Benfica Exit Officialized: "One of the Most Important Chapters of My Life"

It's now official. After five seasons and with his contract expiring, Lucas França is departing Benfica. The Brazilian center announced his decision on Monday via social media, confirming his return to Brazil to play for Suzano Vôlei.

"The time has come to close one of the most important chapters of my life, understanding that God's thoughts and purposes are beyond our comprehension. After 5 years wearing the Benfica jersey, I bid farewell with a heart full of gratitude, pride, and many memories that I will carry forever," he began, reflecting on another season where objectives weren't met.

"These were intense years. Of triumphs, defeats, pressure, learning, growth, and daily dedication. Things didn't always go as we dreamed, especially in recent seasons and this past year, where the results fell short of what this club deserves and what we ourselves expected. And perhaps that's why this farewell carries a different weight, but that's also part of sports," he explained, also touching on the positive aspects.

"Winning titles doesn't always define everything. Often, it's the difficult moments that truly shape an athlete and a man. I felt honored every day I stepped onto the court representing this great club. I'm proud to have shared the locker room with incredible people, to have fought great battles, and to have given my all while I was here," he affirmed, adding a final note.

"Thank you, my God, for the opportunity, to all the teammates I had the pleasure of meeting and working with, coaches, staff, and the fans who were present throughout this journey. The support, the demands, the applause, and even the difficult moments were all part of building my history within the club. Thank you for everything, Benfica. This story will always be a part of me," he concluded.