Mário Branco under pressure! Window may decide Benfica chief's fate | OneFootball

Benfica is going through a demanding transitional period after a season below expectations, with direct consequences for planning the next transfer window. Without the usual millions linked to the Champions League, the club’s structure will have to redefine priorities and adjust investment to rebuild a competitive team.

In this scenario, Mário Branco takes on a decisive role in the Club of Light’s immediate future. The general director for football arrived about a year ago from Fenerbahçe and, despite a spell that still lacks full internal consensus, he retains the confidence of the presidency led by Rui Costa.

The executive’s continuity now opens the door to possible redemption. The upcoming summer window will be seen as a crucial opportunity to correct past decisions, such as signings that did not deliver on the pitch — examples being Sidny Cabral and Dodi Lukebakio — and build a more balanced squad capable of putting Benfica back in the fight for domestic titles.

However, the financial context heavily constrains the strategy. The absence of the high revenues from the Champions League forces more careful management, with a focus on targeted solutions and less margin for error in signings.

after a season marked by disputed decisions and episodes that increased the pressure on his work at the Club of Light, such as criticism of the refereeing.

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