Schmidt hints at departure from Benfica following further fan protests

Benfica played their last home game of the season on Sunday evening, during which the Portuguese national title was claimed by city rivals Sporting Portugal.

A segment of the supporters of the Primeira Liga's second-placed team expressed their discontent with Schmidt, who has faced criticism from fans multiple times this season.

"These people are given far too much attention," Schmidt said during a press conference after the match, when asked about his reaction to the protests. "One thing is clear, under these circumstances, you cannot become champion. It's impossible. If my departure is the solution, then I need to have a discussion with the club."

"This cannot continue like this for another season," said the criticized coach. "On the other hand, we also need to focus more on the real Benfica supporters the men, women, boys, girls, grandfathers, and grandmothers who continue to support their club. The question is how we can get everyone behind us again."

The German coach, who won the Portuguese championship last season and remained undefeated for a long time during that campaign, found Sporting Portugal to be too strong this season: the gap with the champions is eight points with one round of games left. Schmidt, who has a contract until mid-2026, moved from PSV in the summer of 2022.