Why Vojvoda chose to take off Miguelito against Bragantino | OneFootball

Back at Santos after a loan period at América-MG last season, midfielder Miguelito was among the starters for the first time this season, in the goalless draw against Red Bull Bragantino. However, coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda chose to substitute him and explained the decision in the post-match press conference.

At 15 minutes into the second half of Sunday's match, Miguelito left the field to make way for Rollheiser. The substitution, however, was not well received by Santos fans, who booed Vojvoda as the Bolivian midfielder left. The player is highly requested by Santos fans to receive more playing time.

“Well, I wanted to keep Lautaro because he is a forward and I wanted to maintain the team offensively. I considered bringing Rollheiser in for Miguelito due to their similar characteristics. It was a moment to attack in spaces, so I placed Rollheiser in the middle, in place of Miguel. Shortly after, Matheus Xavier came in on the left side, to also provide speed in that area,” said Vojvoda.

Praised by Vojvoda

Last season, Miguelito had impressive numbers playing in Serie B. For América-MG, he played 25 times, scored seven goals, and contributed five assists. At the beginning of this year, he rejoined Santos along with the rest of the squad and was praised by the Peixe coach.

“Miguelito is doing very well. He is a player who showed up on the first day like everyone else, but I didn't know him like the rest of the squad. He started getting minutes in the game and showed commitment at all times. That's what we need from all players, especially those from the youth academy. I think he had a good first half and was doing well when he left, but we have similar characteristics in the squad with him and Rollheiser,” commented the coach.

Santos in the Paulista

With the latest result, Santos reached six points but remains outside the qualifying zone for the quarter-finals of the State Championship, in ninth position. The top eight advance to the second phase of the State Championship. The bottom two are relegated.

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