Benfica Initiates Talks with Manchester City to End Issa Kaboré’s Loan Early
Benfica has reportedly begun discussions with Manchester City to terminate Issa Kaboré’s loan spell earlier than planned. According to Record, the Portuguese club is eager to cut ties with the 23-year-old full-back following a turbulent few months since his arrival this past summer.
Initially signed to bolster the team until the end of the season, Kaboré has struggled to meet expectations, prompting Benfica to consider an early exit for the player in January.
The club’s directors, including President Rui Costa, are actively working towards a resolution, with talks already underway with Manchester City.
A Disappointing Spell in Portugal
Kaboré’s tenure at Benfica has been far from ideal. The defender has only managed six appearances this season, totaling 192 minutes on the pitch.
Despite his promising performances during a loan stint with Luton Town in the Premier League last season, he has failed to replicate that form in Portugal.
Brought in as a competitor for the right-back position alongside Alexander Bah, Kaboré has struggled to earn the trust of manager Bruno Lage. In fact, Lage has resorted to using Tomás Araújo, a center-back by trade, as a makeshift right-back instead of relying on Kaboré.
The Search for a Solution
Benfica’s dissatisfaction with Kaboré’s performances has reached a point where the club no longer sees value in keeping him until the end of the season.
Initially seen as a key reinforcement, his lackluster contributions and failure to integrate effectively into the squad have left Benfica seeking an exit strategy.
As negotiations with Manchester City continue, the outcome remains uncertain. However, it is clear that Kaboré’s chapter in Lisbon is unlikely to last much longer.
This development is a stark contrast to the high hopes Benfica had for the young defender when they brought him in.
For Kaboré, this turn of events represents a significant challenge as he looks to reignite his career after an underwhelming stint at one of Portugal’s top clubs.
