Flamengo: five players seeking bigger roles after uneven 2025 | OneFootball

Flamengo enjoyed an almost flawless 2025, yet several squad members struggled to keep pace. According to Globo.com, five players now face a pivotal push to earn bigger roles in 2026 under Filipe Luís.

De La Cruz endured repeated fitness issues and unwanted exposure after a leaked club doctor message, prompting strict load management. He had a procedure in Uruguay before pre-season, then impressed in the Intercontinental Cup final alongside Saúl, replacing Pulgar and Jorginho, both on bookings. Despite enquiries, he remains in the club’s 2026 plans and could be important in rotation.

Samuel Lino, the most expensive signing in the club’s history at R$ 143 million, scored the goal that sealed the Brazilian title, but his output fell short. After a bright start he dipped, finishing the year competing for a starting spot. A first full holiday in 18 months offers a reset as he looks to establish himself.

Emerson Royal, brought in to replace Wesley, has not yet nailed down the right-back role. With Varela excelling, he ended 2025 as back-up and, like Lino, finally enjoyed a proper break.

Ayrton Lucas won out over Viña as immediate cover at left-back, and the club are open to negotiating the Uruguayan after River Plate made an enquiry. Nearing four years at Flamengo, Ayrton is pushing to regain prominence.

Wallace Yan was a revelation at the Club World Cup in the United States, then saw his momentum stall amid controversy and a missed penalty in the Copa do Brasil exit to Atlético-MG. The forward could reclaim ground after the break in the new campaign.

Source: Globo.com