Lucas Paquetá returns to training with Flamengo and is expected to bolster the squad in the clash against Internacional in the Brazilian Serie A.
Flamengo is anticipating an important return for the remainder of the season. This Monday (27), midfielder Lucas Paquetá participated in his first training session with the main squad after recovering from a muscle injury in his left thigh, sustained during the World Cup.
Return After a Month-Long Absence
The player, who suffered an injury in the match between Brazil and Japan in the World Cup Round of 16 on June 29, has not played for exactly a month. Paquetá’s absence was felt both with the national team and for the Rubro-Negro, who could not rely on the player in recent clashes against Chapecoense and São Paulo.
Medical Department Monitoring
Although Lucas Paquetá has been cleared by the medical department, Flamengo remains cautious with the rest of the squad. The club is currently monitoring the recovery of Gonzalo Plata, who is being treated for tendinitis in his right knee, and Luiz Araújo, who sustained a knee trauma. Conversely, defender Léo Ortiz is already fully integrated into training.
Planning for Beira-Rio
Leonardo Jardim’s coaching staff is expected to adopt a conservative strategy with Paquetá. The goal is for the player to gradually gain minutes, following a return plan similar to the one adopted with Arrascaeta. The team’s main focus is to ensure the best possible physical condition for the decisive Copa Libertadores Round of 16 match against Cruzeiro, scheduled for August 13.
Flamengo’s next match will be this Wednesday (29), at 7:30 PM BRT (Brasília Time). The clash against Internacional, for the 21st round of the Brazilian Serie A, will be played at Estádio Beira-Rio and will be broadcast exclusively on the Prime Video streaming service.
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