Pote at Sporting-Benfica in his worst ever form? What the numbers say | OneFootball

Now in his sixth season at Sporting, Pedro Gonçalves has shown greater inconsistency over the last two campaigns, largely due to fitness issues and muscle injuries. Even so, despite criticism from some supporters, the 'number 8' continues to enjoy Rui Borges' full confidence.

"For me, he is doing well, he played a good game. The team even dropped off a little after he went off. He is looking for his best form, but he played a good game and has made a good contribution to the team. And his numbers speak for themselves and show the importance he has to the team," the coach said after the match against Arsenal in London.

Looking at the numbers, it is clear that, despite some fluctuations, his attacking output remains high. In 2025/26, he is averaging 0.45 expected goals per 90 minutes, above the previous two seasons at Sporting (0.41 in 2024/25 and 0.38 in 2023/24). He also continues to post high shooting numbers (3.79 per game), as well as shots on target (1.75), both higher than in previous seasons.

Pote's passing accuracy remains steady (80.3%), although he has recorded a drop in expected assists (0.26, compared to 0.38 and 0.42 in the previous seasons). Even so, he creates 2.62 chances per game - more than in 2023/24, but below his 2024/25 peak. Also noteworthy is the clear improvement in his dribbling efficiency, which has risen to 46.7%.

Defensively, the numbers are less encouraging. Although he has improved slightly in duels won (43.9% compared to 35% last season), he is posting fewer defensive actions per game (1.40), down from 1.95 and 2.12 in the previous two seasons. His presence in the opposition box has also declined, with 5.13 touches per game, slightly below recent figures.

Even so, the overall numbers continue to highlight Pote's importance at Sporting. In 2025/26, he has 15 goals and seven assists in 33 matches. In the previous season, which was marked by injuries (he missed 40 matches and spent 180 days sidelined), he finished with six goals and six assists in 20 games. In 2023/24, he produced the best season of his career, with 18 goals and 16 assists in 49 matches, for a total of 34 direct goal contributions.

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