Recovered from injury, midfielder Lucas Paquetá is back in the Flamengo squad and has become a key piece in Leonardo Jardim’s plans for the remainder of the season.
After a period on the sidelines due to an injury sustained while playing for the Brazil national team, Lucas Paquetá is officially back with Flamengo.
The player, who sacrificed his vacation time to accelerate his recovery at Ninho do Urubu, strengthens the Rubro-Negro squad for the clash against Vitória in the 22nd round of the Brazilian Serie A.
His return comes at a strategic moment for the club. For the first time in a long while, head coach Leonardo Jardim faces a ‘positive headache’ when setting up his midfield.
With Paquetá back, the coach must now define his ideal lineup in a sector that features heavy hitters such as Arrascaeta, Pulgar, Jorginho, Evertton Araújo, and Saúl.
The weight of the investment
As the most expensive signing in the history of the club, costing approximately R$ 315.669 million, Paquetá has racked up 24 appearances and eight goals since returning to the Rio de Janeiro side.
The player’s dedication during his physical therapy process was highlighted by the coaching staff, which followed a rigorous protocol to ensure his safe return to the pitch.
Maybe Flamengo didn’t need me, but I needed Flamengo.
The number 20 stated, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s current project.
Full focus on competitions
Paquetá’s presence is not seen merely as a short-term boost for the Brazilian Serie A. The coaching staff is planning the midfielder’s full integration with an eye on the decisive clash against Cruzeiro in the Copa Libertadores Round of 16.
The match, which will be played at the Mineirão, is being treated as the squad’s top priority.
The M360 Team continues to follow the behind-the-scenes developments at Flamengo, as the club seeks not only tactical adjustments but also the strengthening of its roster to achieve its goals for the second half of 2026.
The expectation is that Paquetá’s return will provide the creativity needed for the Rubro-Negro to regain its status as a frontrunner in the competitions it is contesting.
M360 Team
