Benfica’s Club World Cup Clash and Transfer Saga Unfolds Amidst Dramatic Conditions

Charlotte, NC – June 28, 2025 SL Benfica’s Club World Cup journey reached a dramatic crescendo as they faced Chelsea in a high-stakes Round of 16 match in Charlotte, delayed earlier due to inclement weather and resuming at 7:25 PM local time. With Chelsea holding a 1-0 lead and only minutes left on the clock, Benfica found themselves in a do-or-die scenario, battling to keep their tournament hopes alive.

Beyond the pitch, Benfica’s presence in Charlotte has been marked by a flurry of transfer activity and off-field intrigue. The club is reportedly exploring a move for a Barcelona midfielder, while veteran defender and captain Nicolas Otamendi has reinforced the team’s spine by signing a contract extension through 2026.

In a significant twist, Benfica is actively pursuing the return of João Félix, the former academy star currently at Chelsea. Reports indicate Benfica is preparing a bid worth £25.6 million (approximately $35 million) for the 25-year-old forward, whose career has stalled since leaving Portugal in 2019. However, negotiations are complicated by Félix’s lucrative long-term contract with Chelsea, which runs until 2031 and reportedly pays him £130,000 per week. Both clubs are said to be using their Club World Cup encounter in Charlotte as an opportunity for in-person talks regarding the potential deal.

Meanwhile, Benfica’s president Rui Costa and head coach Bruno Lage have publicly addressed transfer speculation surrounding defender Álvaro Carreras, who is wanted by Real Madrid. Costa has denied any agreement with the Spanish giants, emphasizing that Carreras remains a Benfica player for now and will feature in the Club World Cup squad.

As the tournament progresses, Benfica’s dual focus on on-field success and squad reinforcement keeps fans and analysts on alert, cementing the club’s place at the center of the global football conversation.