Aimar backs Benfica signing, praises Rui Costa: he has an eye | OneFootball

Pablo Aimar, former Benfica player and current assistant to Lionel Scaloni with the Argentina national team, had glowing praise for Claudio Echeverri, the Eagles’ new signing, and also highlighted Rui Costa’s ability to spot talent in number 10s. The former midfielder was invited by BTV, together with Javier Saviola, to analyse his compatriot, who recently arrived at Benfica.

“I’m very happy when Argentine players go to Benfica, because they’re going to live in a beautiful city and play for a spectacular club, where they can grow and, over the years, boys have become what they promised to be: great players,” Aimar began.

The former Benfica number 10 also said he was pleased with Gianluca Prestianni’s development before speaking directly about Echeverri. “Prestianni is playing at a very high level! He is developing and establishing himself at the club; let’s hope Claudio lives up to all the talent and potential he has. They were in the same age group, the two best players of Argentina’s 2006 generation,” he noted.

Aimar then also made sure to point out Rui Costa’s role in signing the young Argentine. “Claudio is a number 10, and Rui Costa knows how to recognise number 10s well. He likes to take charge of the game, he likes to take penalties and free-kicks, he likes being given responsibility. Benfica chose the right player,” he concluded.

Aimar also revealed that he coached Echeverri in Argentina’s youth teams and recalled a piece of advice he received from Jorge Jesus: “Great players are not anxious.” The former midfielder believes the young Argentine will have the ideal environment at Benfica to continue developing.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.