Lukebakio gives Marco Silva a headache at Benfica | OneFootball

The continued stay of Dodi Lukebakio with the Belgium national team has once again created difficulties for Benfica's planning for the start of the new season. The winger remains involved in the international competition and, like Andreas Schjelderup, will return to Seixal later, missing preparations for the first official fixtures.

The Belgium international played a part in the comeback win against Senegal, coming on in the second half and helping secure a 3-2 victory. His performance earned praise from the press in his country, who highlighted the player's attacking influence, reinforcing Marco Silva’s confidence in the qualities of the number 11, who is of interest to Trabzonspor.

With Lukebakio and Schjelderup still away on international duty, Benfica are seeing the need to sign a new winger in this summer transfer window grow. The club’s hierarchy continue to assess several options, and talks for a new wide reinforcement are already underway.

The limitations do not end there, as Gianluca Prestianni will also be unavailable due to suspension. Given this scenario, Marco Silva could turn to Rafa to play on one of the wings, while Bruma and Tiago Gouveia both still have uncertain futures and could even leave the Club of Light during the transfer window.

With few options available, the Benfica coach may also make room for some academy youngsters during pre-season. Jaden Umeh, Edokpolor, Gonçalo Moreira and João Rego are some of the names looking to seize the opportunity to convince Marco Silva and earn a place among the first-team options.

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