José Mourinho, the head coach of Benfica, provided candid remarks following his team’s recent victory over Atlético in the fourth round of the Taça de Portugal. He praised Atlético’s remarkable performance but expressed disappointment in his team’s attitude.
Mourinho Criticizes Team’s Seriousness
In his post-match interview with RTP, Mourinho highlighted several issues that affected Benfica’s first-half performance. He specifically pointed out the lack of seriousness demonstrated by many players, stating that it deeply concerned him. Mourinho mentioned, “There were many players who were not serious and did not approach the game as they should have.”
Substitutions and Team Dynamics
Mourinho implemented four substitutions during halftime, indicating that he wished he could have made nine. He remarked that only two players seemed committed to the match and deserved to remain on the field. He noted, “The second half improved significantly, as Atlético could no longer play with the same quality.”
Player Performances and Future Prospects
One player who caught Mourinho’s attention was Rodrigo Rêgo. Mourinho stated that Rêgo impressed him, affirming, “He had a very positive game and was one of the players I wanted to keep on the pitch.” Despite the team’s struggles, Mourinho emphasized that Rêgo’s dedication set him apart.
Changing Tactics
While Mourinho modified the team’s system for the match, he reverted to a previous strategy during halftime. He expressed that player performances dictated this decision, stating that certain players were absent from the match from the very beginning, which was unacceptable.
Responsibility to the Fans
- Mourinho reaffirmed his accountability as the head coach.
- He emphasized the players’ responsibility toward fans and the club.
- Attitude-related issues are not acceptable, as per his assessment.
In closing, Mourinho’s candid analysis reflects his commitment to improving team dynamics and accountability. As Benfica prepares for future matches, the emphasis on seriousness and dedication will be pivotal for their success.
