Matheus Reis consistently demonstrated competent football skills throughout his career.
In the wake of a heated incident between Matheus Reis and Andrea Belotti during the Portuguese League final between Benfica and Sporting, the defender has found himself at the center of controversy. Amid exchanges between the two clubs, a disciplinary hearing at the Portuguese Football Federation's Disciplinary Council, and an investigation by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Reis has chosen to take a family vacation in Brazil.
The question remains, however, as to the opinions of those who have worked closely with Reis. In an exclusive interview with Desporto ao Minuto, Tiago Teixeira, a former assistant coach of Sporting, offered insight into Reis' character. Teixeira recalled a player who was always concerned about his teammates, never exhibiting a malicious attitude during training or play.
"Images can be interpreted in different ways. Matheus knows best what transpired in that moment. Knowing him as I do, and having had the opportunity to work with him, Matheus was never a player with such an attitude. He was always one of the most concerned players for the group and was always by his colleagues' side. He never intended to hurt anyone during training and was always concerned with his teammates' well-being," Teixeira said.
Teixeira also dismissed the idea that the defender could be psychologically affected by the situation, stating that it was a game incident that had been resolved. The former assistant coach emphasized that players were focusing on recovering for the new season and that Reis would not alter his playing style.
"Matheus should remain who he is. If he reached the top, it was because of his character, the way he trains, and the intensity he puts into every play. He, along with all the players, should continue as they are," Teixeira concluded.
While no specific opinions from Reis’ former assistants or teammates regarding the controversial incident have been reported, the incident has met with widespread criticism from fans, officials, and other stakeholders. Benfica has filed a complaint against Reis for aggressive play during the match, and Nuno Lobo, a former presidential candidate for FC Porto, has publicly condemned the behavior as unacceptable.
Although Matheus Reis' actions during the Portuguese League final have sparked debate among fans, officials, and stakeholders, Tiago Teixeira, a former assistant coach of Sporting, believes Reis' character is not defined by the incident. In a recent interview, Teixeira described Reis as a player who always prioritized his teammates and never displayed a malicious attitude, whether in training or during play.
