Benfica is grappling with significant tactical uncertainty and a depleted squad, especially in wide attacking roles, ahead of its upcoming European fixture in Amsterdam.
The club’s coach recently experimented with a three-central-defender system, prompting questions about its continued use. This tactical shift is being considered amid a notable shortage of traditional wingers.
Forward Lukebakio will be unavailable for approximately three months. He recently underwent surgery on his left ankle.
Attacking midfielder Georgiy Sudakov’s potential return to the starting lineup remains uncertain. He had been released early from the Ukrainian national team due to a muscle overload.
Sudakov completed his recovery at the club’s training center. He was named to the squad for a recent match but did not play, remaining on the bench.
Another player, Pavlidis, started a recent game despite recovering from a left knee trauma. The injury had led to his early substitution in Greece’s first international game and his premature return to Portugal.
The coach has not clarified whether he intends to maintain the three-central-defender formation for the upcoming match.
The team trained yesterday, focusing on their trip to Amsterdam. This followed their victory against Atlético.