Enzo in Mourinho's plans, but out of position at Benfica | OneFootball

Benfica are preparing to host Nacional with some limitations in defence, forcing José Mourinho to carefully manage the available options. The coach has only two natural centre-backs (Nicolás Otamendi and António Silva) among the players who have been used most regularly. Given this scenario, the coaching staff are looking for internal alternatives that can respond to any needs that may arise during the match.

Enzo Barrenechea has emerged as the third option for the heart of the defence. The Argentine midfielder is on standby and could be called upon to play as a centre-back if any unexpected issue arises. Although it is not his natural position, the player has already been tested in the role and showed an ability to adapt to its demands.

That adaptation happened recently, in the home match against V. Guimarães, when he partnered Tomás Araújo. His use there was prompted by Otamendi’s physical limitations and it ended up receiving a positive assessment. Both the coaching staff and his teammate in defence praised the performance, even though it was the player’s debut in that position in official matches.

Barrenechea feels more comfortable as a defensive midfielder, the role in which he built most of his career. Even so, the footballer has shown himself willing to meet the coach’s needs. Tactical flexibility is proving to be an asset at a time when Mourinho is facing several constraints in the back line.

. Joshua Wynder is still recovering from injury and Gonçalo Oliveira has been used mainly in the B team. This combination of factors leaves Benfica with very little margin for error and increases the importance of improvised solutions for the upcoming challenge against Nacional.

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