Manager Leonardo Jardim has confirmed that Gonzalo Plata will join the Flamengo squad ahead of their decisive Libertadores clash against Independiente del Valle.
Life as an elite manager in Brazilian football leaves little room for extended celebrations.
Shortly after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Remo at the Mangueirão in the Brazilian Serie A, Flamengo head coach Leonardo Jardim had to immediately shift his focus to the continental stage. The team’s full attention is now on preparing for the first leg against Independiente del Valle in Ecuador.
One of the most anticipated topics during the post-match press conference was the status of forward Gonzalo Plata.
Following a failed transfer move to Dynamo Moscow, the player has finally arrived in the country, and he is expected to join the squad in Belém before they depart for Quito. The Portuguese manager, however, remains cautious about using the player at an altitude of 2,850 meters.
Caution with Plata and focus on altitude
The manager made it clear that the final decision regarding Plata’s inclusion in the lineup will depend entirely on his physical condition, given that he has only just rejoined the group.
Jardim stated:
Regarding Plata, he should be arriving. If he is in good physical condition… We still have four days until the match, so we will make that decision later on.
The strategic objective for Thursday’s (10th) clash is to keep the team competitive. For the coaching staff, the priority is to secure a result that leaves Flamengo in a strong position to decide the series at the Maracanã.
Samuel Lino’s versatility
Beyond transfer market news and the Libertadores, the performance of Samuel Lino was a highlight of the interview.
The number 16, who scored the winning goal in Belém, received praise from the manager for his versatility. Jardim highlighted that the player provides tactical nuances that enrich the team’s collective play, capable of contributing to both the offensive buildup and defensive support.
Jardim explained:
Lino has shown this season that he has versatility. He can play more than one role. He has embraced some of the ideas I had for him, and he is executing that plan well in both the offensive and defensive phases.
Looking ahead
Flamengo is maintaining a “feet on the ground” philosophy.
The coach emphasized that despite their good form, humility and tactical discipline are the pillars needed for the club to reach its goals this season. The squad is now preparing for the challenge in the altitude of Quito, where energy management and collective strength will be tested against an opponent currently on a strong run.
