Tomás Araújo has reasons to smile ahead of Moreirense v Benfica | OneFootball

Tomás Araújo is expected to retain his starting spot against Moreirense. According to the information gathered, the number 44 once again earns José Mourinho’s trust for this afternoon’s match, December 14, in Moreira de Cónegos. However, even though the defender has his place secured, the Special One is likely to make some changes to the Benfica lineup.

According to the newspaper Record, in this Sunday’s edition, the Portuguese international is ahead of António Silva in the options to partner with Nicolás Otamendi, just as happened in the European victory over Napoli (2-0). The same source reveals that the only change will be the return of Vangelis Pavlidis to Benfica’s starting eleven.

On the other hand, the sports daily reports that José Neto and Tiago Freitas will not be in the Eagles’ starting lineup, after making their respective debuts for the main squad last Wednesday, December 10. However, José Mourinho, in his pre-match interview with BTV, suggested that the two youngsters might get some minutes during the match.

"One thing I think, and obviously, internally I say and repeat — maybe this is the first time I’m saying it to you — is that there are so, so, so many quality youngsters here that I could debut one or two every weekend", said the Special One about using homegrown talent.

Tomás Araújo — currently valued at 32 million euros — has been a constant presence in Mourinho’s selections. This season, the center-back has already played a total of 18 official matches, between domestic competitions and the Champions League. In the 997 minutes he’s been on the pitch, he has scored one goal (against Vitória de Guimarães).

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