Manager Fernando Diniz is putting the final touches on his Corinthians squad ahead of the match against Chapecoense, as the team looks to get back on track in the Brazilian Serie A amidst a grueling stretch of decisive games.
Corinthians is facing immense pressure in the Brazilian Serie A. Following three consecutive defeats, the club based at Parque São Jorge currently sits in tenth place with 32 points, making it vital for them to secure points in the standings.
Under the guidance of Fernando Diniz, the squad trained on Friday morning at the CT Joaquim Grava facility, focusing on the upcoming clash against Chapecoense, scheduled for this Sunday at 7:30 PM at the Neo Química Arena.
Despite the looming first leg of the CONMEBOL Libertadores quarter-finals against Estudiantes in Argentina, the manager is not expected to rotate his lineup completely.
Diniz’s strategy reflects the urgency to halt the team’s slide in the domestic competition while maintaining a competitive base for this weekend’s challenge.
Absences and lineup changes
The coaching staff’s plans have undergone significant adjustments due to suspensions and injury concerns.
Goalkeeper Hugo Souza, defender Gabriel Paulista, and midfielder Raniele are ruled out due to yellow card accumulation.
Furthermore, the medical department remains busy: midfielder André and striker Yuri Alberto continue to receive treatment for thigh injuries, with no set date for their return.
Defender André Ramalho, who has been dealing with labyrinthitis, is also confirmed as unavailable.
The priority right now is to regain our tactical balance and return to winning ways, regardless of the competition we have ahead of us next Wednesday.
Probable lineup and outlook
To cover the absences, Fernando Diniz outlined a lineup likely featuring Kauê in goal and a back line composed of Matheuzinho, João Pedro Tchoca, Gustavo Henrique, and Matheus Bidu — with Angileri also in the mix.
In midfield, the structure is expected to be built around Allan, Matheus Pereira (or Carrillo), Breno Bidon, and the Argentine Rodrigo Garro, the team’s primary playmaker.
Up front, the expected duo is Kaio César and star forward Memphis Depay.
Winning on Sunday is not only a matter of climbing the Brazilian Serie A table, but also a crucial boost to morale for the remainder of the season.
With the continental clash against Estudiantes set for next Wednesday at 9:30 PM, the result against the team from Santa Catarina will serve as a barometer for the mental and physical resilience of the Corinthians group during this decisive stage of 2024.
