Rui Costa returns to Benfica from Milan

LISBON, May 25: Portuguese playmaker Rui Costa will return to Benfica after rescinding his contract with AC Milan, an official at the Portuguese club said today.

Details of the deal were not revealed. Local media reported the player, who left Portugal in 1994 to join Fiorentina, has signed for one year with the option of a further 12 months.

The 34-year-old, who retired from international football after Euro 2004, joined AC Milan in 2001 from Fiorentina.

''I feel happy with the possibility of returning, am ambition I have had for 12 years,'' said Rui Costa, who started his career with Benfica as a nine-year-old, upon arrival at Lisbon airport on Tuesday.

REUTERS