Murad Khan Signs with European Giants Benfica in Landmark Move for Pakistani Volleyball

In a landmark move for South Asian volleyball, Murad Khan joins Benfica, becoming the latest Pakistani athlete to break into Europe’s elite volleyball scene. The 25-year-old opposite hitter brings explosive power, international pedigree, and high-level experience to the Lisbon-based club, which aims to build on an already dazzling 2024/25 campaign.

Benfica’s New Signing: A Game-Changer

Sport Lisboa e Benfica, one of Europe’s most successful volleyball clubs, has added Murad Khan to its roster as it gears up for the upcoming season. The move signifies a strategic step by Benfica to bolster its attack and maintain dominance in both domestic competitions and continental tournaments.

In the 2024/25 season, Benfica claimed multiple titles in Portugal and made an impressive run in the CEV Champions League, making the club an increasingly attractive destination for top-tier international talent. With this latest signing, the team is investing further in offensive depth.

Murad Khan: The Journey to Europe

Standing tall at 205 cm (6 ft 9 in) with a spike reach of 362 cm, Murad Khan has become one of Asia’s most consistent and feared opposite hitters. His journey has taken him across several competitive leagues:

• 2024: Played with Beijing BAIC Motor in China’s Super League

• 2023: Represented Incheon Korean Air Jumbos in South Korea

• 2022: Competed for Neftochimik Burgas in Bulgaria

• 2021–2023: Began European career with Spartak Subotica in Serbia

This diverse experience across Asia and Europe has molded him into a tactically sound and physically dominant player. His powerful spikes, consistent blocks, and match temperament have earned him accolades in each league he’s played.

Now, as Murad Khan joins Benfica, his presence adds depth and dynamism to an already star-studded squad.

Why Benfica Signed Murad Khan

Benfica’s decision to sign Murad Khan is more than just a tactical upgrade. It reflects the club’s ambition to remain competitive across all fronts  especially in the Champions League, where depth in attack is crucial.

Murad’s versatility across leagues, ability to adapt quickly, and his aggression at the net make him a valuable addition. Benfica’s coaching staff reportedly sees him as a “match-winner,” particularly in high-pressure games.

His height and athleticism will also be a defensive asset, particularly against Europe’s top hitters. With aging attackers and a congested fixture list, having a powerful opposite hitter like Murad could be the key to Benfica sustaining its success.

A Historic Moment for Pakistani Volleyball

For Pakistani volleyball, Murad’s transfer marks a historic achievement. Very few Pakistani players have broken into top-tier European clubs, and even fewer have secured contracts with institutions as renowned as Benfica.

Murad Khan is not only representing his nation at the highest level but also inspiring a new generation of South Asian athletes to pursue professional careers abroad. His success underscores the potential of Pakistani athletes when given global exposure.

In recent years, Pakistan has produced several talented volleyball players, but limited infrastructure and visibility have held many back Murad’s rise is a testament to perseverance, talent, and the growing global recognition of South Asian sports talent.

Volleyball in Pakistan: A Growing Sport

Volleyball is gaining popularity in Pakistan, particularly among youth in cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar. The Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) has been actively promoting the sport through domestic leagues, international tours, and player development programs.

Murad’s signing is likely to give volleyball an even greater push in the country. It could lead to more scouting, better training facilities, and wider media attention — all of which are crucial for building a long-term talent pipeline.

Quotes from the Volleyball Community

While Benfica has yet to officially unveil Murad Khan with a press conference, sources close to the player and club management have expressed enthusiasm:

“Murad is a world-class hitter with the hunger to perform on the big stage. Benfica will benefit massively from his signing,” said a European scout.

“He’s blazing a trail for all of us. Murad’s success gives us hope,” said a young volleyball player from Pakistan’s National Training Camp.

What’s Next for Murad Khan

Murad is expected to arrive in Lisbon by mid-August and begin pre-season training with Benfica ahead of the Super Cup. He’s also likely to be part of the club’s Champions League squad, with group stage matches kicking off in October 2025.

If he adapts quickly to the team’s system, Murad could become a regular starter and one of the faces of Benfica volleyball for the next few seasons.

His goal? Win trophies, raise Pakistan’s flag in Europe, and inspire the next generation.