While many teammates packed their bags for a short break, one player chose a different path. Bruno Lage, the manager, offered four days off to those not on national duty. But Lukebakio, a new arrival, turned down the chance to rest. He joined the club with a minor injury. Now, he is heading to Benfica Campus every single day. His goal is simple: get back on the field faster. He wants to be ready for Lage as soon as possible.
The international break often leaves clubs with quiet training grounds. Lage certainly felt that quiet. Only seven players remained available to him at this time. Most of the squad went off to play for their countries. Of those seven, only two regularly start for the coach. These are Aursnes and Enzo Barrenechea. Then there is the injured list: Bah, Manu, Nuno Félix, Bruma, and Lukebakio. Lukebakio stands alone here too. He is the only one among the injured who will not take a single day off. His recovery grind continues without a pause.
The main group will finally gather again next Monday. They will meet back at the Benfica Campus. Training then starts for the match against Santa Clara. That game is set for the 12th. Some international stars might be back by then. They could be ready for the coach’s plans. But two players will arrive even later. Otamendi plays for Argentina on the 10th. Richard Ríos represents Colombia on the same day. These two will be the very last to report back to the club.