Saúl says he will skip holidays during World Cup pause | OneFootball

Flamengo midfielder Saúl says he will train through the World Cup pause rather than take a holiday as he chases full fitness after tendon surgery and a stuttering 2026.

As reported by Coluna Do Fla, the No 8 missed the opening months while recovering, then rushed to build form, and says he still has a long way to go. He noted he had not played many matches since 18 December and found the recent outing on Athletico-PR’s artificial pitch particularly tough, though he stepped in because the team needed him.

Starting against Cusco (PER) on Tuesday 26, he took a heavy challenge in the second half on the tendon in his left leg, the area previously operated on, and was substituted. He will undergo tests on Thursday 28 when the squad reconvenes, leaving him a doubt to face Coritiba.

He said pain had left him unsure of playing, yet waking up better gave him the chance to get minutes and build rhythm. He hopes each return will find him in stronger condition so he can compete on equal terms with team-mates.

He said the blow was exactly on the operated tendon and scar, and he does not know how serious it is. They will see how to treat it.

He expressed his admiration for South American football, thanked Flamengo for the opportunity and said he feels as involved as he once did at Atlético de Madrid, proud to wear the shirt. While part of the squad are off from Sunday 31 for roughly 15 days, he plans an individual programme to ease the pain and sharpen up for the second half of the year.

Source: Coluna Do Fla