Official: Rafa Silva returns to Benfica (Video) | OneFootball

It's official! Rafa Silva is back at Benfica. The announcement was made late this Thursday afternoon, January 22, through the official communication channels of the Eagles. In the press release, the club provides some context about the deal and the player's contract. Hours earlier, the media had already reported how much he would earn at the Estádio da Luz.

In the statement shared on the club's official website, the following information can be read: "The forward Rafa, 32 years old, is a new addition to the professional football team of Sport Lisboa e Benfica". Thus, the return of the former Portuguese international is confirmed.

In the same note, the Eagles reveal the number the footballer will wear, as well as the duration of his new contract with the Estádio da Luz club: "The new owner of the Eagles' number 27 shirt has transferred from Besiktas to the Glorious, signing a contract valid until 2028".

This brings to an end the saga of Rafa Silva. It should be recalled that this whole situation began back in November 2025, when the player clashed with the coach and management of Besiktas, refusing to play for the club and demanding to leave the Black Eagles during the winter transfer window, where Benfica was pointed out as the player's choice.

In the current season, playing for Besiktas, Rafa Silva — valued at five million euros — played 16 official matches: 10 in the Turkish League, four in the Conference League, and two in the Europa League qualifying phase. In the 1,360 minutes played, the player scored five goals and provided three assists.

Check out the video shared by Benfica:

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