M. Araújo thrilled by Benfica player's World Cup call-up: It was pure joy | OneFootball

Tomás Araújo’s call-up for the World Cup sparked a real celebratory atmosphere in Famalicão, with the Benfica defender’s family experiencing moments of great emotion when Roberto Martínez revealed the squad list. Manuel Araújo, the player’s father, shared how he experienced the decisive moment away from the television, but completely tuned in to the announcement.

"The moment I heard his name, it was a real explosion of joy! It was one of his biggest goals, after so many years," he said, still visibly moved by his son’s achievement, in an exclusive interview with Record newspaper.

The joy spread to the whole family, who were gathered at home following the announcement, with friends and neighbours joining in the celebration. His mother, Idalina, described the atmosphere when the centre-back’s name was announced. "When his name came up, it was madness, an explosion of emotions among us and the friends who were here", she said.

Now, with his place at the World Cup secured, the family are already starting to dream of following the player in this new stage of his career. "I would really like to go to the United States to watch a match", his mother confessed, proud to see her son fulfil his dream of representing Portugal on the biggest stage in world football.

This season, playing for Benfica, Tomás Araújo — valued at €28 million — has made 39 official appearances: 23 in the Liga Portugal Betclic, nine in the Champions League, four in the Portuguese Cup, two in the League Cup and one in the Liga Portugal Meu Super. In the 2,795 minutes he spent on the pitch, the defender recorded one goal and two assists.

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