Benfica add Villarreal to Algarve friendlies after Flamengo | OneFootball

Benfica have added Villarreal to their pre-season schedule, the Spanish side joining Flamengo in a pair of Algarve friendlies. Marco Silva’s squad officially report on 25 June to begin preparations for 2026/27.

The Estádio Algarve will stage both matches, Flamengo on 11 July at 19:30, then Villarreal on 17 July at 19:45. Record writes that several academy players have been selected to work with the first team in pre-season.

Two further warm-ups are expected behind closed doors, likely at Benfica Campus, on four and eight July, with opponents still to be confirmed.

The first competitive fixture is set for 23 July, when Benfica host St. Gallen in the first leg of the Europa League second qualifying round.

The group includes João Fonseca, Rui Silva, Miguel Figueiredo, Gonçalo Moreira, Jaden Umeh and Peter Edokpolor. The plan is to give Silva a closer look at leading youth prospects.

Some of the group worked with the senior side last season, others arrive after standout spells in the academy and B team. Pre-season will also help identify internal options who could earn roles across 2026/27.

Source: Glorioso 1904