20.02.2026 16:02
After leaving Beşiktaş and returning to Benfica, Rafa Silva became the focus of criticism in the Portuguese press. His performance was criticized following the 1-0 defeat against Real Madrid. In a comment published in A Bola, one of Portugal's leading sports newspapers, it was noted that Silva's physical capacity is far from his former level. Additionally, it was mentioned that the re-signing of a player who left without renewing his contract at a high cost has also sparked controversy.
After leaving Beşiktaş in a controversial manner, Rafa Silva returned to Benfica and has once again become the focus of criticism in the Portuguese press. The 32-year-old player came into the spotlight due to his performance following the 1-0 defeat against Real Madrid.
A BOLA: RAFA CREATED A PROBLEM
In a commentary published in A Bola, one of Portugal's leading sports newspapers, Rafa Silva's inclusion in the starting eleven was criticized. The article pointed out that Sudakov only played for 15 minutes, while emphasizing that Rafa's physical capacity is far from his former level.
The report stated, "Rafa's game efficiency is largely dependent on his physical capacity. After not playing for a few weeks and going on strike at Beşiktaş, he is currently at a very distant level. He was completely ineffective in the Real Madrid match and earned 3 points."
"FAR FROM THE OLD RAFA"
The article noted that there is a significant difference between Rafa Silva's performance now and that of 1 year and 6 months ago. It was recalled that he presented himself as a player who carried his team in the Champions League at that time, while his current form has fallen short of expectations.
Additionally, it was mentioned that the discussion arose over the re-signing of a player who left without renewing his contract at a high cost.
TACTICAL BALANCES HAVE CHANGED
It was noted that head coach José Mourinho experimented with different formulas throughout the season, and with Sudakov playing behind Pavlidis, the team achieved a more balanced structure, while it was commented that the clarity of the attacking organization was lost during the moments Rafa was on the field.