Pedro Sousa pokes fun at Benfica starter: Rabiot and Modric won't sleep | OneFootball

Fredrik Aursnes’ return to action, against Moreirense, has created a new dilemma for Marco Silva. During the Norwegian international’s absence, Leandro Barreiro seized the opportunity and performed at a high level, now putting the makeup of Benfica’s midfield up for debate.

For Vítor Pinto, the Luxembourg international’s performances cannot be ignored. The commentator argues that Barreiro has been unfairly undervalued and deserves to continue playing an important role at Benfica: “I will not accept any attempt to downplay the importance Leandro Barreiro has had at Benfica. He really is the ugly duckling, the one who is always undervalued,” he said, before highlighting Aursnes’ qualities and raising a question about a possible partnership with João Palhinha.

“Aursnes’ great quality and class will always, through his intelligence, allow him to have a place at Benfica. I’m very curious to see how Palhinha and Aursnes will work together. Because Barreiro’s range, intelligence and speed are not easy to balance,” he explained.

Pedro Sousa, however, sees it differently. Although he also acknowledges Barreiro’s good form, the journalist believes Aursnes will regain his starting place as soon as he is physically fit: “Obviously, Aursnes under normal conditions is better. He is the captain of Sport Lisboa e Benfica. Therefore, when the serious matches come around, Aursnes will obviously play,” he argued.

Rabiot and Modric can’t even sleep if Leandro Barreiro plays.”

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