A former challenger in Benfica’s recent presidential elections has urged for immediate unity among the club’s members and leadership, affirming support for re-elected president Rui Costa.
Cristóvão Carvalho, who contested the election, declared his intention to attend an evening match at Estádio da Luz, accepting an invitation from President Costa. This gesture signals a move toward reconciliation following a contentious campaign period.
Speaking to club media after the results were known, Carvalho congratulated Rui Costa’s victorious list. He also acknowledged fellow candidate Noronha Lopes for presenting “excellent work and solutions for Benfica.”
Carvalho emphasized that members ultimately chose Costa’s leadership. He called for all factions to unite around the president and the new board.
“We candidates were Benfica fans who presented projects and we have an excellent relationship as Benfica fans,” Carvalho stated. He added, “Now we are going in the direction of trying to unite the club.”
He stressed the importance of fostering unity within the club’s associative structure. This, he explained, would provide “tranquility” for the football team to “return to winning.”
Carvalho described the electoral period as a “fantastic journey” that offered a deeper understanding of the club and its supporters. He expressed confidence that Rui Costa would fulfill his mandate and that collective efforts would lead to further unification.