Newcastle United finally ended their centre-back search this summer by signing Malick Thiaw from AC Milan.
It has proven to be an inspired decision, with Malick Thiaw playing incredibly well since his arrival at St James’ Park.
Newcastle United bought Thiaw for £34million, and it is already a case of money well spent. The German defender has formed a brilliant partnership with Sven Botman, and is currently keeping Fabian Schar out of the starting XI.
That speaks volumes about how well the 24-year-old is playing, but there will now be pressure on him to maintain this level of performance against Benfica on Tuesday night.
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Former target Antonio Silva set to play against Newcastle United
Newcastle United face Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday, with Jose Mourinho bringing his side to St James’ Park.
His squad will include a familiar face for Newcastle United scouts, with Antonio Silva set to start at centre-back.
Antonio Silva has been on Newcastle’s radar in recent years, as they scoured Europe for a player who could arrive as Schar’s long-term successor.
The Portuguese defender would have been more than up to the task, blending supreme power with composure and calmness.
Malick Thiaw possesses similar qualities, and he will be eager to ensure they are on display against Benfica. He will be keen to prove without a doubt that Newcastle United made the right decision in signing him ahead of someone like Silva.
For 21-year-old ‘superstar’ Antonio Silva, it is a chance to show Newcastle United what they missed out on. However, Toon officials will not care as long as Thiaw continues performing at this level.
Newcastle United set to face another familiar face in the Champions League
Silva will likely be joined in the Benfica defence by Nicolas Otamendi.
He has played at St James’ Park before, having spent five years at Manchester City.
The 37-year-old won two Premier League titles during his time in English football, as well as one FA Cup and four League Cups.
During his Manchester City career, Otamendi played against Newcastle United five times. He won all five of those games, conceding just two goals.
The Argentinian powerhouse will be eager to extend that record, as Benfica attempt to pick up their first Champions League points of the season.
Newcastle United have three on the board, having beaten Union Saint-Gilloise 4-0 in their previous European fixture.
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