Who could captain Benfica after Otamendi’s exit | OneFootball

Benfica must choose a new captain after Nicolás Otamendi’s move to River Plate, with José Mourinho’s successor as head coach still unconfirmed.

António Silva emerges as the leading option. According to Glorioso 1904, the Seixal-trained centre-back wore the armband several times last season when Otamendi was absent.

His first opportunity came away to Casa Pia on the 11th round of the I Liga, his first match as captain in 2025/26. He later led the side at home to Vitória de Guimarães on matchday 27, when Benfica fielded an unusual centre-back pairing of Tomás Araújo and Enzo Barrenechea.

Quieter alternatives, but credible ones, include Fredrik Aursnes and Leandro Barreiro. They are not typically highlighted by supporters as dressing-room leaders, yet both command respect and maintain close ties within the squad.

With pre-season approaching, selecting the new captain promises to be among the first calls for the incoming coaching staff. The decision comes during a transition that could reshape the hierarchy inside Benfica’s dressing room.

Source: Glorioso 1904