Following the concrete defeat against Olympique Lyonnais in the Europa League, manager Ruben Amorim took the decision not to include André Oanana, his usual goalkeeper, in the group going to Newcastle in the Premier League. This exclusion, which took place a few days before the return match against OL, raised questions as to the nature of this decision, some of which perceived it as a direct sanction for the two mistakes made by the Cameroonian doorman at the European meeting.

However, Ruben Amorim wanted to clarify the situation, stating that this decision was not punitive. He explained that, as part of an athlete’s development, it is sometimes necessary to give him a break, an opportunity to replenish and refocus himself, in order to enable him to regain his full potential. This approach, in its own words, is part of a strategy to stimulate player progress.

The Portuguese manager said that André Oanana will resume training tomorrow, in order to actively prepare the next match. He pointed out that this rest period is seen as a propitious moment for reconnection with the game and mental preparation, rather than a direct consequence of his recent performances.