Benfica coach Jose Mourinho faces selection headaches as Leandro Barreiro and Aursnes are set to miss his side’s league trip to Casa Pia.
Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho addressed the media ahead of his side’s matchday 28 clash with Casa Pia AC.
The Portuguese tactician revealed that midfielder Leandro Barreiro returned from international duty nursing a physical issue, while Aursnes remains sidelined through injury.
Mourinho provided a detailed update on Barreiro’s fitness: “Of the players who returned from international duty, only Barreiro came back with a problem. I cannot guarantee he will feature on Monday. The reality is that Barreiro has not trained yet; we will assess him after Sunday’s session to determine whether he is fit to play or not,” he explained.
On the status of Aursnes, the manager was brief: “Aursnes is yet to recover.”
Looking ahead to the meeting with Casa Pia AC, Mourinho warned of the challenges posed by the hosts. “Casa Pia AC are very comfortable in their own ‘habitat’. Given their approach and their desperate need for points, we anticipate a stern test. They are a side happy to concede possession while remaining clinical enough to punish opponents on the break,” he noted.
Mourinho also reflected on his side’s unbeaten league run: “Our undefeated streak is a product of our pride and reflects the character of a group that respects the club’s history and understands the fans’ frustration following poor results. Even in adversity, we have fought for results, and occasionally a draw is the lesser of two evils,” he added.
“Naturally, I would prefer two defeats over eight draws. Sometimes, stalemates occur against the smaller sides. Our objective is always three points; a draw is never a positive result, even against rivals like FC Porto, Sporting, and Braga. Maintaining the streak isn’t the primary goal, but it highlights our quality, professionalism, and respect for Benfica,” he concluded.
