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Gustavo Varela debuted for Monza with two goals in the opening round of the Coppa Italia against Serie B side Avellino, according to reports from A Bola. The former Benfica forward, who transferred to the Italian club on July 27, scored in the 22nd and 45th minutes to help secure a 3-0 victory.
Gustavo Varela’s Impact in Monza Debut
Playing in his first competitive fixture in Italy, Varela scored first with his left foot and then with his right, according to A Bola. Omari Forson sealed the 3-0 win for Monza, who recently earned promotion to Serie A. Glorioso1904 reported that Benfica sold the 21-year-old forward, retaining a 20% future sale clause and a buyback option. Monza signed Varela to a contract running through June 2030, following an operational pattern that also saw them bring in Ricardo Mangas from Sporting, as noted by Glorioso1904. Varela spent the previous season on loan at Gil Vicente, where A Bola and Glorioso1904 note he played before making his permanent move to Italian football. Next up for Varela and Monza is a Serie A fixture against league champions Inter Milan on August 22, according to A Bola.
Coppa Italia Results for Ex-Portuguese League Players
Other former Liga Portugal players featured prominently in the Coppa Italia opening round. Cagliari defeated Catania 2-0 with a brace from Simone Lontani, while former FC Porto defender Zé Pedro played the full 90 minutes at right-back, according to A Bola. Meanwhile, Fiorentina recorded a 4-1 win over Benevento. Former FC Porto player João Mário started at right-back for Fiorentina and provided an assist for Moise Kean in the 35th minute, as reported by A Bola. Cher Ndour, formerly of Benfica and SC Braga, also scored for Fiorentina in the 50th minute, alongside goals from Gudmundsson and Luca Ranieiri, while Lamesta scored for Benevento.
Did you know? Gustavo Varela made his senior team debut for Benfica on May 17, 2024, coming on as a 75th-minute substitute against Rio Ave, according to Glorioso1904.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Monza pay for Gustavo Varela?
According to Glorioso1904, the precise transfer fee was not officially disclosed by the parties, though reports indicated potential performance-related bonuses.
When does Monza play Inter Milan in Serie A?
According to A Bola, Monza faces Inter Milan on August 22.
Which Portuguese clubs previously held or loaned Gustavo Varela?
Varela was formed at Benfica, spent last season on loan at Gil Vicente, and was sold to Monza on July 27, according to A Bola and Glorioso1904.