Nuno Gomes ‘would love’ Arsenal defender David Luiz to re-join Benfica
Last Updated: February 26, 2021 9:55 am
Luiz welcome at Benfica
Arsenal face Benfica in their second leg of the last 32 in the Europa League. Expected to start is Brazilian centre-back David Luiz who left Benfica to join Chelsea many seasons ago.
Ex-Benfica man Nuno Gomes has been speaking about the centre-half and explained how he would ‘love’ to see the former Brazil international pull on the red shirt of the Lisbon-based club.
“Let’s see what happens,” said Gomes.
“I remember that when he left Benfica he was very well adapted to Portugal in terms of his career on the pitch and his social life off the pitch. He was like a Portuguese already in terms of his way of life and culture.”
AVEIRO, PORTUGAL – AUGUST 05: Benfica players with Portuguese Super Cup trophy after the match between SL Benfica and VSC Guimaraes at Estadio Municipal de Aveiro on August 05, 2017 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
“He struggled a little bit to leave because he was doing very well and was very well settled here. But the offer that he received he couldn’t refuse.”
“But he always said that one day he wanted to return. I don’t know if it will be possible or not, but I would love it to happen.”
With the likelihood that David Luiz’s contract expiring at the end of the season and likely ending his time at Arsenal, a move to his former side is more than possible especially considering the club’s push to add experience to their backline.
Nicolas Otamendi and Jan Vertonghen both arrived in the summer having left Manchester City and Spurs respectively.
‘Dream’ for Luiz
Interestingly, previous comments suggest that Luiz would be very open to a return to Portugal after claiming that Benfica is the club he dreams of retiring at.
“I already spoke with Vieira about the return,” he said.
“My dream is to end my career at Benfica. When, I don’t know, but it will happen… it will, if President Vieira allows me and if the fans want me to come back.
“It will be one of the most beautiful moments of my career.”
However, despite all of the exit talk, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has hinted that a possible extension to his current deal could happen. The Spanish coach appreciates the experience and quality which Luiz brings to his team.
“No, there are still a few months to go on that. I all the time talk to him about this kind of thing so we’re in a good position,” he said.
David Luiz ‘to be rewarded with new Arsenal contract’ at Mikel Arteta’s requesthttps://t.co/Q2NYl9Bkvi pic.twitter.com/eraGoDTys9
— Mirror Football (@MirrorFootball) February 14, 2021
“He showed his character first of all with the decision he made to join the club when he was with a club where he was winning trophies and he was still comfortable and under contract.”
Depending on how the Brazilian performs from now until the end of the season could have a serious impact on the decision-making processes of those in the management and executive levels. Or, Luiz may choose his own path back to Portugal and reject any offer from the club.
Benfica want Gedson Fernandes to return 6 months early having failed to impress at Spurs
Mikel Arteta coy on possibility of David Luiz staying at Arsenal beyond current contract
This article was edited by Josh Barker.
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