Midfielder João Palhinha could make his debut for Benfica in Monday's match against Estoril at the Estádio da Luz after head coach Marco Silva confirmed his inclusion in the matchday squad.
Silva revealed during his pre-match press conference that the new signing would be integrated into the team gradually as he builds up match fitness following his arrival at the Portuguese club.
Palhinha joined SL Benfica ahead of the new season as one of the club's key defensive reinforcement options under president Rui Costa. The Lisbon side are competing in the Primeira Liga, the top tier of Portuguese football.
Speaking ahead of the fourth round league fixture, Silva said Palhinha was in the squad for Monday's game, adding that supporters would see on the day whether the midfielder would feature on the pitch.
Silva acknowledged that the player currently lacks official match rhythm, meaning the coaching staff will have to give him playing time step by step. However, the manager emphasized that Palhinha has avoided major injuries throughout his career and possesses a strong physical condition that will allow him to reach the required performance levels.
Silva explained that Palhinha easily possesses the physical attributes needed to play with the intensity demanded of his role, but noted that reaching peak form would require more training sessions with the squad and additional match minutes.
Squad Adjustments and Transfer Window
With only a few days remaining before the transfer window closes, Silva admitted that his squad is not yet exactly as he would desire. He pointed out that while players have worked hard and evolved toward the team's intended playing style, creating a perfect squad in a single transfer window remains impossible.
The manager noted that retaining every player or securing every transfer target is not always realistic. He stated that he would not get carried away or claim everything was perfect, stressing that the priority was establishing a competitive squad capable of challenging for titles.
Emotional Reunion with Estoril
Monday's encounter holds personal significance for Silva, who is facing Estoril, the final club he represented as a player and the first team he managed as a head coach.
Silva acknowledged that returning to face his former side would be a special occasion, explaining that he spent many years at the club and still knows many people there. He reflected that the memories created at each stage of a career are what ultimately remain in football.
First League Game at Estádio da Luz
The fixture also marks Benfica's first league match at the Estádio da Luz this season. Silva expressed frustration that supporters had to wait until almost September to watch the team at home after being denied that opportunity in their opening fixture.
Silva claimed that having the opening home fixture restricted was the first time such a situation had occurred in Portuguese football, describing the club as pioneers in that respect.
