Leandro Barreiro has emerged as one of Benfica’s standout performers during the 2025/26 season. Signed on a free transfer from Mainz last year, the Luxembourg international overcame early doubts and established himself as a crucial player under José Mourinho.
The midfielder started Benfica’s last four matches and completed the full 90 minutes against Nacional, Sporting, Moreirense, and Famalicão. Although he missed the game against Casa Pia due to physical limitations after returning from international duty with Luxembourg, Barreiro had already cemented his importance within the squad.
Barreiro has featured in 48 of Benfica’s 53 matches this season, starting 29 of them. The statistics highlight the best campaign of his career so far: he has scored five goals and provided seven assists, improving significantly on his previous records at Mainz.
His physical availability, tactical discipline, and versatility have been highly valued by Mourinho and Benfica’s technical staff. Barreiro has often played in an advanced midfield role behind the striker, where he combines high pressing, defensive recovery, and attacking presence.
His versatility could once again prove essential in Benfica’s upcoming clash against Braga. With Richard Ríos suspended due to yellow card accumulation, Barreiro may be asked to drop deeper into midfield alongside Fredrik Aursnes — a role he is familiar with since his arrival under former coach Roger Schmidt.
The situation is further complicated by Nicolás Otamendi’s suspension following his red card against Famalicão. If Tomás Araújo fails to recover from injury in time, Enzo Barrenechea may be forced into central defense, which would likely move Barreiro into central midfield and create space for Rafa’s return to the attack.
Barreiro’s performances have earned widespread praise within Benfica. Mourinho previously described him as “a Benfica-type player because of his attitude, composure, and versatility. He is a great team player.”
Former Benfica coach Bruno Lage also praised the midfielder, calling him “a soldier every coach wants in his team.”
Before joining Benfica, Barreiro spent six seasons with Mainz in the Bundesliga, making 151 appearances. Since arriving in Lisbon, he has already played 95 matches for Benfica, scoring 11 goals and providing 10 assists. At 26 years old, with a contract running until 2029, he has become one of the most influential players in the squad.
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