Back at Corinthians, Pedro Raul out to prove his worth to Dorival | OneFootball

Back after his loan to Ceará, Pedro Raul has been taking part in Corinthians' preseason at CT Dr. Joaquim Grava. The 29-year-old striker is trying to convince Dorival Júnior during training that he deserves a chance in the Paulista Championship.

Unlike Renato and Alex Santana, who also returned from loan, Pedro Raul is participating in Timão's first training sessions of 2026 as normal. Meanwhile, the duo has been working separately.

The center forward wants to stay and prove his worth at the club after a good spell at Ceará. Dorival, in turn, believes the player can be useful to the squad.

(Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Agência Corinthians)

The Corinthians board is not opposed to a sale, but will only negotiate the striker if an advantageous offer comes in. Otherwise, the player should be utilized by Dorival Júnior.

Absences for the debut

Pedro Raul could get a chance right away in Timão’s season opener. That’s because Memphis Depay and Yuri Alberto are unlikely to be available for the first round of the State Championship.

The Dutchman, who played through injury in the final of the Copa do Brasil, has been following an individualized schedule along with Raniele and has not yet returned to training with the squad. Meanwhile, the number 9 is in Italy to obtain his European passport and has no set date for his return.

Besides Pedro Raul, the other options for the position are: Gui Negão, Kayke, and Vitinho.

Frustrating spell

Pedro Raul’s time at Corinthians so far has been frustrating. Signed in 2024 from Toluca, Mexico, for approximately R$ 25 million, the striker scored only three goals in 32 matches in his first year with the Parque São Jorge team.

Wearing Ceará’s shirt in 2025, however, his numbers improved considerably. He scored 17 goals and provided two assists in 45 matches for Vozão.

Next Corinthians match

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