily.co.uk's list published in December 2013

For JJ to leave Benfica it would not make sense unless it's for money where would he go? he would not be idolized as much as he is in Portugal as the coach of the most popular team in Portugal. Unless it is to a really big team (Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich who all have coaches) why leave the best team in Portugal to coach a mid-table team outside of Portugal?

The Law of The Market

Recently on BenficaTV guest host Pedro Guerra mentioned that it goes without question that Benfica will have to sell a few of their players during the up and coming summer transfer window. As often mentioned for Benfica or better yet any of the big teams in Portugal to remain successful financially they must do the following:

1) Secure a spot in UEFA Champions League

2) Having a good run or even reaching any of the UEFA Finals will generate more revenue and exposure to the club

3) Winning any of the domestic cups or league will give the team added bonus from their sponsors or investors

4) They must sell at least 2 big players (depending on what kind of money is received)

Although Benfica have won all of the possible titles in Portugal, after the season that they just finished (also in a World Cup Year) Benfica's talent will be raided. Here are some examples of revenue that Benfica will or are expecting to receive. 

- 25 Million Matic

- 45 Milion Rodrigo and Gomes player rights

- 4.5 Million in UEFA Europa League Competition

- 4 Million for hosting the UEFA Champions League Final

- 12.1 Million for participating in UEFA Champions League 

(8.6 just for getting there, 3 wins = 3M, 1 draw = halfM)

More then likely Eziquiel Garay and Nico Gaitan will be sold this summer. Garay has been rumored to go everywhere from Liverpool to Manchester United to Valencia but it now looks like he may join AVB in Russia at Zenit for a rumored 20+ million euros transfer fee. If this transfer is true then shame on all of the big clubs within Europe who are in search of a centre back. As good as David Luiz is for him to leave Chelsea and join PSG for a whopping 50 Million makes no sense. Garay is a world class centre back in which any team would be lucky to have and being paired with Luisão makes Benfica for a deadly centre back combo,

Nico Gaitan is another target who has also been rumored to go to the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and most recently Inter Milan for €25 million

Player Awards

Defensive Player - Eziquiel Garay/ Luisão 

Offensive Player - Lima

Most Improved - Nico Gaitan

Revelation - Ruben Amorim

MVP - Jans Oblak

Flop - Ola John

Noteable Mentions - Rodrigo, Ivan Cavaleiro, Enzo Perez, Lazar Markovic, Maxi Pereira, Andre Gomes, Bernardo Silva, Funes Mori, Siqueira, Silvio, 

Benfica vs Juventus UEFA Europa League Semi - Finals

Finally, Benfica are champions of Portugal for a 33rd time. It has been four consecutive years of heartache and heartbreak battling constantly by trying to slay the evil dragon that is FC Porto but we finally did it! Benfica are champions of Portugal and they can now focus their attention on two other priorities:

 

1) Winning The Taca De Portugal

2) Winning UEFA Europa Cup

BONUS: Winning The League Cup (We've won it  a bunch of times anyways)

 

This week the Europa League will begin its semi-finals matches of the tournament which will feature  Benfica hosting Juventus in a match of epic proportions in which on paper would make a great final of the tournament. Unfortunately, UEFA Semi - Finals matches are drawn out of a hat on paper but only decided in two legs. Although some may say Benfica have an advantage playing the first leg at home, Juventus (unlike SC Olhanese) will be a tough opponent in both legs. For Benfica to have any chance of repeating a double UEFA Europa Final they must win at home. Going into Italy with a draw or a loss will not get them past this stage.

If this tournament was based on who looks good on paper there is no question that Juventus should be in the final on paper (They are also hosting the final this year at their home stadium in Torino). However, as we all know UEFA titles are not decided as to who looks good on paper but who comes out on top to win.

 

 

NO UEFA LOSSES IN 5 MONTHS

 

Juventus have been dominating the Serie A nearly clinching the league title for their third consecutive season as they sail away with an eight point lead to second place Roma. Benfica on the other hand has had their most successful team and season in quite sometime (can win a total of Four titles this season) Benfica although were eliminated from the group stages of UEFA Champions League (so was Juventus) have not lost a UEFA match since November 5, 2013 as they lost 1-0 away to Olimpiakos. Juventus are also undefeated in UEFA since their 3-1 loss to Galatasary on Novemmber 11, 2013. group stages

At the start of the 2013/14 UEFA Champions League campaign, Juventus were one of many favorite's to win this competition. The Bianconeri's are quite familiar with the UEFA Europa League as they have been in four finals since 1976 and have won three of them. (Click here) Benfica, if successful against Juventus will be featured in their second consecutive UEFA Europa Cup Final but may have better odds winning this year against either Seville or Valencia unlike last year's final against Chelsea who were able to knock Benfica out of UEFA competition two consecutive years as well.

 

9 UEFA FINALS

Both Benfica and Juventus have nine UEFA finals. Benfica were back-to-back UEFA Champons League winners in 1960/61, and 1961/62 season and were five time runners up in 1962–63, 1964–65, 1967–68, 1987–88, 1989–90. Juventus were also two time UEFA Champons League winners in 1984–85, 1995–96. They also won the UEFA Super Cup those same years and won a total of nine UEFA Cups (click here).

 

 

JUVENTUS FORMATION & PLAYERS 

 

Juventus plays a 3-5-2 formation. However, in a more defensive minded game Juventus will resort to a 5-3-2 formation as the two wing backs will join the centre backs to form a back line of five. In a attack minded game, it appears as though they will play a 3-3-4 (almost want to call it 3-3-2wings-2 forwards)

 

It is no question that Juventus will play their best 11 away against Benfica. Juventus are a strong team overall. Their midfield players have been able to not only assist on goals but score themselves. Paul Pogba, (or" Pogboom" as he is known in Italy) Arturo Vidal, Marchisio, and an experienced Andrea Pirlo have all contributed to goals in the league and throughout UEFA. They are all great strong mid fielders who will most definetly give the Benfica CB's are hard time.

Looking at Quarter - Finals stages of the UEFA Europa League game Juventus played Olympique Lyonnais in which they advanced 3-1 on aggregate. CB Leonardo Bonucci scored in the first leg, Pirlo scored in the second leg and Lyonnais conceded an own goal. Wingers Mauricio Isla and 22 year old Kwadwo Asamoah from Ghana are quick, and have been in full form occupying the wings. Isla took over the position from 30 year old Lichtsteiner who although is a full back would often start as a winger on the right.  

 

The other Fernando Torres known as Llorente a forward from Spain leads Juventus in goals with 18. Carlos Tevez is not far behind with 14 goals. The irony is that Tevez has failed to score a single goal in UEFA competition this season but is common to start as he did during the second leg on the Lyon Quarter- Finals game. Marko Vučinić the 30 year old Montenegro forward may also be an option to start alongside Llorente but most likely we will see Pablo Osvaldo who has 2 goals in this competition (is on loan from Southampton, rumoured Benfica transfer last summer) or Sebastien Giovinco (2 goals only in league competition) may very well start at the Luz over Tevez.

 

 

BENFICA NO PRESSURE

 

It is my personal belief that Benfica on paper are just as good as Juventus. Gianluigi Buffon has played 31 games total in the Serie A in which he has 18 clean sheets. His experience definetly overshadows the 21- year old Slovenian Benfica goalkeeper Jan Oblak who has played 15 games this season and had 11 clean sheets. The percentage of clean sheets is higher for Oblak then Buffon. This season Oblak hands down is better then Buffon.

 

Ezequiel Garay has scored 6 goals this season as a centre back and his CB partner Benfica captain Luisao has had his best season yet. Those two can pair up and over any Juventus CB combo of either Barzagli, Caceres or Bonucci.

 

 

Our wingers are fast and have quick feet and if it's not Gaitan, Markovic or even Salvio who will definetly put away a goal or three during these two legs.

 

Our forwards Lima, and Rodrigo have been in constant form (Rodrigo more so throughout the season) and let's not forget Enzo who let's face it would crack the starting 11 of any team in the Serie A hands down.

 

Benfica will go into this competition relieved after just winning the league only a few days ago. No one really expects them to win outside of the Benfica Nation of course. The pressure is on Juventus especially in a year in which they are hosting and everyone will be shocked or disappointed if they are not in this year's final. Going into Italy will most definetly be Benfica's greatest challenge but a tie in not an impossible outcome for The Reds.