Aursnes sidelined for Benfica, Barrenechea expected to start at Santa Clara | OneFootball

Fredrik Aursnes’ injury has forced José Mourinho to alter Benfica’s XI for Friday’s trip to the Azores.

According to Glorioso 1904, Enzo Barrenechea is expected to replace him against Santa Clara, breaking up the promising Leandro Barreiro and Aursnes partnership.

Before his right shoulder injury, Barrenechea was a regular starter. He began the 4-0 win over Estrela da Amadora but went off at half-time, did not feature in the 0-0 at Tondela, then played the final eight minutes of the 4-2 victory over Real Madrid and came on in the 88th minute against Alverca, a 2-0 win.

His shoulder subluxation is being managed cautiously with conservative treatment. In agreement with Benfica’s medical staff, he has avoided surgery and his status is reviewed regularly.

The Argentine joined on loan from Aston Villa for €3m, with a €12m option dependent on targets he is close to meeting. Valued at €15m, he has made 33 appearances this season, 17 in the league and 12 in the Champions League, plus two in the Portuguese Cup, one in the League Cup and one in the Super Cup, totalling 2,450 minutes, with one goal and one assist.

Source: Glorioso 1904