Dealing with knee pain, forward Gonzalo Plata is a confirmed absence for Flamengo’s crucial match against São Paulo in the 20th round of the Brazilian Serie A.
Flamengo fans received concerning news for the remainder of the Brazilian Serie A season. Forward Gonzalo Plata, one of the squad’s standout players, is expected to be a confirmed absence for Sunday’s (26) match against São Paulo. The Ecuadorian did not participate in Friday’s (24) training session and is still treating tendinitis in his right knee.
The physical issue arose during the clash against Chapecoense last Wednesday (22), when the player had to be substituted in the first half after feeling sharp pain. Since then, the athlete has not taken the field, making his start for the match at the Maracanã improbable.
The Battle for a Spot in Attack
With Plata’s absence, coach Leonardo Jardim is evaluating options for the offensive sector. Young Lorran appears as the favorite to start, especially after coming on well in the last game and scoring one of the goals in the rout over Chapecoense. However, Everton Cebolinha and Nico De la Cruz also emerge as viable alternatives for the Rubro-Negro tactical scheme.
Lineup and Important Returns
Flamengo’s probable lineup to face the Tricolor Paulista includes: Agustín Rossi, Guillermo Varela, Vitão, Léo Pereira, and Alex Sandro; Erick Pulgar, Jorginho, and Samuel Lino; Bruno Henrique, Lorran, and Pedro. It’s worth noting that Luiz Araújo, who could also play on the wing, remains under the care of the medical department.
On the other hand, fans have a reason to celebrate: defender Léo Ortiz is back. Recovered from injury, he will be included in the squad list after a period of absence that coincided with the World Cup. The expectation is that he will start on the bench to gradually regain match fitness.
Full Coverage and Broadcast
The match between Flamengo and São Paulo will kick off at 6:30 PM BRT (Brasília Time) and will feature exclusive broadcast by the Premiere channel. As always, fans can count on the complete and passionate coverage from Coluna do Fla, with reporters Rock Hudson and Rodrigo Lima bringing all the behind-the-scenes action directly from the Maracanã pitch.
The Newsroom’s Take
Regarding the athlete’s situation, journalist Pedro Paulo Catonho commented:
“Red flag with Plata. Jardim mentioned that the Ecuadorian arrived with these knee pains after the World Cup. Subsequently, the player was played on the synthetic pitch in the rain at Arena Condá. It’s good that he is rested against São Paulo so that it doesn’t get worse.”
The technical committee’s caution is seen as essential to ensure Plata doesn’t suffer a more serious injury, preserving the player for the remainder of the season.
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