Millions spent, big names and Benfica on edge: signings let Mourinho down | OneFootball

Benfica invested around more than 100 million euros across the summer and winter transfer windows to strengthen the squad. The major investment brought in 10 new faces, some for high fees, but the immediate impact fell short of expectations. Although some are among the most-used players, most have yet to fully convince.

the coach even admitted he did not want to use certain players. .

Among the investments, Enzo Barrenechea arrived for 3 million euros plus 12 million in add-ons, and even nailed down a starting spot, but then injuries came. Franjo Ivanovic, signed for 22.8 million, lost ground under the "Special One" and went through an entire half of the league season without scoring. Rafael Obrador, meanwhile, cost 5 million and ended up being loaned to Torino after failing to play any minutes under Mourinho.

, in a deal that could reach 27 million, is still struggling with adaptation problems. Richard Ríos, signed for a fixed 27 million, has alternated good moments with criticism. Dodi Lukébakio, who cost 20 million, has scored just one goal and has been hampered by injuries.

Among the exceptions, Amar Dedic, signed for 10 million, has shown positive signs. Rafa Silva returned for 7.5 million, but has still not fully convinced. Sidny Cabral, who cost 6.5 million, has lost space, while Federico Coletta, bought for 1 million, has been playing for the B team.

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