Bruno Lage explains Tomás Araújo’s exit in Benfica v Santa Clara: it was… | OneFootball

Bruno Lage was questioned about the use of Tomás Araújo as a right-back in the Benfica - Santa Clara match. After the game, the Eagles' coach didn't want to reveal his hand on the subject, but he did explain that the halftime substitution (Prestianni came on) was intended to increase the between-the-lines play.

"It was a choice for this game [Tomás Araújo starting]. The next game will dictate another strategy and another choice. This was the initial strategy. These were the players who gave assurances during the week in training. Then it was a tactical change to put another player between the lines, Prestianni," began Bruno Lage, who had previously defended Otamendi.

"The responsibilities for this draw are all mine. We have to recover and have a game already on Tuesday to win. I make a strong appeal to our fans. Keep supporting. Thank you to our fans for today's support, be here on Tuesday as we need to win a good Champions and we need them," concluded Bruno Lage.

This season, wearing the Benfica shirt, Tomás Araújo - currently valued at 32 million euros - has played four matches, all in the Liga Portugal Betclic. In the 225 minutes he played, the center/right-back, who has a contract with the Club da Luz until June 2029, has been performing well.

Benfica will be back on the field next Tuesday, September 16, at 8:15 p.m., at the Estádio da Luz, against Qarabag. The game is part of the first round of the regular phase of the Champions League. In the Liga Portugal Betclic, the reds will travel to the AFS stronghold in the sixth round (Saturday, September 20, 6:00 p.m.).

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