Luís Castro weighing Grêmio midfield options after Monsalve injury | OneFootball

Monsalve’s injury has reopened Grêmio’s midfield debate, delaying his bid for a starting role and leaving the position unsettled for the season’s start.

According to Globo.com, the hierarchy is concerned and exploring the market, but for now the staff will rely on in-house options from seniors to academy graduates.

Cristaldo appears the most logical pick. The Argentine shared duties with Monsalve at times but lost ground last season. Under the new staff he could get another look at the Gauchão’s start.

Riquelme is another route. The youngster has featured for the first team and is fit again after an injury late last season.

Luís Castro also has hybrid choices. Edenilson and attacking midfielder Willian can play centrally, as can Tetê, who is close to being announced for 2026.

The situation could hasten Jefinho’s step up. An academy standout, he is among those promoted for the Gauchão and recently renewed until 2027 with an 80 million euros clause, R$ 500 million at the current rate.

Aged 19, he is highly rated despite setbacks. He fractured his jaw in late 2023 in a training match against Santa Cruz-RS, missing the Copa São Paulo, then ruptured the left ACL in May 2024 against Atlético-MG in the Brasileirão Sub-20. Complications required another procedure in 2025.

He only returned in November 2025 in the Copa Sul Sub-20. People close to him say he stands out for mobility and build-up play, moving through different zones.

Source: Globo.com