However, there is some uncertainty about whether Benfica will activate a buy option in the loan deal to secure Fernandez permanently.
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Asked about Fernandez, who has only started thrice since January, Schmidt told reporters: "The situation is clear, he is on loan and we have the option of keeping him at Benfica, but everything is open.
We have the option to keep him, let's see what's best for him and also for us.
Now we are focused on finishing the season, only then we will decide."