Malaga midfielder Eliseu has admitted he was disappointed by Coach Manuel Pellegrini's decision not to let him join Benfica.
The 29-year-old has been an integral part of Los Boquerones' team this season, but has conceded that he was frustrated with not being allowed to join the Portuguese club over the summer.
“Was I disappointed? Yes I was,” he told A Bola. “If the Coach had given his consent I would have departed to Benfica. I confess that I like the idea of being a Benfica player. A lot of players around the world would be happy to join a club like that.
“I hope I can go, but I am also aware that Malaga will have the last word. Benfica did everything they could to sign me and I am very grateful for their interest. It was a shame I couldn't go.
“Opportunities like that happen once in a lifetime, but now I have to concentrate on Malaga and help the team.
“I just want to do everything I can to keep playing at the same level, and then hopefully Benfica will be interested in me again.”
He also commented on his current club's impressive start to the season, that has seen them sit in third place in La Liga, as well as go unbeaten in the Champions League.
“Luckily the season has gone well,” he said. “The team are doing well in the League and in Europe. I'm happy with my performance.
“Pellegrini talks with me a lot and helps me maximise my game.”
