Benfica head coach Marco Silva confirmed his team has only two central defenders available for Thursday's Europa League match against Scottish side Hearts.
Speaking ahead of the third qualifying round first leg at the Estádio da Luz, Silva admitted that the summer transfer market created a major squad challenge following the departure of António Silva. With 18-year-old defender Gabriel Índio not yet ready for immediate first-team duties, Benfica enter the fixture relying solely on the starting pair of Lenglet and Tomás Araújo.
Silva explained that while midfielders Manu Silva or Enzo Barrenechea possess the characteristics to fill in at central defense, the club is searching for a permanent reinforcement. He stressed that Benfica want to resolve the position quickly, but will not sign a player for just one or two matches if he does not fit their long-term requirements.
Squad Selection and Absences
Unlike the previous round against Swiss side St. Gallen, where Benfica lost 1-2 away before winning 5-0 at home, the Portuguese team start this tie at home. Silva stated that the team aims to make a decisive impact at the Luz in order to build confidence for the second leg in Scotland, though he noted nothing will be decided in the first game. He added that the club's history demands an aggressive winning attitude in every match.
Benfica will be without three players on Thursday due to physical issues, as Fredrik Aursnes, Ivanovic, and Banjaqui have all been ruled out. In the absence of Norwegian midfielder Aursnes, defender Tomás Araújo will serve as team captain.
Silva noted that squad members returning from the World Cup now have an extra week of training compared to the St. Gallen tie. However, he declined to confirm whether any additional World Cup players will start alongside Araújo.
Player Roles and Young Prospects
Addressing individual squad roles, Silva declined to answer CMTV directly on whether winger Andreas Schjelderup is on his list of untouchable players. He emphasized that Benfica rely heavily on wide play and his focus is on obtaining the best possible performance, while adding that Anatoliy Trubin's situation in goal is not an issue.
Regarding Gabriel Índio, who cost 4 million euros and is registered in the Europa League, Silva outlined a patient development path. The manager stated that the young defender requires time and matches with the B team to adapt to Portuguese football and grasp the scale of Benfica before making his first-team debut.
Silva also highlighted a demanding upcoming calendar, noting that after a full week of training, Benfica will play every three days until the international break. The club has also postponed its matchday three fixture to accommodate European qualification.
Tribunal Ruling on Former Coach
In other club news, Portugal's Sports Arbitration Tribunal, known as TAD, ruled in favor of former Benfica head coach José Mourinho by completely annulling a disciplinary sanction previously imposed on him.
The tribunal overturned an 11-day suspension and a 3,825 euro fine that had been issued to Mourinho following an alleged offense against honor during an argument with FC Porto assistant coach Lucho González in the 2025/26 season.
