“The situation is clear”: Benfica boss discusses potential permanent stay for “talented” Alvaro Fernandez | OneFootball

Benfica boss Roger Schmidt has insisted that the situation of Manchester United loanee Alvaro Fernandez remains open and no final decision has been made regarding a potential permanent stay.

Fernandez saw his six-month spell at La Liga outfit Granada CF Cut short in favour of completing a surprise switch to Benfica in January.

The full-back had to be patient to get a solid opportunity to demonstrate his abilities at the Primeira Liga champions, who are battling to win a record-extending 39th top-flight crown.

On Sunday night, Fernandez finally got his chance as he made his first appearance for the Eagles since a 12-minute off-the-bench cameo against Estoril on the 10th of March.

He impressed as Benfica convincingly beat Moreirense 3-0 in Lisbon. The United loanee registered a pass completion rate of 91%, successfully delivered three crosses, made three clearances and as many tackles.

The Spaniard’s contributions were not lost on club manager Roger Schmidt, who branded him as “talented”.

After the final whistle, Schmidt was asked by reporters whether he and his Benfica bosses had already made a transfer decision on Fernandez.

The 57-year-old coach replied, “The situation is clear, he is on loan and there is the option of him staying at Benfica.”

“It’s an open process. He hasn’t had much playing time, because Aursnes has played well, but he is a talented player and there is an option for him to stay.”

He added, “We will see what is best for us and for the player. Right now we are focused on finishing the season well, only then will we make the decision.”

“But it was good for him to play today and win.”

Benficas next task is a crucial one – an away trip to Marseille in the quarter-final of the Europa League on Thursday. Fernandez will be hoping that his efforts were enough to earn him a place in the starting XI.

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