Abel weighs up midfield options as Palmeiras eye Libertadores final

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Nosso Palestra

·18 November 2025

Abel weighs up midfield options as Palmeiras eye Libertadores final

The final stretch of the season places Palmeiras before one of the most important decisions of the year: choosing the ideal substitute for the role of the first defensive midfielder in the Copa Libertadores final. With more three games before the continental decision, Abel Ferreira is working with three candidates for the position: Aníbal Moreno, Emiliano Martínez, and Bruno Fuchs.

The uncertainty arises at a moment of recovery for the squad, after physical wear and tear, call-ups, and individual fluctuations. Below, see the pros and cons of each option analyzed by the technical staff.

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Bruno Fuchs

Pros:

Outstanding quality in ball distribution, with the ability to accelerate play-building from the defense.
Tactical intelligence and game reading that favor a team that values control and possession.

Cons:

He is a natural center-back, and his use as a midfielder is circumstantial.
May struggle in high-pressure situations or defensive transitions, as he is not a specialist in the position.

Aníbal Moreno

Pros:

Having a good season with consistent numbers in midfield.
Was called up to the Argentine national team, highlighting his growth and recognition.

Cons:

Shows fluctuations in big games, accumulating errors in decisive moments.
Confidence issues weigh in the technical staff's analysis for an international final.

Emiliano Martínez

Pros:

Also called up by his national team, shows physical and technical potential to play as a midfielder.
Has the energy to press, recover, and occupy spaces in midfield.

Cons:

Has not yet assumed an important role in the Palmeiras squad.
Lacks rhythm and continuity to be considered a certainty in the decision.

Three games for a crucial decision

With the calendar tightening, Abel Ferreira will have only three more matches to observe the three candidates in different scenarios and adjust the team that will take the field in the Libertadores final. The choice of the first defensive midfielder can directly influence the defensive balance, ball circulation, and midfield control — decisive aspects in matches of this magnitude.

Upcoming Palmeiras matches

Palmeiras vs. Vitória – Brazilian Championship – 11/19 – 7:30 PM (Brasília time)
Palmeiras vs. Fluminense – Brazilian Championship – 11/22 – 9:30 PM (Brasília time)

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.