Benfica Begins 2025/26 Pre-Season with New Signings and Key Absences
Obrador and Dedić take the field; Super Cup against Sporting is first major test
Benfica officially kicked off pre-season training on Tuesday (July 15) at their Seixal training complex, as preparations begin for the 2025/26 campaign. The squad returned to the pitch for its first session with the ball, featuring fresh signings and some notable absences.
The training marks the start of Bruno Lage’s full season at the helm after taking charge during last year’s campaign.
New Faces in Training: Obrador, Dedić and a Youth Prospect
Among those present were new signings Obrador and Rasmus Dedić, both of whom joined the Lisbon giants earlier this summer. The duo quickly integrated into the group and took part in on-pitch drills.
Also involved was Eduardo Fernandes, an 18-year-old forward promoted from the club’s youth system. After registering two assists in eight matches for Benfica’s U-23 side last season, Fernandes will be evaluated for a potential first-team role.
Four Absentees: Injuries and Personal Matters
Despite the strong turnout, four players were absent from the first official session:
- Alexander Bah and Manu Silva remain in the medical department, continuing recovery from injuries and are not expected to return in time for the season opener.
- Tomás Araújo trained individually on the pitch due to lingering pubic pain, which had already ruled him out of the Club World Cup.
- Andreas Schjelderup was excused to attend his grandmother’s funeral. He is expected to return on Wednesday (July 16) and complete his medical and physical assessments.
Super Cup Against Sporting is Benfica’s First Major Clash
Benfica’s first official match of the new season is scheduled for July 31, when they face Sporting CP in the Portuguese Super Cup at Estádio Algarve. The game is being treated as a key early-season test following the squad’s short break after their Club World Cup elimination to Chelsea.
The Eagles had only two weeks of vacation before reconvening, a tight schedule that reflects the club’s ambitions to return to domestic and European dominance in 2025/26.
