Benfica's players are delighted with the training methods introduced by head coach Marco Silva, and the approach is already showing in the team's performances at the start of the new season, according to Correio da Manhã.
The intensity and manner of Silva's work are starting to show in the quality of Benfica's football, and the players have responded with enthusiasm, the Portuguese newspaper reported. As Correio da Manhã had previously reported, Silva's arrival changed all the routines that José Mourinho had put in place during the previous season, a shift that pleased the squad. More possession-based play and heavier physical and tactical work are allowing most of the players to perform far better than they did a few months ago, according to the report.
Even players who are no longer automatic starters despite having been so last season, such as Andreas Schjelderup and Richard Ríos, acknowledge that the team is playing much better and credit Silva and his coaching staff for the improvement, Correio da Manhã said.
Benfica have scored 25 goals in seven official matches so far this season, an average of 3.57 goals per game, in what the newspaper described as an offensive output not seen at the Estádio da Luz for a long time.
Who is Marco Silva
Silva is a Portuguese coach who has previously managed in the Premier League with Hull City, Watford, Everton and Fulham before joining Benfica this season. Benfica, one of Portugal's most successful clubs, play their home matches at the Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, known to supporters simply as "a Luz."
Schjelderup Denies Renewal 'Lies'
Norwegian winger Andreas Schjelderup wrote that people should stop spreading lies, posting the message on a Benfica supporters' page that had republished news reports about a possible contract renewal, Correio da Manhã reported.
Schjelderup's contract runs until 2028. He has received a proposal to extend it but has not yet responded, according to the newspaper, which said the winger is seeking 4 million euros a year to sign a new deal.
New Signing From Flamengo
Benfica also announced the signing of Alan Santos, a 19-year-old winger from Brazilian club Flamengo, who will join the club's under-23 team, according to the report.
Palhinha Transfer Latest
Correio da Manhã also carried separate reports on the pursuit of midfielder Palhinha. One noted that he had landed in Lisbon but was not yet officially a Benfica player.
Another report said Palhinha had passed his medical examination and would be presented as a Benfica signing the following day.
A further report said Silva had called for urgency in bringing in reinforcements for the squad.
