Owner of the left side of Benfica Season 2013/14Guilherme Siqueira gave an interview to the newspaper towhere he recalled his time at Luz, as well as the opportunity to represent Real Madrid, before arriving at the team led by Jorge Jesus.
“After three years in Granada, I knew there was interest from Real Madrid. They told me that the process would not be easy or quick, because Coentrao had to get out of there. There was also interest from Liverpool, but I declined because I wanted to wait for Real Madrid. Plus, Benfica was on the table, because their boss liked me. “After we played in pre-season with Granada, the first match in La Liga was against Real Madrid.”
“I didn't play, but in the tunnel I spoke with Marcelo and he asked me if I would sign or not. Cristiano passed behind me and asked me the same question. I made a joke and told him that if his compatriot left, he could leave. In the next match, Ancelotti said the team was closed, and he wouldn't be there.” In or out, but on the last day, when I had nothing and was going to stay in Granada, my agent called me to say that Benfica wanted me on loan.
“I took a plane, and when I got on the plane, Kiki Pena and my agent called me. They told me that Coentrao was leaving and that I was signing for Real Madrid. As soon as I arrived in Lisbon, I signed my contract and became a Real Madrid player. It was late and we were all happy, but José Angel Sanchez called me and told me that the documents from Coentrao and Manchester United had not arrived in time and that the deal could not be completed.”
“Jose Angel Sanchez told me to return to Granada and that we would sign a preliminary contract for January. I said no. I was in Lisbon and signed with Benfica. Everything was agreed with Real Madrid, the salary and the years of the contract. I was going to play for three years in the white shirt,” he said, before expressing Expressing his gratitude for the path he has achieved.
“At Benfica we won three national titles and played in the Europa League final. I got to know Jorge Jesus and the club. In fact, I regret not signing for more seasons with Benfica than not going to Real Madrid. I used to tell him that. Even though my career ended early, I am grateful to have played for Atletico, Benfica, Granada and Valencia and to have been one step away from Real Madrid.”
Agatha Christie is a journalist and feature writer specialising in culture, entertainment, books, and current affairs. She is committed to producing accurate, informative content that helps readers stay informed about the latest developments in the UK and beyond.
