"I am very happy at Benfica"

PREVIEW

At the launch of the first leg of the third qualifying round for the Champions League league phase, Schjelderup expressed confidence ahead of Benfica's clash with Nice, scheduled for 8 pm this Wednesday, August 6, at the Grand Stade de Nice.

Speaking to BTV before the preview press conference, the Norwegian international acknowledged the strength of the opposition but predicted that the Eagles would respond well: “We're facing a very strong opponent, but of course we're ready, and we'll travel to France to get a good result to bring back to Lisbon. We're prepared and ready.”

Following the Super Cup, the forward revealed that there is a “great spirit” within the Benfica squad, as “every trophy matters and gives the group energy.”

"We are all very happy and, of course, this gives us extra drive and motivation to keep going. Now we are ready for the Champions League," he added.

Schjelderup also explained that "all the new players have adapted very well and settled into the group very quickly," assuring that "everyone feels very good and is also playing very well."

Looking ahead to this first Champions League game, what kind of opponent are you expecting? And how is Benfica doing at the moment?

We're feeling very good. Of course, Nice are very strong opponents, very physical, but the coach and the team are well-prepared, and we feel very ready for this game.

What influence have the new players had in the dressing room? Do you think Aktürkoğlu will be missed tomorrow [Wednesday, August 6]?

The new players have added a lot to the group. They are also top-quality players, like we already had in the group, and they have adapted very well and are contributing a lot. As for Aktürkoğlu, I don't know. They need to evaluate him with the doctors and see, but I can't answer that question.

Last year, what was your best and worst moment at Benfica?

The best moment was probably winning the League Cup against Sporting. The first trophy of the season was very good. And the worst moment was losing the final [of the Portuguese Cup] against Sporting. That hurt a lot for me, but also for the whole team and the club.

Some reports say that Schjelderup is unhappy at Benfica because he is not getting enough playing time. Does he want more opportunities and to stay at Benfica?

I am very happy at Benfica. I always have been. Of course, like any other player, you want to play as much as possible and contribute as much as possible to the team, but I am working hard every day, especially defensively, to do the job that is necessary for the team and for the coach. In addition, when I arrived this season, I had a bit of a slow start, I needed some time to get into top form, and I feel like I'm there now, where I should be.

I would like to know if you will be in the starting lineup tomorrow [Wednesday, August 6]. This is your fourth season at Benfica. If you fail to establish yourself as a regular starter, could this be your last season at the club?

Regarding the starting lineup, you'll have to ask the coach; I can't answer that, but as I said, since I arrived at Benfica, it has been a dream come true to sign for this incredible club. I am very happy here. Of course, I want to play as much as possible. I am here, and I am ready to play, no matter how many minutes I get.

How do you think your football has improved over the last season? What are your expectations for the new season?

I feel like I'm improving every day, but the areas I need to improve a lot are defensive aspects, as well as being able to run for 90 minutes. On the offensive side, I also need to improve to be at the highest level, to do great things in the Champions League and the Championship. I'm trying to improve every day to give my best for this team and this club.