Sporting signing below par lately, but Rui Borges won't give up | OneFootball

Rodrigo Zalazar got off to a flying start to the season against Estrela da Amadora, recording a goal and an assist in the match. However, the Uruguayan midfielder saw his performances dip in the following games - becoming the target of criticism - , but coach Rui Borges believes this drop is part of the growing pains of the Lions' collective.

TheSporting manager believes that the most important thing at this stage is to consolidate processes and fine-tune the dynamics in the starting team. The qualities of the number 17 shirt are undisputed by the coaching staff, not least because he was one of the main driving forces behind his signing from Braga during this transfer window.

From a tactical standpoint, the creative Uruguayan initially settled into the number 10 role, but has frequently drifted out to the left wing. These inward movements link up with the dynamics of Flávio Gonçalves, Maxi Araújo and Issa Doumbia, while combinations with striker Luis Suárez in attack are also being refined.

The weight of the €30 million transfer, the most expensive in the club’s history, created high expectations in the stands. The player scored 23 goals in 48 games in Minho, so it is only natural that fans show less tolerance when faced with a less inspired performance on the pitch.

Rodrigo Zalazar has adapted perfectly to the green-and-white dressing room, finding constant support in compatriot Maxi Araújo during this period. .

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