Chris Willock will reportedly continue training with the Benfica first-team but will feature in the Portugese second division with the B Team this season.

The former Arsenal winger left the club this summer and, to everyone’s surprise, rocked up in Portugal with league champions Benfica.

Benfica have a well-earned reputation for developing young players and then selling them on for high prices. It was thought that Willock would receive more first opportunities in Portugal and continue his development.

However, according to Portuguese newspaper Record, Willock will have to be patient as he’ll be playing for the Benfica B team next season. The 19-year-old will continue to train with the first-team but will be playing in the Portuguese second division.

While not the highest level, it will at least be giving him real experience against professional players instead of playing against U23 teams all the time.

Arsenal were unable to hold on to Willock due to a lack of first team opportunities. Despite featuring for the club during pre-season tours, there were one too many players ahead of him in the pecking order.

It may have been a blessing in disguise, as his departure gave more opportunities to the exciting Reiss Nelson and Chris Willock’s younger brother, Joe. Both impressed during pre-season.

Chris Willock was an unused player for Benfica during last weekend’s Emirates Cup.