Benfica is expected to rotate its squad significantly for their upcoming Taça de Portugal debut against Chaves, with young goalkeeper Samuel Soares anticipated to make his first start under coach José Mourinho.
Soares, an Under-21 international, has previously played two matches this season, but both were under former coach Bruno Lage. This cup tie offers Mourinho an opportunity to rest first-choice goalkeeper Trubin, who typically starts in league and Champions League fixtures.
The potential lineup change underscores Mourinho’s strategy to integrate younger talent and manage player workload across various competitions. Trubin is expected to be on the bench for the Chaves match.
The club completed a training session yesterday as part of their preparations. Five international players have rejoined the squad: António Silva, Gonçalo Oliveira, Obrador, Leandro Barreiro, and Lukebakio.
Three other players remain absent from training: Schjelderup, Otamendi, and Ríos. Mourinho may also feature other young players such as João Veloso, Leandro Santos, and João Rego in the starting eleven.
The team is scheduled to hold another training session today at the Benfica Campus. Mourinho will deliver a pre-match press conference at 13:00 UTC.
Following lunch, the squad will fly to Porto before continuing their journey to Chaves by bus.