Pote ruled out for Benfica v Sporting clash | OneFootball

All indications are that Pote will be in the starting lineup for Benfica vs. Sporting. Having recovered from injury, the 'number 8' is preparing to return to Rui Borges' starting eleven for the Lions, with both the player and the coaching staff sharing the same expectations.

However, it's not all smooth sailing. According to the newspaper Record, the Portuguese international is expected to be limited to 60 minutes of play in the derby. Although he has been cleared by the Performance Unit, the Sporting staff do not intend to take any risks and will not allow him to play the full 90 minutes.

Pedro Gonçalves was once again an option for Rui Borges against Estrela da Amadora, after having been sidelined and recovering from a microtear in his right thigh, which he suffered in the match against Santa Clara. In the last game, the player was restricted to a maximum of 45 minutes on the field to avoid any aggravation of his physical condition, with the Sporting coach respecting these 'orders'. Pote played half an hour, plus stoppage time.

It is worth noting that, for the 'number 8' to return to the Lions' starting eleven, someone will have to make way. Rui Borges' choice is not yet known, but it will come down to Geovany Quenda or Geny Catamo—who ended up playing together while Pote was absent.

This season, wearing Sporting's shirt, Pedro Gonçalves—valued at 30 million euros—has already played 18 matches: 12 in Liga Portugal, four in the Champions League, one in the Portuguese Cup, and one in the Super Cup. During the 1,424 minutes he has played, the Lions' 'number 8' has already scored nine goals and provided six assists.

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