As fans browse match previews and Crickex Sign Up updates ahead of Benfica’s new campaign, one story has captured everyone’s attention. When the 61-year-old tactician José Mourinho returned to the dugout to take charge of Benfica, his first major decision stunned both pundits and supporters: he scrapped his long-favored tactical system entirely. Known for organizing his midfield around technically gifted playmakers with high passing accuracy, Mourinho has now pushed these same players into exhausting wide defensive roles. The football world can’t help but wonder what lies behind this unexpected shift.
At first glance, his 4-4-2 setup looks traditional, even conservative, but beneath the surface it hides a clever twist reminiscent of his early Chelsea years with Willian. The plan centers around unlocking the creativity and agility of Georgiy Sudakov, Benfica’s new record signing. Mourinho hopes the Ukrainian’s quick feet can pierce defensive gaps on the left side, turning tight spaces into chances. Yet reality hasn’t matched theory. In the Champions League clash against Newcastle, Sudakov appeared uncomfortable on the wing, mistiming passes and runs with teammates. His 1.77-meter frame, fine for finesse play, often left him second best in the Premier League-style physical duels, unable to hold possession under pressure.
The expectations are immense. Benfica paid 32 million euros for Sudakov, smashing their previous record of 29.7 million for Orkun Kökçü. That price tag has become a heavy crown. Every misstep is magnified, and every miscommunication sparks new doubts. Mourinho, however, sees the move as an investment in evolution rather than nostalgia. Modern football thrives on high pressing and pace, leaving the traditional playmaker’s role shrinking. Sudakov, with his flair but limited physical edge, fits awkwardly into this new reality. Even his muted performances at the European Championship fueled concerns that he might struggle to justify his fee.
Benfica’s transfer philosophy has long focused on “buy to develop and sell for profit.” To safeguard that model, the club reportedly inserted a clause lowering Sudakov’s future sell-on percentage from 25 to 15 if a six-million-euro fee is paid later. This means Mourinho must make the signing work—quickly. His 4-4-2 isn’t just an old-school shape; it’s a recalibration of roles. In midfield, Enzo Ríos presses high and breaks lines, while Enzo Barrenechea provides cover, creating a two-shield structure that balances defense and possession. This framework opens corridors for Sudakov to cut inside while protecting the team’s shape.
Up front, Mourinho’s hallmark pragmatism shines. Vangelis Pavlidis, not the most prolific scorer, serves as the physical anchor in the box, holding up play and linking moves. Behind him, Antonio Frano plays as the “shadow striker,” hunting second balls and loose rebounds. The setup may sacrifice flair, but it strengthens transitions, adding stability and rhythm to the attack. Despite the growing pressure, Sudakov’s response has been admirable. Determined to justify his fee, he’s worked through injuries to stay available for the Portuguese Cup and Champions League fixtures. “Working with Mourinho is my dream,” he told reporters. “He knows how to convince you—you start believing, and then you achieve.”
That trust marks a new chapter in Mourinho’s managerial style. Unlike his stormy Tottenham spell, where tension often overshadowed tactics, he now blends discipline with encouragement—offering both carrot and stick to motivate his squad. Still, results remain mixed. Benfica were stunned by Newcastle’s comeback in Europe and dropped points against Rio Ave after a stoppage-time equalizer. Communication gaps haven’t helped either. Sudakov mainly interacts with Norwegian teammates Fredrik Aursnes and Andreas Schjelderup, while language barriers with Latin players sometimes blur tactical precision.
Mourinho’s career has always been rich in drama, and this project is no exception. The parallels with his past are striking—especially with Giovani Lo Celso, the gifted but inconsistent midfielder who never fully adapted to the Premier League tempo at Tottenham. Whether Sudakov’s story ends differently depends on how well Mourinho can refine this bold experiment. For Benfica, it’s more than just a football decision; it’s a financial statement wrapped in tactical risk. Fans tracking every highlight and Crickex Sign Up update can only hope that this high-stakes gamble pays off—because in football, as in life, fortune often favors the brave.