**Explanation:**

The electrophilic aromatic substitution (EAS) is a reaction in which an electrophile replaces a hydrogen atom in an aromatic compound. It proceeds through several steps, including the formation of an intermediate.

The correct answer is **option B) complex**.

**Formation of the intermediate:**

1. The first step in EAS is the generation of the electrophile. This can be done by either an electrophilic reagent or by a reaction that generates an electrophile in situ.

2. The electrophile then reacts with the aromatic compound, forming a complex. This complex is an intermediate in the reaction.

**The role of the intermediate:**

The intermediate plays a crucial role in the EAS reaction. It serves as a bridge between the electrophile and the aromatic compound, allowing for the transfer of the electrophile to the aromatic ring.

The complex is often formed through a combination of resonance and charge transfer interactions. The electrophile interacts with the π-electrons of the aromatic ring, leading to the formation of a new bond.

**Stability of the intermediate:**

The stability of the intermediate is an important factor in determining the reactivity of the electrophile and the rate of the reaction. A more stable intermediate will lead to a faster reaction.

In the case of EAS, the stability of the intermediate is influenced by factors such as the nature of the electrophile and the substituents on the aromatic ring. These factors can affect the charge distribution and resonance interactions within the intermediate.

**Other options:**

- a) Phenyl cation: The formation of a phenyl cation is unlikely in EAS reactions. A positive charge on the aromatic ring would disrupt the aromaticity and destabilize the intermediate.

- c) Benzene anion: The formation of a benzene anion is also unlikely in EAS reactions. A negative charge on the aromatic ring would destabilize the intermediate.

- d) Benzyne: Benzyne is a highly reactive intermediate that can be formed under certain conditions. However, it is not a common intermediate in EAS reactions.

In conclusion, the correct answer is option B) complex, as it represents the intermediate formed during the electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction.