Grêmio reshape squad with 20 exits as Luís Castro backs academy pathway | OneFootball

Grêmio agreed to end midfielder Cuéllar's contract on Wednesday, before the Brasileirão win over Atlético-MG at the Arena. The Colombian is the 20th player to leave since the new board took charge at the end of last year.

According to Globo.com, Cristaldo is close to leaving, with talks ongoing over a contract termination.

The revamp has included releases, sales, loans and expiries, plus arrivals, but above all more chances for academy players under head coach Luís Castro. Since taking over, he has reviewed the squad and its balance.

He described the shift as deep and the product of joint analysis rather than blame of those departing. He said the aim was to open room for homegrown players, noting that a 34-man group leaves them little space and that developing footballers need minutes.

Early in the Gauchão he handed debuts to Tiaguinho, Jefinho and Roger despite using the first team from round one. Gabriel Mec first appeared in 2025 and has seen more action this year.

The exit door is not yet closed as the rebuild continues.

Source: Globo.com