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Mourinho discusses Camara and Solbakken’s limited playing time

Andy Mattioli

Roma manager Jose Mourinho was criticized by the media following his decision to avoid putting Solbakken on for Paulo Dybala in the second half to tonight’s win over Empoli despite the Argentine’s visible physical issues caused by a bruised tailbone.

In his post-match press conference, the Special One addressed Mady Camara and Ola Solbakken’s limited playing time.

“Camara was signed temporarily to replace Wijnaldum on the final day of the transfer window. He’s here to help us and if we need him, he’ll give us a hand,” Mourinho told reporters earlier tonight.

“We didn’t buy Solbakken, he couldn’t even be there for training camp. He joined on 1 January, therefore he is not yet part of the team’s dynamics. In the 34th minute I thought about changing Dybala, I didn’t think about playing with the same dynamics and structure. The game is played, the minutes go by, then there are 20-25 minutes left and my team is low on fuel, at that moment I don’t want to risk it with a player who doesn’t know the difference between 3-5-2, doesn’t understand high pressure or high pressing.”

“He has to learn to play with us. The kid has quality but if we are 2-0 up at home, I prefer to shut and go home with 40 points which for me is an extraordinary thing. Someone will say no, someone will say that we had to be up there with Napoli on equal points, but for me it’s an extraordinary result.”

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MatchDay 24
9 Feb 12:30
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