Rui Costa justifies delay in hiring a central defender for Benfica.

Rui Costa, president of Benfica, addressed the current situation regarding the signing of a central defender, highlighting the difficulties faced by the club in the transfer market. The statement was made on the eve of the crucial second leg of the third qualifying round of the Europa League against Hearts, a match that promises to be decisive for the team's aspirations.

The official acknowledged that the departure of António Silva left a significant gap in defense: “There has been a huge problem here with the issue of the central defender [smiles]. I understand, especially the fans, that with António Silva's departure we lost a central defender, but the truth is, and I have had the opportunity to say this, we are not building a squad for August, but for the whole year. Surely, in the coming days, a central defender will arrive.” This statement suggests that the club's management is focused on long-term planning rather than a rushed solution.

Rui Costa also explained Benfica's cautious approach to the summer market, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right players. “What we have been doing, between the coaching staff and the structure, and this is a necessity, is to choose well and not quickly. Since we do not feel the urgency to bring in a central defender overnight, we prefer to spend a few more days here,” he stated. For him, negotiations do not always go as expected and require additional time to ensure that the club makes the right choices.

In addition, Rui Costa assured that Benfica's squad will not be complete until the transfer market closes on August 31. “I am not going to comment on the players linked to Benfica, or the plane leaves, arrives in Scotland and I'm still in the middle of the list. I can only say, in a broader analysis of the market, that Benfica's squad will not remain as it is on August 31,” he said, emphasizing that more departures and arrivals are planned. The message was clear: the club's strategy is to work meticulously to ensure a robust squad that can compete on all fronts.

With the transfer market approaching its closure, the pressure on Rui Costa and the coaching staff is increasing. The expectations of the fans are high, and Benfica's ability to meet those demands will be crucial for the success of the season. The arrival of a new central defender in the coming days could be an important step in strengthening the defense and minimizing the impact of António Silva's departure.