Mourinho reshuffles Benfica squad ahead of crucial clash with Famalicão. José Mourinho is preparing significant changes to Benfica's lineup for the away game against Famalicão. The decision is linked to the battle for second place in the Portugal Betclic League. Key players are returning to the starting eleven.
José Mourinho, ahead of Benfica’s away match against Famalicão, has decided on large-scale changes to the starting lineup. The fixture is crucial for determining the second place in the Portugal Betclic League, where the rivalry with Sporting remains intense. According to RUSSPAIN, the coach does not plan to rest key players and is bringing back into the starting eleven those who missed the previous game.
Specifically, Prestianni and Schjelderup, who did not start against Moreirense, are set to replace Lukebakio and Rafa. This move will refresh the flanks and strengthen both the attacking and defensive potential of the team. Mourinho noted that he relies on their versatility and ability to influence the course of the match.
Changes will also affect the right side of defense: Dedic may take Alexander Bah’s place, in line with the coach's rotation policy for this position. Similar adjustments have already delivered results in previous rounds, when Benfica managed to keep the squad fresh and control the pace of the game.
In the race for top positions in the league, coaches of leading clubs are increasingly resorting to unexpected personnel decisions. Similar reshuffles have recently been discussed at other teams as well, such as Girona and Mallorca, who refreshed their starting lineups in a decisive relegation battle — you can read more about this in the report on lineup changes in LaLiga.
The match in Vila Nova de Famalicão promises to be one of the key encounters for Benfica this season. The outcome will depend on Mourinho’s chosen tactics and the freshness of the players, as the club seeks to maintain its advantage in the race for second place and withstand pressure from Sporting.
