Flamengo’s opponent in the Libertadores semifinal, Estudiantes is making waves in the South American transfer market by attempting to sign Marcos Rojo, formerly of Manchester United.
The final stretch of the Libertadores promises intense thrills for Flamengo. While the Rubro-Negro squad remains focused on preparations for the semifinal, Estudiantes, their upcoming opponent in the continental tournament, is looking to strengthen its roster with a major signing.
The Argentine board is working on securing the experienced center-back Marcos Rojo to bolster their defense for the decisive clash.
According to reports from ESPN Argentina, the club from La Plata is in advanced negotiations to agree on a financial compensation package with Racing. The goal is to release the player, who is under contract with the Avellaneda-based club until the end of 2026.
Rojo, who spent a significant portion of his career in European football, is a familiar name to Argentine supporters, having come through the youth ranks at Estudiantes itself.
Return to his roots
The potential transfer highlights the club’s interest in bringing back one of its major icons. Between 2009 and 2011, the defender made 54 appearances for the senior team, establishing his career before moving on to bigger stages abroad.
The experience of the 2014 World Cup runner-up is viewed by the coaching staff as a decisive factor in handling the pressure of the matchup against the four-time Brazilian champions.
History against Mais Querido
If confirmed, the reunion with Flamengo will carry extra spice. Marcos Rojo was on the pitch against the Rio de Janeiro side in the 2025 semifinal while wearing the Racing shirt.
On that occasion, the center-back was at the center of a crucial moment at the Maracanã:
In the first leg, the defender ended up scoring an own goal that secured a 1-0 advantage for the Rubro-Negro in the tie.
Furthermore, the player was involved in the controversial incident that resulted in the red card for forward Gonzalo Plata in the return leg, adding even more intensity to the atmosphere for this new duel.
Road to the final
The matches that will decide who advances to the grand Libertadores final are scheduled for October 15 and 22. The first leg will take place at the Estadio UNO in Argentina.
Since Flamengo secured the best record during the group stage, the Rubro-Negro will have the advantage of playing the deciding leg at home in front of their supporters at the Maracanã.
The team coached by Filipe Luís continues to work hard to maintain the high level of performance shown in 2025. The focus is absolute as the club chases back-to-back tournament titles, reinforcing its hegemony on the continental stage.
Equipe M360
