Benfica set 2026/27 return for 25 June as World Cup complicates plans | OneFootball

Benfica will report back on 25 June, with several first-team players due to be at World Cup 2026, stretching early preparations.

According to O Jogo, the timeline adds complications because the first competitive fixture is scheduled for 23 July in the Europa League second qualifying round. The club plans to grant extra rest to World Cup participants. Four friendlies are pencilled in, with opponents and dates to be confirmed, and the programme could depend on the new head coach as José Mourinho’s future remains uncertain amid interest from Real Madrid.

Richard Ríos, Amar Dedic, Sidny Cabral, Tomás Araújo, Fredrik Aursnes, Andreas Schjelderup and Dodi Lukebakio are confirmed for the tournament with their national teams.

Gianluca Prestianni is still awaiting a possible call-up and Franjo Ivanovic is on Croatia’s reserve list. Benfica could therefore open pre-season without several prominent names.

Besiktas, Twente, Tromso, St. Gallen and Hammarby are among potential opponents in the second qualifying round, with other scenarios dependent on early ties and the cup finals in Israel and Cyprus.

Source: Glorioso 1904