Benfica's head coach Marco Silva has called for a strong competitive spirit as the team gears up for their Europa League opener against Swiss side St. Gallen on Thursday. Silva stressed the importance of starting the 2026/27 season on a high note, especially given the atypical preseason the team has experienced.

In a press conference, Silva stated, "It is crucial to begin in the best possible way and be competitive, considering the current moment and our unusual preseason. Our goal is to advance to the next round. We aim for a good game and a favorable result tomorrow, knowing we will have a home match in the second leg."

Benfica, who finished third in the Portuguese Primeira Liga last season, is looking to overcome three preliminary rounds to reach the group stage of the Europa League. This follows their missed opportunity for a sixth consecutive participation in the Champions League.

Silva acknowledged the club's rich history, noting, "We understand the greatness of the club we represent. Any favoritism must be proven on the field, not anticipated based on how accessible the task may seem. We will face an opponent that had a very good season, competing well in both the league and the Swiss Cup. Regardless of our preseason situation, we must be serious and professional, as is our duty."

This match will mark Silva's official debut with Benfica, having joined the club after five seasons with Fulham in England, succeeding José Mourinho, who returned to Real Madrid.

Silva highlighted the strengths of St. Gallen, describing them as a physically strong team that likes to press and engage in many duels, emphasizing the need for Benfica to impose their style of play.

In terms of player availability, Leandro Barreiro missed the morning training session due to a respiratory infection, joining Joshua Wynder and Jaden Umeh on the injury list. The squad traveling to Switzerland consists of 24 players, with new signings Clément Lenglet and Jakub Kaminski included, although the coach admitted to having a limited number of midfield options.

As the team prepares for this crucial match, Silva reminded everyone that competing on July 22 is not typical for a club of Benfica's stature. He also confirmed that players like Amar Dedic and Tomás Araújo are not yet ready to participate due to their involvement in the 2026 World Cup.

Regarding potential transfers, Silva addressed speculation about António Silva's imminent move to Bournemouth, stating that the defender participated in preseason matches because he was fit to play and train. He emphasized that any player showing a lack of commitment would not be part of the training or upcoming matches.

Benfica will face St. Gallen at 20:00 local time (19:00 in Lisbon) at the Sitter Stadium, with Italian referee Luca Pairetto officiating. The two teams will meet again on July 30 in Lisbon for the second leg, with the winner set to face a team relegated from the Champions League qualifiers, either Sturm Graz or Hearts, who recently suffered a heavy defeat.