Rafa Benitez approved Richarlison’s Olympics request to forge a positive relationship
Everton forward Richarlison will be representing Brazil at the summer Olympics a few days after the Copa final against Argentina.
They decided to let him go after he spent the whole day arguing and trying to convince them and new manager Rafa Benitez [ESPN Brasil (via UOL)].
According to The Athletic, the Spaniard granted his request in order to “forge positive relationships” at Everton, while the club know “there is more chance of keeping Richarlison if he is happy and hope he will be incentivised to return to his top level.”
Good move
The 24-year-old will be missing pre-season preparations at Finch Farm and the start of the new campaign as a result of participating in two international tournaments.
However, Everton and Benitez needed to reach that compromise if they want to count on Richarlison next season.
We would have loved to have him getting enough rest ahead of the new campaign, but stopping him from playing at the Olympics could have ended up putting a strain on the relationship between player and club.
The Brazil international has been frequently linked with Real Madrid since Carlo Ancelotti walked away, and Benitez knows he needs to start life as Toffees manager on a cordial note with everyone.
We wish Richarlison well ahead of Sunday’s final and at the Olympics, and having him return to Goodison Park with at least a winners’ medal this summer would help fire him up for the new season.
It is a smart move from both club and manager, as opposed to having a sulking player to deal with.
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