Pre-season underway

BTV REPORT

The Sport Lisboa e Benfica B squad showed up for work on Monday, July 7, kicking off preparations for the 2025/26 season. A total of 25 players began this new cycle, with the first few days reserved for medicals and physical evaluations.

On Monday morning and afternoon, the athletes were divided between Hospital da Luz and the Benfica Campus facilities, where they underwent the usual medical checks and physical tests. The same is scheduled for Tuesday morning, July 8, before the first training session.

Winger/midfielder Francisco Neto was one of the 25 players present at this return and spoke to BTV about the group's enthusiasm. “I think everyone is very happy to be back. We had a vacation period and it was good to rest a little and have a little more time with our families, etc. But now we are all eager to get back and do what we love most”, he said.

Also on that day (Tuesday), the coaching staff led by Nélson Veríssimo will hold a presentation meeting at 4:00 pm in the Benfica Campus auditorium. An hour later, at 5:00 pm, the first training session of the new season is scheduled. 

Despite the holidays, the players' work did not stop completely.

“As professionals, we have to work during the holidays, not with the same workload, with a little less, but with a good workload so that we can come back in good shape to have a good pre-season”, said Francisco Neto, emphasizing the Club's planning.

“Of course, it's a bit difficult, and that's why Benfica is sending us training plans to do during the holidays, so that we can come back in the best possible shape, so that it's not so difficult and we can do things more easily”, he added.

On a personal level, the youngster hopes to continue the growth he started last season.

“Last year, I had the opportunity to make my debut in League 2 and get some minutes. This season will be easier for me, but even so, I have to give my best and help my teammates as much as possible”, he assured.