Filipe Luís discusses squad fitness and explains Flamengo line-up changes | OneFootball

Flamengo faces decisive clash on Thursday (26), against Lanús (ARG)

Physical condition has been one of the major topics at Flamengo at the start of the 2026 season. After the 3-0 victory over Madureira this Sunday (22), coach Filipe Luís commented on the matter and explained the reason for ‘mixing’ the team in the first games of the year.

— I’m not going to reveal the starting lineup for Thursday, but, as I said, Paquetá, Pulgar, Arrascaeta, the two Léos, Varela were not fully recovered. And so, there is a risk of injury — he said, before concluding:

— I chose to give some minutes to players who were at less risk. Erick was not in condition. I would like to repeat the lineup to build rhythm, but I have to make sure they are fresh enough to last the 90 minutes — Filipe Luís concluded.

Does Flamengo have absences due to physical issues?

Yes! Flamengo currently has two players in the Medical Department. Jorginho is recovering from a muscle injury in his left thigh, while Bruno Henrique experienced pubic pain and, for that reason, was left out of the win over Madureira.

What is the current situation in the Recopa Sudamericana?

Lanús won the first leg of the Recopa Sudamericana 1-0, last Thursday (19). Therefore, in the match at Maracanã, Flamengo will need to win to claim the title. If they win by a one-goal margin, the continental title will be decided on penalties.

What is Flamengo’s next match?

Flamengo now returns to the field this Thursday (26) to face Lanús, in the second leg of the Recopa Sudamericana. The match, which will decide the continental title, takes place at 9:30 p.m. (Brasília time), at Maracanã.

As tradition dictates, Coluna do Fla will bring all the details about the match between Flamengo and Lanús through YouTube, the website, and social media. However, ESPN (cable channel) and Disney+ (streaming) will broadcast the Recopa match.

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