Corinthians could regain André Luiz for Libertadores decider, Yuri Alberto unlikely to return | OneFootball

Corinthians could regain midfielder André Luiz for the Libertadores quarter-final second leg on Wednesday 16 September at Neo Química Arena, while striker Yuri Alberto is unlikely to feature.

According to Meu Timao, André Luiz has advanced in his recovery from a grade 2 right thigh injury and has a good chance of making Fernando Diniz’s squad. Yuri Alberto suffered a setback with a similar issue in his right thigh and currently has no timeframe after fibrosis disrupted his rehabilitation.

The first leg against Estudiantes in La Plata finished 1-1 at Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi. Corinthians will progress with any home win, while another draw would send the tie to penalties, with Flamengo or Independiente del Valle of Ecuador awaiting the winners.

Diniz said Yuri is sorely missed and might even push for a national-team place when fit. He praised the medical staff but stressed that, although a return is possible, he cannot guarantee it.

Yuri Alberto has not played since 30 July, a 0-0 draw against Athletico-PR, when he came off the bench, felt pain and was withdrawn. He remains Corinthians’ top scorer this season with eight goals.

André Luiz last featured on 6 August, a 2-1 win over Internacional in the Copa do Brasil quarter-finals, before a thigh problem forced him off. He resumed on-field work with physios on 26 August and has since been in the transition phase. Nottingham Forest showed late-window interest, but no agreement was reached as Corinthians sought up to £15 million, around R$105 million.

Source: Meu Timao

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