The official announcement of the new Benfica coach is just hours away, and there is already a name that is practically set to succeed Roger Schmidt. According to the newspaper A Bola, it is indeed Bruno Lage, who is expected to return to Luz to lead the team.
The same source assures that Rui Costa has approached several coaches; however, the Portuguese coach has always been a preference for the red and white structure, with the emphasis on hiring a Portuguese coach. Additionally, Bruno Lage is a name that is well-regarded even among the supporters of the Glorioso.
According to information provided by the sports daily, on Wednesday, September 4, the main reason for Benfica considering signing Bruno Lage is the fact that the former coach is well aware of the realities of Portuguese football and the Club da Luz itself.
Another reason is that the current ‘Reconquista’ coach is without a club, aligning with the profile defined by Rui Costa’s management for the new Benfica coach. In this regard, the former coach of the Eagles’ formation is practically settled as the successor to Roger Schmidt, who left his position last weekend after a meeting with the President.
It is also important to highlight that former players like Grimaldo and Rafa ‘approved’ the choice of Bruno Lage. The champions at Benfica praised the former coach, recalling his time with the first team and lamenting the end of Bruno Lage’s connection with the Glorioso at that time.
It should be noted that since Roger Schmidt’s departure, many names have been linked to the coaching position. These include Fatih Terim, Leonardo Jardim, Abel Ferreira, Massimiliano Allegri, Mark van Bommel, and Mancini. But it is Bruno Lage who has emerged as the one closest to heading to Luz. If this happens, it would be a return to the red Club.
Remember that Bruno Lage took over the technical command of Benfica after Rui Vitória’s departure, at a time when the Eagles were in ‘rough waters’, in 2018/19. The coach from Setúbal managed to significantly reduce the gap to first place and secured the National Championship, rising from fourth place to the top.