Footballer returns to Benfica under fire, leaving Mourinho on edge | OneFootball

José Mourinho does not hide his concern about the current situation of Franjo Ivanovic. The Benfica footballer has returned to Seixal, however, he was recently confronted by criticism he received in Croatia due to his disappointing performances for the national team during this international break.

The number 9 of Clube da Luz started the match yesterday, November 17, against Montenegro, in what was Croatia’s last qualifying match, as they had already secured a spot in the World Cup. Ivanovic was on the field for only 55 minutes but was unable to contribute to the team, which led to several criticisms.

Although he did not play in his usual position, the Croatian international tried several times to appear in the center of the attack, going against instructions to play on the right wing, as if he were a winger. Even while playing in that area of the pitch, fans on social media did not hold back their criticism of the Benfica forward.

"If anyone wonders why Mourinho doesn’t give Ivanovic minutes, just watch the first half of this game", reads one of the posts targeting the player, who is reportedly unhappy at Benfica. "No wonder he doesn’t play at Benfica", was another comment made by a Croatian fan.

Franjo Ivanovic - valued at 20 million euros - has only played 2 minutes in the last three matches for the Eagles. This season, wearing Benfica’s Sacred Mantle, the Croatian international has played in 19 official matches, both in domestic and European competitions. In the 865 minutes he spent on the pitch, the forward scored five goals.

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