Marcos Braz broke his silence regarding constant criticism of Nicolás De La Cruz’s signing by Flamengo, refuting claims of errors in the Uruguayan player’s arrival process.
The signing of midfielder Nicolás De La Cruz, completed in 2023 from River Plate (ARG), remains one of the most debated topics behind the scenes at Flamengo. Amid criticism of the athlete’s recurring physical issues, former rubro-negro football vice-president Marcos Braz defended the transaction, highlighting the Uruguayan’s importance to the team’s 2024 achievements.
Braz Defends Signing Process
In a recent interview with *Basticast*, Marcos Braz denied any technical or administrative flaws in the process that brought the player to Gávea. The executive emphasized that the athlete underwent all standard medical examinations and received full approval from the coaching staff at the time.
“First, I’m not a doctor. Second, he was more than recommended by the coaching staff. And third, he played in World Cups and played for River Plate. What didn’t work out? Technically? Sportingly? He was important in 2024”, stated the former director.
Medical Controversies and Squad Impact
The debate over De La Cruz‘s physical fitness escalated in 2025, involving the former head of the medical department, José Luiz Runco. At the time, the doctor publicly questioned the athlete’s competitive viability, which led to his dismissal from the club. The controversy raised questions about the $16 million investment made by Rodolfo Landim‘s administration.
On-Field Frequency and 2026 Projection
The current season’s data raises a red flag for the coaching staff. In 2026, De La Cruz has only appeared in 19 out of 40 matches played by Mais Querido. For comparison, striker Pedro, with the most appearances in the squad, has played 16 more games. The club’s strategy has been to rest the Uruguayan, especially in games played on artificial turf, aiming for physical preservation.
In 94 games wearing the rubro-negro jersey, the midfielder has scored four goals and provided seven assists. While his technical quality is undeniable, Flamengo‘s challenge remains ensuring its key players maintain the consistency needed for a season that demands participation in around 80 games, according to the analysis by the editorial team of Mengão 360.
