AIK are pulling off a surprise return for defender Filip Benkovic. The Croatian, who left the club last winter to join Chinese side Shenzhen Peng City Football Club, is set to return on loan for the rest of the season.
What happened with Benkovic?
Filip Benkovic left AIK in the winter and signed for the Chinese club Shenzhen Peng City Football Club. There he managed two goals in nine appearances before the season stalled. Reports now claim AIK have negotiated his return, according to Expressen. Benkovic will undergo a medical tomorrow to complete the move.
Why it matters for AIK
Benkovic brings prior AIK experience and previously notched two goals and two assists in 35 appearances during his last spell at the club. His return gives AIK another defensive option mid-season as they sit fourth in Allsvenskan with four points. The side recently bolstered the squad further with Belgian defender Hervé Matthys, who signed until 2028.
AIK’s next fixture is away to Djurgårdens IF on 16 August 2026. Currently, AIK have four points, four goals scored and three conceded, with a plus-one goal difference. They sit three points behind league leaders IF Elfsborg and have struggled to start the season with just one win and one draw from two games.
What comes next?
Benkovic is expected to be available this weekend if the medical clears him. His experience and past performances in AIK’s shirt make him a valuable addition ahead of the upcoming matches. Meanwhile, AIK continue to build the squad in pursuit of a top finish in Allsvenskan.
