Rui Costa secures loan for 18-year-old striker Anisse Saidi at Benfica | OneFootball

Rui Costa has finalised the loan signing of Tunisia youth international Anisse Saidi, 18, for Benfica. According to Glorioso 1904, the deal runs until the end of 2026/27 and includes an option to buy.

The forward will start with Benfica’s Under-23s. He has been with San Diego since 2025 and made a first-team debut for the American club at 16.

In recent months Saidi was loaned to Monterey Bay, making seven appearances and scoring once. He now prepares for his first step into European football and a debut in Benfica colours.

Saidi said he is joining a huge club, highlighting the scale of the stadium and the support, and called it a dream move. He added that he brings big ambitions and believes Benfica offers the platform to pursue them.

The dual national, Tunisian and American, said early impressions inside the set-up have been excellent after meeting staff and settling in. He outlined big aims and hopes to reach the first team. He also played at the last Under-17 World Cup, featuring in four matches and scoring once.

Source: Glorioso 1904

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