Otamendi reveals that even great stories have an END.

A clear deviation in the management of the squad at Benfica that cannot be ignored. The constant presence of Nicolás Otamendi in the starting eleven, even with his advanced age, is hindering the growth and development of young talents who could be crucial for the club’s future.

Debrief’s words are striking: “The Argentine’s cycle at Benfica ended two seasons ago.” A phrase that reveals not only frustration with the continued presence of a player who, despite his experience, seems to lack the same impact as before. This is a saga that drags on, and like all stories that prolong without sense, it begins to have a weak plot and questionable interpretations.

The insistence of Benfica’s management to keep Otamendi in the first team appears to be a decision more about immediacy than about long-term development. Rui Costa and his coaching staff, it seems, are unwilling to take a step back to see the bigger picture. And what is evident, according to analyses, is a player who, at 38 years old, remains a mandatory choice, even when there are more promising alternatives like António and Tomás Araújo.

Otamendi, who has been a pillar in defense, is preventing younger players from establishing themselves and gaining the confidence needed to shine. “In the name of experience, others, who are already more than matured at 22 and 23 years old, are being hindered from finally evolving into what is expected of them,” states Debrief, emphasizing the urgent need to create space for new options.

What is even more alarming is that by keeping Otamendi, Benfica may be risking the valuation of important assets. António, for example, has a promising future that is being compromised by the presence of a player who is no longer up to what the team needs. The decision to continue relying on Otamendi instead of younger players with greater potential raises many questions about the long-term strategy of the management.

Debrief does not hesitate to assert that “Otamendi’s presence also prevents a left-footed player from being integrated into the build-up play.” With the lack of progression in passing, the team becomes vulnerable to opposing pressure. The vision of a competitive Benfica cannot be built on questionable choices that ignore the emerging talent expected to shine.

Furthermore, the club’s management is missing a valuable opportunity to renew its squad. “Under the guise of experience, Benfica has avoided addressing a sector that has been calling for renewal for some time,” says Debrief, pointing to an urgent need to analyze what the academy has to offer. The current situation not only devalues players like António but also jeopardizes the future of the club.

The issue is clear: Benfica needs a plan that not only looks to the present but also projects a promising future. The stubbornness in keeping Otamendi as a starter could lead to dire consequences that go beyond the pitch. Time is running out, and the transfer windows are about to close. It is time to act before it is too late.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.