Benfica starter sees Club World Cup as a unique chance to shine | OneFootball

Benfica are willing to listen to offers for Franjo Ivanovic in the next summer transfer window, just one year after investing €22.8 million to sign the Croatian striker from Union St. Gilloise. Despite the disappointing season, there is still hope at the Estádio da Luz of recovering part of the investment.

Benfica’s board believe the 2026 World Cup could be decisive in completely changing the picture surrounding the 22-year-old centre-forward. Internally, there is a conviction that a strong showing for Croatia could boost the player’s value on the international market.

José Mourinho wants a striker — and there is already a target — with different characteristics from Ivanovic and has already made that clear to Benfica’s hierarchy. The coach is looking for a more physical, positional striker who is stronger in front of goal, which opens the door to a possible departure for the Croatian international, whether on loan or through a permanent transfer.

After starting the season as a first-choice player under Bruno Lage and keeping his place in the first matches under Mourinho, Ivanovic gradually lost prominence over the course of the season. Even so, the last few matches have shown positive signs, especially after his brace against Moreirense and his good performance against Famalicão.

Mourinho’s recent comments also had an impact in Croatia. “I would very much like him to be called up for the World Cup. He deserves it a lot”, said the Benfica manager, words that quickly sparked debate in the striker’s homeland.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.