Benfica have confirmed that Tomas Araujo will remain with the club despite interest from Crystal Palace. The Portuguese giants have decisively rejected a bid from the English club, emphasizing Araujo’s importance to their defensive lineup.
- Benfica confirms Tomas Araujo’s stay amidst Crystal Palace’s interest.
- Roger Schmidt reaffirms Araujo’s importance to the team.
- Crystal Palace’s bid decisively rejected.
Tomas Araujo’s Commitment to Benfica
Benfica’s head coach, Roger Schmidt, has firmly stated that Tomas Araujo will remain with the Portuguese giants this summer. The 22-year-old centre-back, who also has the versatility to play as a right-back, has been a pivotal player for Benfica since joining on July 1, 2022. Araujo’s contract with the club runs until June 30, 2028, and his market value has surged to €7.00 million as of June 2024, reflecting his growing importance on the team.
The club’s rejection of Crystal Palace’s official bid underscores Araujo’s integral role in Benfica’s defensive lineup. Given his strong performances and potential for future success, it’s clear why Schmidt is keen on retaining him. Araujo’s youth career spanned several clubs, ultimately leading to his development at Benfica’s academy where he polished his defensive skills.
🔴🦅 “Tomas Araujo will 100% stay at Benfica this summer”, says Roger Schmidt.
Crystal Palace official bid has been rejected. https://t.co/XK35iRX6lX
pic.twitter.com— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano)
August 23, 2024
Crystal Palace’s Bid and Benfica’s Response
Crystal Palace’s persistent efforts to secure Araujo were met with a decisive rebuttal from Benfica. The English club’s official bid aimed to bring the talented defender to Selhurst Park, but Schmidt’s commitment to keeping Araujo was unwavering. This move highlights the competitive nature of the transfer market and the strategic decisions clubs must make to maintain their squad strength.
Araujo has also been a standout for Portugal’s U21 team, earning 10 caps and showcasing his defensive prowess on the international stage. His performances have not gone unnoticed, prompting clubs like Crystal Palace to pursue him. However, Benfica’s management and coaching staff have made it clear that Araujo is not for sale, ensuring stability in their defensive unit for the upcoming season.
Roger Schmidt’s Tactical Vision
Roger Schmidt’s tenure at Benfica has been marked by a high-pressing, attacking style of football, which has brought significant success to the club. Appointed on July 1, 2022, Schmidt has managed 113 matches with an impressive 2.27 points per match ratio. His strategic acumen and ability to manage top-tier clubs effectively have been crucial in his decision to retain key players like Tomas Araujo.
Schmidt’s coaching career spans several successful stints, including PSV Eindhoven, Beijing Guoan, and Bayer Leverkusen, where he honed his tactical expertise. His preferred 4-2-3-1 formation relies heavily on a strong defensive core, making Araujo’s role even more critical. By rejecting Crystal Palace’s bid, Schmidt has reinforced his vision for Benfica’s future, ensuring that the team remains competitive both domestically and in European competitions.
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