Former Benfica Star Shines in Serie A: “I Always Think About the Next Game”

Gustavo Varela, enjoying a stellar start to the season with Monza, spoke to reporters before the Portugal U21 national team's departure for Germany, a stopover en route to Bulgaria. The former Benfica forward previewed the upcoming clash against the Bulgarian side, the penultimate qualifying match for the 2027 European Championship, and also discussed his current individual form.

“It's going to be a very tough game; Bulgaria is an organized team that transitions well. We need to be prepared, play our best, and try to win to get closer to qualification. We are very confident. We believe strongly in ourselves, in our players and teammates. We are a very united squad. We need to keep going and achieve our goal. Our objective is qualification. A win against Bulgaria will bring us closer. We want to win and keep a clean sheet. But that comes step by step, and we'll see what happens,” the young attacker stated at Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon.

Gustavo Varela has netted five goals in six appearances for Monza, including one against Inter in Milan.

“I try to do my best. I know that by performing well for my club, I get closer to the national team. I just need to keep going, always trying my best. No one expects to always be at the highest level, but we work for it, and all players are ready to give their all,” said Gustavo Varela, who, before his move to Italy, impressed with Benfica B and Gil Vicente in the top flight. “Going through those stages helped me a lot. My hard work also helps me prove myself. It's still very early in the season. I have to keep working and showing what I can do. That's what all players want,” he added, confessing he doesn't have a specific individual goal.

“It's to score in the next game. I always think that way. I don't think too far ahead. Expectations can mess with a player's head. I always focus on the next game and try to do my best,” he concluded.