“The Door is Still Open” – Bernardo Eyes Benfica Return Despite Celtic Focus

Celtic midfielder Paulo Bernardo has expressed his dream of a return to his boyhood club Benfica, despite his commitment to his current role at Celtic.

The 22-year-old, who moved to Glasgow from Benfica last summer on loan before making it permanent this year, has stepped up impressively to fill the gap left by Matt O’Riley’s departure to Brighton, catching the eye with his performances in the Scottish Premiership and during the international break with Portugal’s U21 side.

Speaking with O Jogo, Bernardo reflected on his deep connection to Benfica while making it clear that his focus remains on his current chapter at Celtic. “My dream has always been to play for Benfica, and I think the door is still open,” Bernardo said. “For me, it is still open, and if I return one day, I will be very happy.”

However, the midfielder was quick to make clear his contentment at Celtic, highlighting his ambition to succeed with the Scottish champions. “I’m happy at Celtic. I signed a five-year contract, I’m focused there, and I’m not thinking about the future but about having a great season.”

Bernardo has shown that he’s a top-quality player. He’s got that physicality about him but he is also very smooth and silky on the ball. He’s a special player.

However, it’s going to be hard for him to break into the starting eleven consistently. Reo Hatate and Arne Engels seem to have the starting roles tied down, leaving Bernardo and McCowan to come off the bench into Games.

Have quality, like Bernardo, on the bench, allows Brendan Rodgers to rotate the squad without any drop in quality.