Dorival Júnior explains limited use of Zakaria Labyad after Corinthians’ 3-1 loss to Fluminense | OneFootball

Corinthians lost 3-1 to Fluminense at the Maracanã on Wednesday in round nine of the Campeonato Brasileiro. The night also featured debutant Jesse Lingard and rare minutes for Kauê and Zakaria Labyad, with Dorival Júnior addressing the latter’s limited use.

As reported by Meu Timao, this was only Labyad’s second outing for Corinthians. He first appeared in the defeat to Coritiba on 11 March with the score already 2-0 to Coritiba. Against Fluminense he replaced Yuri Alberto at 31 minutes of the second half.

Dorival said the Moroccan has entered both times with his side chasing the game, and that anyone on the bench must be ready to come on in positive or adverse moments. He stressed this is not specific to one player.

Signed on 20 February, Labyad has logged 23 minutes so far. Lingard has 45 minutes from his debut. Dorival added that Labyad is gradually improving, showed endeavour and looked to link with Lingard, and that future chances could come in more favourable conditions.

Of Corinthians’ seven 2026 signings, Labyad has been used least. At the other end, Gabriel Paulista, the first recruit on 11 January, has become a starter alongside Gustavo Henrique.

Corinthians host Internacional on Sunday in round 10 of the Campeonato Brasileiro at the Neo Química Arena, seeking to end an eight-match winless run and improve their position in the table.

Source: Meu Timao