Tomás Araújo’s 2024/25 Liga Portugal campaign began with promise, cementing his place as a key figure in Benfica’s central defense. However, the young defender’s season has taken an unexpected turn, raising concerns about his development and physical well-being.

Initially, Araújo showcased his versatility, partnering with three different center-backs in the opening three matches, albeit with a different manager. But since the arrival of Bruno Lage, a consistent pairing with Otamendi emerged, establishing Araújo as a reliable presence in the heart of the defense.

Prior to the new year, he started 16 out of 18 matches in central defense, playing the full 90 minutes in all but one. That exception? Right-back duties, a temporary solution to Alexander Bah’s initial injury and subsequent return. Then, a shift occurred.

Between January 1st and February 8th, even with Bah available, Araújo found himself deployed at right-back six times, compared to just two appearances in his natural position.

Since Bah’s recent injury, the trend has intensified. Araújo has started seven times at right-back, and only once centrally. This positional change raises significant questions.

While Araújo possesses the pace and athleticism to contribute offensively, the demands of a full-back role are drastically different from those of a center-back.

The constant up-and-down movement, the need to contribute to attacking plays, and the reliance on pace to recover defensively place a heavy burden on his body.

With Benfica’s packed schedule, featuring matches every three to four days, the physical toll on Araújo is undeniable. Adding to what’s clear to see, he’s been subbed off 11 times this season, 10 of which were while playing right-back.

Initially, Lage had the option of Aursnes or the young Leandro Santos from the B team. Though Lage expressed confidence in the youth player, the practical solution was to use Tomás.

The consequences are now becoming apparent.

Not long ago, Roberto Martinez’s initial comments about a chronic injury, later corrected, hinted at underlying concerns. Since then, Araújo was substituted at halftime against Rio Ave and lasted only 58 minutes against Gil Vicente, suggesting his body is struggling to cope. Could Martinez have let slip a secret that wasn’t supposed to come to light?

The fear is twofold. Firstly, the extended period spent out of position could hinder his development as a center-back. The tactical nuances and positional awareness required for central defense are vastly different from those needed at right-back.

Secondly, the physical strain of playing out of position, coupled with the relentless fixture schedule, could have long-term detrimental effects on his physical well-being.

While versatility is a valuable asset, forcing a young player to consistently play out of position, especially in a physically demanding role, carries significant risks, especially when he’s showing signs of not being able to handle it.

Benfica must carefully consider the potential impact on Tomás Araújo’s development and prioritize his long-term health. Is this temporary solution worth the potential long term damage? Only time will tell.