Rui Costa, the president of Benfica, is currently making his case across the country. He travels to various Benfica fan clubs, asking members to keep their faith in his vision. This Saturday, in Castro Verde, he faced a tough truth. Benfica hasn’t won as many trophies as everyone hoped over the past four years. Still, he insists the club has built a stronger foundation for future success.
The legendary former player, often called “the maestro” by fans, spoke with conviction. He declared his ambition, determination, and sense of duty are as strong as ever. “We aimed for more titles, that’s true,” he admitted. “But we know the work we put in. I have no doubt the club is better prepared to win now than it was four years ago.” He stressed that their efforts go beyond just lifting trophies. Benfica is ready at all levels, he said, in both football and other sports. Winning titles is still the goal, and he guarantees the club is more prepared to do just that.
Costa also took a moment to criticize those who chose to stay away from the club’s leadership four years ago. “It was exactly four years ago yesterday that I became president,” he noted. “Those were tough times. Everyone knew it wouldn’t be easy.” Back then, only two people stepped forward to run. “Everyone else ran,” he stated plainly. “I couldn’t say no to Benfica then, and I certainly can’t now. You don’t give up on this club.” He promised to keep working to improve, win titles, and make Benfica bigger. He will do this for as long as the members want him leading the club.
A Turn in Fortunes
Today, the landscape looks very different. Six candidates are vying for the top job. Costa pointed to this as proof of the club’s good health. “People often say Benfica spent too much, that Rui Costa spent too much,” he explained. “But if Benfica was in a bad financial spot, six candidates wouldn’t show up. When things are tough, you don’t see so many people wanting the job.” He emphasized that anyone running knows the club isn’t facing financial troubles. “My love for this club means sport comes first, then finances,” Costa said. “I would never leave the club in financial danger. The club’s money is there to support our sports teams, not the other way around.”