Head coach Leonardo Jardim receives important reinforcements for this Sunday’s clash against Vitória, aiming to keep Flamengo close behind leader Palmeiras in the Brazilian Serie A.
Flamengo is preparing for a decisive Brazilian Serie A match, hosting Vitória at the Maracanã this Sunday at 7:30 PM. For the 22nd round, the red-and-black squad is expected to see the return of key players who were sidelined with injuries, strengthening the team at a crucial moment of the season.
Head coach Leonardo Jardim will finalize the last details of the lineup this Saturday. After completing their recovery programs, Paquetá and Plata trained normally with the rest of the group, and both are expected to be called up for the clash against the Bahian side.
Léo Ortiz’s Return
One of the main points of focus is the possible return of Léo Ortiz to the starting lineup. The defender, sidelined since late May due to a right thigh injury, is seen as a key player to improve ball distribution, an area that has received recurrent criticism in the team’s recent performances.
As reported by Equipe M360, the coaching staff’s strategy is clear:
The need for team chemistry and the search for tactical consistency before the Libertadores challenges make the presence of experienced names like Ortiz a priority at this moment.
Table Standings and Planning
Even with the decisive Libertadores clash against Cruzeiro scheduled for three days later, Jardim plans to use his full-strength squad. Flamengo, currently second with 39 points, needs to win to cut the eight-point disadvantage against Palmeiras, who plays earlier in the round.
The probable lineup includes: Rossi; Varela (or Royal), Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, and Alex Sandro; Pulgar, Jorginho, and Arrascaeta; Plata (or Paquetá), Samuel Lino, and Pedro. The only confirmed absence remains Luiz Araújo, who is finalizing treatment for a knee injury.
The match at the Maracanã will serve as a test for the red-and-black squad. In addition to keeping the dream of a national title alive, a good result at home is crucial to boost the players’ morale before the marathon of decisive matches the club will face in the coming weeks.
Equipe M360
