José Mourinho weighs Tomás Araújo role before Benfica v Real Madrid | OneFootball

José Mourinho is finalising Benfica’s plan for Real Madrid with a late call to make on Tomás Araújo. The defender is available after a scare in the Azores and is expected to be involved on Tuesday, 17 February.

O Jogo reports that Araújo has recovered and should keep his place, though his role remains undecided. He could partner Nicolás Otamendi in central defence or continue at right-back, as he did against Santa Clara.

Mourinho is likely to confirm the decision closer to kick-off to limit leaks. Concerns over Amar Dedic’s condition could see Araújo used on the right, with António Silva lining up alongside the captain.

There is also a strong possibility that Dedic features, despite recent absences, having been managed to be ready for more demanding fixtures such as Real Madrid.

This season Araújo, valued at 28 million euros, has played 30 competitive matches for Benfica, including 16 in Liga Portugal Betclic, seven in the Champions League, four in the Taça de Portugal, two in the Taça da Liga and one in the Liga Portugal Meu Super. Across 2,043 minutes he has one goal and one assist.

Source: Glorioso 1904