Francesco Farioli is poised to make significant changes to his starting lineup for the upcoming match against V. Guimarães, scheduled for Thursday. After the last game against Estoril, it was determined that Diogo Costa and Froholdt will not retain their starting positions.
Team Adjustments Ahead of V. Guimarães Match
Farioli’s decision stems from a desire to rest both players. Luuk de Jong will also miss the match as he continues to recover from a left knee injury. The medical team, led by Nélson Puga, has worked diligently, but De Jong is still unable to compete.
Injury Updates and Player Fitness
On a positive note, Deniz Gul participated in a conditioned training session and has been included in the match squad. He will be joined by Karamoh, Ángel Alarcón, and Tomás Pérez. Pérez is particularly eager to make his debut this season.
Key Positions Under Review
The most uncertain position lies in goal, especially with the absence of the captain. Cláudio Ramos and João Costa are vying for the starting role. Cláudio currently holds a slight edge as he has played fewer matches this season, making him a favorable choice to replace Diogo Costa.
Defensive and Midfield Lineup Challenges
In defense, Martim Fernandes, Prpic, and Zaidu are competing for a spot in the starting formation. Meanwhile, in midfield, Stephen Eustáquio stands out as a strong candidate to take the place of Froholdt. Gabri Veiga, who didn’t start against Estoril, could reclaim his position alongside Pepê, who had a limited role last match.
Forward Options and Tactical Decisions
Regarding the attacking front, with Gul’s late fitness recovery, Samu is likely to maintain his position. However, Rodrigo Mora remains a viable option, potentially serving as a “false 9” if needed. The competition between William Gomes and Borja Sainz for the wing positions adds another layer of tactical complexity.
With numerous variables at play, fans are eagerly anticipating how the team will perform against V. Guimarães and the outcomes of Farioli’s selections.
