Official: Rui Costa signs player for Benfica who admits he was left stunned | OneFootball

It's official. Carissa Boeckmann has been unveiled as the newest signing for the Benfica women's football team - which recently saw Andreia Faria depart for Saudi Arabia. The American midfielder is 22 years old, arrives from Portland Thorns, a club in the NWSL, and has signed with the club led by Rui Costa until 2027.

"I’m super excited to get started. It’s an incredible club, an incredible culture, an incredible environment. I’m really excited," she told BTV. When asked about how she felt upon learning of the Portuguese champions’ interest, the new player said she was in shock.

"I was a bit shocked at first, but at the same time, very excited. When I heard about the opportunity, I thought: 'I have to do it!'" she revealed. The Eagles’ new signing was a teammate of Marie Alidou at the American club.

"Yes, I spoke with her. She had amazing things to say. She told me: 'You have to go, you’ll fit in, it’s going to be incredible!' She only had good things to say. She said the girls are amazing, the competition is top level, it’s unique, the atmosphere, everything." Carissa Boeckmann set her goals for 2025/26.

"I’d say the success of my whole team, since it’s a team sport. I want to win, with the team, the Champions League—obviously that’s the goal—and the Championship. And, individually, I think about how to make an impact, doing whatever I can for the team," she stated.

In conclusion, the young footballer left a message for the fans: "Honestly, I’m looking forward to getting started and meeting you all, to introduce myself to you. I hope you keep supporting us and that we can give back as much as you give us," she finished.

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