Rui Costa ‘to back’ Tomás Araújo as Benfica’s defensive leader in 2026/27 | OneFootball

Benfica are preparing to hand Tomás Araújo a leading role in 2026/27, with Rui Costa’s board viewing the centre-back as the new defensive leader. Record reports that the club plan to back the number 44 as a first-choice and build around him next season.

The SAD is said to be very satisfied with his performances and intends to keep him with an enhanced status. If that scenario materialises, his pay would increase, either through a renewal or via appearance-related progression.

The report sets out two main points, Benfica’s belief and bet that Araújo will lead the defence from next season, and that Nicolás Otamendi’s departure at the end of the campaign is gathering momentum despite contrary rumours.

Rui Costa’s hierarchy want to harness the 23-year-old’s rising profile. He renewed his deal in 2024 and has since established a consistent presence in the back line.

This season he has played 36 competitive matches for Benfica, 20 in Liga Portugal Betclic, nine in the Champions League, four in the Taça de Portugal, two in the Taça da Liga and one in the Liga Portugal Meu Super. Across 2,538 minutes he has recorded one goal and one assist. He is valued at 28 million euros.

Source: Glorioso 1904