RTI Esporte
·21 September 2026
Corinthians widen cushion to avoid training-ground protests

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Yahoo sportsRTI Esporte
·21 September 2026

Corinthians’ squad was given four days off after the 3-1 defeat to Fluminense last Sunday, the 20th, at Neo Química Arena. The board’s decision had already been made even before Sunday’s match. However, after the defeat, it was decided that the players would only return to work on Friday, the 25th.
It is worth remembering that, during the FIFA international break, Corinthians will have 17 days of preparation focused on training, without having to take the field. In addition to the rest period, the football department understood that the days away from the training center would be important so the group could relax mentally and come back better.
Another point considered was the possibility of taking the focus away from the workplace and reducing the chance of another fan protest during the squad’s activities. It is worth noting that, after the Copa Libertadores elimination to Estudiantes, leaders of Timão’s main organized supporter groups went to the training center to confront the group.
The same happened in the stands of Neo Química Arena before and after the defeat to Fluminense. After the final whistle, the fans once again called for coach Fernando Diniz to be dismissed, and he only did not leave the club because of a request from the players.
What is expected is that the squad will report back to begin preparations during the FIFA international break in a friendlier atmosphere for the resumption of the Brazilian Championship. In 14th place with 32 points, Corinthians have suffered six consecutive defeats in the Brasileirão and could enter the relegation zone in the first round after the FIFA international break.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.