Florentino Luís says Burnley life “very challenging” but he’s thriving under pressure

Florentino Luís admits his introduction to English football has tested him in every way possible. The Portuguese midfielder, who arrived from Benfica in the final days of the summer transfer window, says the demands of the Premier League have been “very challenging” — but exactly what he wanted.

The 26-year-old has quickly become a key part of Bruno Lage’s side, showing composure on the ball and bite in midfield as Burnley continue to find their rhythm under new leadership. Having previously played in Portugal, France, and Spain, Florentino believes his path has perfectly prepared him for this moment.

Florentino described the daily work at Burnley as relentless but rewarding.

“Here, every day I’m pushed to the limit in every aspect. But that’s exactly what I like — constant improvement and the pleasure of living my dream,” he told Record.

His comments reflect a player embracing the intensity rather than shying away from it. The Premier League’s tempo, he says, is forcing him to evolve technically and mentally at the same time.

Adapting to Burnley’s pace wasn’t easy at first. The midfielder admits the opening weeks were demanding before he found his rhythm during the September international break.

“The first week was a shock, but the international break helped me gain rhythm. Now I feel more integrated in the squad and the pace of the league,” he explained.

Florentino believes the Premier League suits his style — a league where tactical balance and technical detail coexist. “Every team wants to play good football, stay compact, and attack with balance,” he added.

The former Benfica man praised head coach Bruno Lage for creating an environment that pushes yet protects him as he adjusts.

“The coach and players are very welcoming. They made me feel comfortable so I can give my best,” Florentino said.

That sense of unity, he believes, has been vital in helping him progress quickly and settle into Burnley’s collective identity.

According to GoalPoint, Florentino has already established himself as one of Burnley’s most effective defensive players, ranking high for tackles, interceptions, and blocked passes while maintaining an impressive 86% pass accuracy.

He also registered his first assist for the club earlier this month and believes there’s plenty more to come.
“Week after week, I want to keep improving,” he said.

His maturity shows — a player who’s not chasing headlines but focusing on growth and consistency.

Florentino says his previous experiences abroad helped him adapt to life in England both mentally and physically. After developing at Benfica and loan spells with Monaco and Getafe, he arrived in Lancashire ready to work.

“It was the right moment to leave Benfica, after many happy years there,” he explained. “When the right club appeared at the right time, I didn’t hesitate.”

He added that English football has changed significantly in recent years. “It’s become more tactical and more beautiful. Every team tries to play football the right way,” he said.

In our view, Florentino’s reflections embody exactly what Burnley fans want — humility, hunger, and discipline. His positioning and composure are already elevating the side’s structure in midfield. What stands out is his willingness to adapt, not complain, as he adjusts to England’s rhythm.

He’s not just surviving the Premier League’s pace; he’s starting to shape it to his game.

We think Florentino Luís is showing the right balance between patience and competitiveness. Burnley’s rebuild under Bruno Lage needs players who combine work ethic with technical quality, and Florentino ticks both boxes. He’s one of those signings who won’t grab headlines immediately but will prove invaluable over a full season.

Florentino is expected to keep his starting role as Burnley face Wolves this weekend. His growing chemistry with fellow midfielders could be central to Burnley’s hopes of climbing away from the bottom half before the winter break.

👉 Debate time: Is Florentino Luís the most underrated midfield signing of the Premier League season so far?