Lisbon, Portugal — A quarter-century has passed since José Mourinho last walked the touchline at Benfica, a brief but impactful stint that served as a prologue to one of football`s most illustrious managerial careers. Now, the “Special One” is back. With the weight of expectation and the ghosts of past glory, Mourinho has unveiled his first starting eleven as he recommences his journey with the Eagles, facing AVS in a crucial Primeira Liga fixture.
This isn`t merely a return; it`s a narrative turning point. Mourinho, whose tactical prowess and magnetic personality have shaped modern football, arrives at a club seeking immediate redemption. Benfica`s recent 2-3 home defeat to Qarabag under former coach Bruno Lage has created an atmosphere ripe for change, and who better to orchestrate it than the man who thrives on pressure?
A Calculated First Move: The Lineup Revealed
True to his pragmatic nature, Mourinho`s initial team selection for the AVS match, scheduled for Saturday at 18:00, indicates a blend of continuity and subtle adjustment. Rather than a radical overhaul, the former Chelsea, Inter, Real Madrid, and Porto boss has opted for a single, impactful change from the squad that faced Qarabag. Andreas Schjelderup makes way for striker Ivanovic, suggesting a clear intent to bolster the attacking options.
The tactical blueprint appears to be a familiar 4-4-2 diamond formation. This classic Mourinho setup emphasizes midfield dominance and a strong attacking pivot. Sudakov is positioned behind the two main strikers, expected to be the creative hub, while Aursnes and Richard Ríos take up the roles of interior midfielders, tasked with both disrupting opposition play and supporting the attack.
Benfica`s Starting XI: A Blend of Steel and Skill
The chosen eleven reflects a careful consideration of the squad`s strengths and the immediate challenge. Here`s a breakdown of Mourinho`s first formidable lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Trubin
- Defenders: Dedic, António Silva, Otamendi, Dahl
- Midfielders: Enzo Barrenechea, Richard Ríos, Aursnes, Sudakov
- Forwards: Ivanovic, Pavlidis
The defensive spine features experienced stalwarts like Otamendi, providing the grit and leadership Mourinho often demands. The midfield, with the energetic Barrenechea, the dynamic Ríos, and the versatile Aursnes, is designed for both defensive solidity and quick transitions. Upfront, the inclusion of Ivanovic alongside Pavlidis signals a direct approach, aiming to put immediate pressure on the AVS defense.
From the Bench: Depth and Future Prospects
Mourinho also has a strong contingent of substitutes at his disposal, highlighting the depth within the Benfica squad:
- Samuel Soares, Rafael Obrador, Leandro Barreiro, Andreas Schjelderup, Prestianni, Henrique Araújo, Tomás Araújo, João Veloso, and João Rego.
Notably, Schjelderup, who started the previous match, is now on the bench, offering a valuable attacking option should Mourinho require a change of pace or a different creative spark during the game.
AVS: The First Obstacle
Benfica`s opponent, AVS, will be keen to make their mark against the league giants, especially with the global spotlight now fixed on the match due to Mourinho`s return. Their starting lineup includes:
- Goalkeeper: Simão
- Defenders: Bane, Paulo Vítor, Devenish, Kiki
- Midfielders: Jaume, Algobia, O. Perea, B. Lourenço, Tunde
- Forward: Tomané
AVS`s tactical setup suggests they will be organized and look to exploit any early-game jitters from a Benfica side adapting to new leadership. While not possessing the star power of Benfica, AVS will undoubtedly play with increased motivation, aiming to spoil Mourinho`s highly anticipated comeback party.
“It`s not about making a statement with numerous changes,” one pundit remarked, “it`s about making a statement with the right change, and reminding everyone who is in charge now. Mourinho`s magic often starts subtly before exploding.”
The Journey Begins
José Mourinho`s return to Benfica is more than just a managerial appointment; it`s a narrative infused with history, ambition, and the undeniable allure of a footballing icon. All eyes will be on the Estádio da Luz as the Eagles embark on a new chapter under their legendary, and some might say, eternally controversial, leader. The “Special One” is back where a piece of his story began, ready to write the next thrilling installment.
