Leonardo Jardim explains Anthony Valencia omission for Flamengo v Bragantino | OneFootball

Leonardo Jardim left Anthony Valencia out of Flamengo’s squad for the 2-1 win over Red Bull Bragantino at the Maracanã, then outlined a careful plan to integrate the forward.

According to Coluna Do Fla, the head coach said Valencia and Freitas are talented youngsters he trusts, but he is introducing them gradually. He pointed to the need to defend space during a high-pressure spell and said he would not field two young players at once.

He added that he believes both will develop and help the team this season. Jardim also praised Saúl, noting an excellent display and improved fitness after putting aside an injury that had been troubling him in the second half of the year.

Valencia joined Flamengo in the last transfer window and has had limited minutes. His only outing so far was a late cameo in the league win over Remo in Belém.

Despite the lack of club action, Valencia has been called up by Ecuador for the current international window, alongside team-mate Gonzalo Plata.

While Valencia links up with Ecuador, Flamengo will use the FIFA break to rest and prepare for the run-in. Their next match is on eight October against Santos at Vila Belmiro, 19:30 Brasília time, in the Brasileirão.

Source: Coluna Do Fla

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”