Prestianni Opens Up About Difficult Benfica Start, Support from Di María and Otamendi

LISBON, Portugal – Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has revealed a challenging start to his career in Portugal, admitting he was once close to returning to Argentina before receiving crucial support from veteran teammates Ángel Di María and Nicolás Otamendi. The 20-year-old Argentine international spoke candidly about his struggles adapting to life at the Estádio da Luz and the pivotal role his experienced colleagues played in helping him overcome those difficulties.

Prestianni’s comments come amidst ongoing discussion surrounding an alleged incident involving Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during a recent Champions League match. Although the focus has been on accusations of racism, Prestianni’s story offers a glimpse into the personal challenges faced by young players navigating a new league and culture. He initially referenced the situation with Vinícius Júnior, but quickly turned to his own experiences at Benfica.

“It was too difficult,” Prestianni said, as reported by Portuguese outlet Record. “Being away… I wanted to go back to Argentina. After the first six months, I already wanted to leave. Fortunately, I had the holidays in between, but going back afterwards was very difficult. I didn’t talk to anyone so as not to show my family that I was struggling, because they suffer. But there was a time when I got hurt, and Ángel [Di María] saw me sad down there by the pool. He came to talk to me, and I was crying.”

Di María’s intervention proved to be a turning point for Prestianni. The experienced Argentine offered not only emotional support but also practical assistance, inviting the young winger to dinner with his family. “He helped me a lot,” Prestianni explained. “I told him I wanted to go back to Argentina, that I couldn’t take it anymore. He invited me to have dinner at his house with his family, with his wife… they helped me a lot. Both he and Ota [Otamendi] helped me immensely. I think it’s thanks to them that I’m still there and now I can be here with the national team.”

Otamendi, a seasoned defender and a key figure in both the Benfica dressing room and the Argentine national team, continues to provide guidance and mentorship to Prestianni. “He always accompanies me at Benfica, and I continue to learn from him,” Prestianni said. “I listen to his advice a lot, and that makes me sense more comfortable with the national team as well.”

Beyond the on-field support, Prestianni revealed a tendency to internalize his emotions and avoid sharing his feelings, even with close family and friends. “I don’t usually talk to anyone. Not with them [family], not with my girlfriend. I’m a person who doesn’t show anything, I don’t show anything at all. Not even when I’m happy. At most with my friends, but not much. If I’m happy or sad, I prefer to keep it to myself and vent alone. I think that’s just the way I am. It’s not for anything in particular, I’ve been like that since I was a kid and I continue to be.”

This introspective nature, while a personal characteristic, highlights the challenges young players face when adapting to a new environment and the importance of having a strong support system. Prestianni’s willingness to speak openly about his struggles offers a valuable insight into the human side of professional football.

The Benfica winger’s journey underscores the importance of mentorship within a team. Di María and Otamendi, both experienced international players, have clearly played a vital role in helping Prestianni settle into his new surroundings and reach his potential. Their support extends beyond tactical advice, encompassing emotional well-being and a sense of belonging.

Prestianni’s story also serves as a reminder of the pressures faced by young players transitioning to a new league. The cultural adjustments, language barriers, and the demands of professional football can take a toll, and the support of teammates and club staff is crucial in navigating these challenges.

Benfica will next face Estoril Praia in a Liga Portugal match on April 5th. Prestianni will likely feature in the squad, and will be looking to continue building on his positive momentum after overcoming his initial difficulties. The match is scheduled for 8:30 PM local time (1:30 PM EDT/5:30 PM GMT).

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