Heading for the Libertadores? Saúl has return date for Flamengo | OneFootball

Saúl last took the field in the match between Flamengo and PSG (FRA), in December

Coach Leonardo Jardim received good news with the rest of the season in mind. That is because Saúl Ñíguez has made further progress in his recovery from heel surgery and is close to being cleared for physical training. Thus, the Spaniard is expected to return to the field for Mengão.

In the final stretch of physiotherapy, Saúl will be handed over to Flamengo’s fitness staff in April. So, depending on his progress at that stage, the player could be cleared by the second week to train with the squad. As a result, the Spaniard will be available to Leonardo Jardim for Fla’s upcoming matches.

Why did Saúl undergo surgery?

Saúl started dealing with heel pain in the final stretch of the 2025 season. However, the midfielder chose conservative treatment so he could play in the decisive Libertadores and Brasileirão matches.

Therefore, at the end of the season, Saúl spoke with Flamengo’s Medical Department, and both sides decided that heel surgery was the best option. The player then underwent the procedure in Spain and, shortly afterward, began treatment to return to the pitch.

What are Saúl’s numbers at Flamengo?

Saúl joined Flamengo in July 2025 on a free transfer, after terminating his contract with Atlético de Madrid (ESP). In total, the midfielder played 24 matches wearing the red-and-black shirt, recording two assists. In addition, the Spaniard was part of the squad that won the Brasileirão and the Libertadores.

When does Flamengo make its Libertadores debut?

It is worth noting that Flamengo will make its 2026 Libertadores debut against Cusco (PER) on April 8. In other words, the expectation is that Saúl will be available to Mengão from the second round of the continental tournament onward.

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