Flamengo is stepping up its preparations at the Ninho do Urubu training ground for the upcoming match against Santos. Head coach Leonardo Jardim is dealing with key absences, including the confirmed absence of Arrascaeta.
The Flamengo squad is working hard at the Ninho do Urubu training center, taking advantage of the FIFA international break to fine-tune details before returning to the official match schedule.
Led by Leonardo Jardim, the players held their seventh training session of this mini-interseason period on Friday (02), focusing heavily on physical and tactical preparation for their next challenge in the Brazilian Serie A.
The atmosphere at the club is one of total focus, although the medical department and international call-ups present considerable challenges for the coaching staff.
With the fixture against Santos scheduled for next Thursday (08) at the Vila Belmiro, the team aims to maintain its position at the top of the standings and its seven-game unbeaten run.
Arrascaeta’s absence and the alternatives
The most painful blow for Rubro-Negro fans is the absence of Arrascaeta. The Uruguayan midfielder suffered a fracture in his left wrist during a friendly match for his national team and underwent surgery last Thursday.
With a recovery time estimated between six and eight weeks, the player will miss crucial matches, including the Copa Libertadores semifinals.
To make up for the creativity in midfield, Leonardo Jardim is closely monitoring Jorge Carrascal and Saúl, who emerge as the main candidates to fill the creative role against Peixe.
Situation of international call-ups and the medical room
In addition to Arrascaeta‘s injury, the club is monitoring the return of players representing their respective national teams.
While Pedro and Samuel Lino are expected to reinforce the squad for the 29th-round match, travel fatigue makes it unlikely that Varela and Anthony Valencia will be used.
Regarding squad availability, Equipe M360 highlights a statement from director of football José Boto:
“Initially, (Varela and Anthony Valencia) will not face Santos. They are playing very far away and will not arrive in time. As for Pedro and Samuel Lino, we are counting on them; they will arrive on time.”
In the medical room, the positive news is Gonzalo Plata, who has recovered from muscle discomfort.
Meanwhile, Ayrton Lucas remains under care, while Evertton Araújo, dealing with a grade 3 injury, continues to be sidelined from group activities.
Decisive schedule ahead
After an 18-day hiatus, the clash against Santos marks the beginning of an exhaustive marathon for Flamengo.
The club will play five matches in just 15 days, including the derby against Fluminense and the continental showdown against Estudiantes.
Squad management by Leonardo Jardim will be crucial to maintaining the team’s performance, as they currently sit at the top of the Brazilian Serie A table with 60 points, three ahead of second-place Palmeiras.
