Marco Silva has been backing Samuel Soares as Benfica's first-choice goalkeeper since the start of the season, leaving Anatoliy Trubin out of the starting eleven in practically all matches. The goalkeeper who came through the Seixal academy has taken over the number one spot and earned the trust of the Eagles' coach, with Trubin only starting in the two European pre-qualifying matches against St. Gallen.
Commentator Mário Figueiredo, on the Now channel, has no doubts that Trubin is currently superior to Samuel Soares. According to the former goalkeeper, Trubin's value has been evident over three seasons, highlighting that the Ukrainian goalkeeper saves very well, although he makes some occasional errors.
Mário Figueiredo believes Marco Silva is keen to see how Samuel Soares responds when the games start to get tougher and the opponents are at Benfica's level. The coach's strategy involves giving the young goalkeeper continuity to understand his behavior under higher levels of demand.
The Eagles intend to renew Trubin's contract, whose current deal is approaching its end. Mário Figueiredo acknowledges the keeper's quality but points out that he has shown some occasional lapses that may have influenced Marco Silva's decision to prioritize Samuel Soares in goal.
