Mourinho without Otamendi and Barrenechea for Benfica’s Arouca trip | OneFootball

José Mourinho will be without Nicolás Otamendi and Enzo Barrenechea for Benfica’s visit to Arouca in the 26th round of the Liga Portugal Betclic, forcing a rethink.

Record reports that Mourinho is set to make five changes across the side, with Alexander Bah expected to return at right back. The defence will again pair António Silva with Tomás Araújo after captain Otamendi was ruled out, and in midfield Leandro Barreiro is due to start alongside Richard Ríos, with Barrenechea also unavailable.

Further forward, Sudakov, who did not feature in the Clássico that finished 2-2, is in line to start, as is Lukebakio after his second‑half outing against Porto. That could leave Rafa and Prestianni among the substitutes.

Fredrik Aursnes and Bruma are confirmed absences with muscular injuries. Aursnes’ return is expected only in April, which could put him in contention for the derby with Sporting on matchday 30.

Benfica face Arouca on Saturday 14 March at 20:30, with the match staged at the home of Vasco Seabra’s side.

Source: Glorioso 1904