Flamengo continues to make the most of the FIFA window at the Ninho do Urubu training complex, where manager Leonardo Jardim is leading his eighth consecutive session without the players called up to their national teams.
The extended break in the Brazilian football calendar, now known as the Super FIFA Window, has required adaptation from the Rubro-Negro coaching staff.
With an extended 16-day duration aimed at reducing long intercontinental travel, the period has been used to fine-tune the physical and tactical aspects of the squad remaining in Rio de Janeiro.
However, the absence of key players and recent physical issues have altered the team’s plans.
As the squad reconvenes for another training session this Saturday (3), the coaching staff is closely monitoring the status of players on international duty and those who returned injured from the international break.
Key absences and a major injury
During training sessions at the Ninho do Urubu training center, Leonardo Jardim has been without players who are regular starters.
Forwards Samuel Lino and Pedro were called up to international duty by the Brazil national team, alongside Anthony Valencia for Ecuador and full-back Varela for Uruguay.
The most concerning situation, however, involves midfielder Arrascaeta.
The player sustained an injury while with the Uruguayan national team, had to return early to Rio de Janeiro, and underwent surgery last Thursday (1), ruling him out indefinitely for the remainder of the season.
Next steps in the Brazilian Serie A
The official end of the international window is scheduled for next Tuesday (6), when clubs will begin welcoming back their players.
Recovery time for those called up will be short, requiring a swift assessment from the coaching staff ahead of the upcoming official fixtures in the national tournament.
Flamengo returns to action on Thursday (8).
The Rubro-Negro squad travels to the coast of São Paulo to face Santos at Vila Belmiro in a match valid for the 29th round of the Brazilian Serie A, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. (Brasília time).
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