Benfica player on Franjo Ivanovic's situation: I’ve been in his shoes | OneFootball

Franjo Ivanovic is not experiencing the best moment at Benfica, after being substituted at halftime in the match against Atlético CP. Vangelis Pavlidis recently commented on the situation of his attacking colleague at the Clube da Luz, and explained that he has gone through a similar process.

It should be remembered that Franjo Ivanovic was signed in the summer market for more than 20 million euros, but he still hasn't secured a starting position in Benfica's attack. The player was included in the starting 11 by José Mourinho in the last match against Atlético, but ended up being substituted at halftime by the Portuguese coach.

"I have been in his position. Things will get better in the second half of the season. It takes personality to play at Benfica. Sometimes, the new environment, the new coach... it takes time," explained Vangelis Pavlidis about the moment Franjo Ivanovic is going through.

What is certain is that Ivanovic has been called up again and will be an option in the Ajax - Benfica match. José Mourinho also commented on the topic in his press conference: "When they keep hammering on the same thing, I don't like it, but I understand. When they lie, it deeply bothers me."

"If there is a player who works hard and gives everything in training or in games, and the substitution had nothing to do with attitude, it is Ivanovic. He is an extraordinary guy who works so hard. Things are not going well for him, but he is untouchable from a professional standpoint. When things are made up about players who are dear to me, it hurts," said the Benfica coach afterwards.

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