João Tomás backs one of Benfica's main men: it was just one game | OneFootball

João Tomás, former Benfica forward, believes that Marco Silva’s work cannot be judged solely on this season’s “false start” , against St. Gallen, and played down the criticism aimed at the Benfica coach, after the 2-1 defeat in Switzerland.

“Marco (Silva) comes from the English League; it is an extremely valuable experience in a highly competitive environment. He is coming to the Portuguese League and, naturally, we cannot judge his work on one game or two or three preseason matches,” he said on the sidelines of Liga Portugal Legends, in which he represents the Eagles.

Despite this stance, the striker, who also played for clubs such as Académica, Vitória de Guimarães, Braga, Rio Ave and Betis, believes that a victory next Thursday is “very important” so that the team can establish itself.

Looking at the squad, with the loss of Nicolás Otamendi and António Silva, João Tomás argued that “adjustments” are needed, with the “obligation to find another centre-back.” “We will have to understand the role Tomás Araújo will take on this season, what Lenglet’s position will be, and also Pavlidis and Rafa. We will see how they take on the responsibility of having more time within Benfica’s setup”, said the former Portugal international.

Despite the setback in Switzerland, Benfica still have the tie open and are now obliged to beat St. Gallen at the Estádio da Luz to secure their place in the Europa League. The second leg is scheduled for next Thursday, 30 July, with kick-off set for 20:00. The match will be broadcast on SIC, BTV and on the “LiveMode” YouTube channel.

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