Jardel renews contract until 2021

In his ninth season representing Benfica, Jardel extended his contract with the Reds until 2021. “In love with Benfica”, the Brazilian centre-back promises “to continue working with humility and a lot of dedication”.  

“It is a feeling of huge pride and gratitude as well. I am very happy to be able to represent this great team for several years. I am in love with Benfica. I grew a lot here, not just in the sporting aspect, but also as a man and as a father. I thank Benfica a lot for everything they have done for me and I hope to be able to repay all this in the best way possible, which is on the pitch”, he confessed, in statements to BTV.

Working his way up – Avaí, Vitória, Santos, Iraty, Joinville, Ituano and Desportivo Brasil were the emblems he represented in Brazil –, he showed himself in Portugal at Estoril (2009/10) and, then at Olhanense, until he arrived at Luz, where he enriched ins curriculum with trophies – the first was the League Cup on his debut season for the reds.

“I gradually climbed the career ladder, I have always had the dream of wearing the jersey of a big club and I managed to fulfill that childhood dream. I feel happy and honored for representing Benfica. My ambitions were always the best possible and I believe that is why I am here today. I have to continue working with humility above all, and with a lot of dedication to be able to always give my best”, promised the number 33.

“The right word for all this is gratitude”

An unquestionable starter this season, alongside Rúben Dias, the 33-year-old Brazilian is grateful to the Club that welcomed him in January 2011.

“I want to thank the president for the confidence and the trustworthiness in me. My relationship with him is very good, it is the best possible. He is always with us in Seixal, accompanying our work on a daily basis and we get along very well”, he said.

“The right word for all this is gratitude. I will continue doing my best to able to always help Benfica”, he added.

With 221 matches and 14 goals for Benfica, Jardel has more than a dozen trophies won: 4 National Championships, 5 League Cups, 2 Portuguese Cups and 2 Super Cups.

Text: Filipa Fernandes Garcia and Sónia Antunes

Pics: Tânia Paulo / SL Benfica