Luiz Fernando relishes place in Corinthians first team and eyes new chances | OneFootball

One of Corinthians Under-20’s standout players this season, Luiz Fernando is hoping to earn new opportunities with the senior squad. After taking part in the 2-0 win over XV de Jaú last Friday (25), in the second leg of the knockout round of the Paulista Championship in the category, the forward spoke about his contact with Fernando Diniz and the coaching staff, commented on his spell without finding the net, and also addressed talks involving his future at Parque São Jorge.

The player started among the first-choice lineup in the match played at Fazendinha. With the result, Timãozinho secured qualification for the Round of 16 of the state tournament after also winning the first meeting, played in the interior of São Paulo, by 3-2.

Photo: Rodrigo Gazzanel / Corinthians

The team’s top scorer in 2026, Luiz Fernando was unable to find the net in the two matches against XV de Jaú. Even so, the forward praised the team’s overall performance and credited the result to the work done during preparation.

“I want to thank God for the team’s performance. We’ve been working very hard, and it turned out really well. We’ve been putting in the work and deserve this goal that we’re gradually achieving,” Luiz began in an interview with Meu Timão.

Luiz Fernando downplays spell without scoring

Even amid an individually standout season, the forward is going through a run without goals. In the first clash against XV de Jaú, Luiz Fernando had the chance to extend the lead from the penalty spot, but was denied by the opposing goalkeeper.

In the return leg, the youngster did put the ball in the net, but the play was ruled out for offside. Asked about the drought, Luiz acknowledged the frustration but said he intends to get back to scoring through daily work.

“We’re sad not to be able to score, especially since I’m the top scorer. But that comes down to training, to the day-to-day work. I’m going to work so that when I get the chance, I can start scoring again,” he added.

Forward comments on experience with senior squad

The performances he has shown in the youth ranks have also brought Luiz Fernando closer to Corinthians’ main squad. The forward has been taking part in activities with the professionals and got an opportunity to be included in one of Fernando Diniz’s squad lists at the end of August.

On that occasion, the youngster was called up for the derby against Santos. Although he is still seeking more space in the senior team, Luiz highlighted the way he was received by the players and coaching staff and thanked the coach for the opportunity to follow the work of the senior side.

“An unbelievable welcome, no words for it. I can only thank Diniz and the entire coaching staff for noticing my work. When I move up, I hope I can help,” Luiz Fernando said.

This growing connection with the senior team comes while the forward continues his routine with the Under-20s. The player remains available for the category and is looking to turn his strong performances at youth level into new opportunities under Fernando Diniz.

Future at Corinthians also comes into focus

Besides his current form on the pitch, Luiz Fernando was also asked about his contract situation. Corinthians are working to keep the forward, but the player preferred not to go into detail about the negotiations and said he is leaving the talks in the hands of his representatives and the club.

“On that, I’ll leave it to my agent and Corinthians to sort out. I’d rather leave it to them and keep working here. I hope everything works out,” he concluded.

While awaiting the next steps regarding his future at Parque São Jorge, Luiz Fernando remains focused on the Under-20 team’s commitments. William Batista’s side is now waiting to find out its opponent in the Round of 16 of the Paulista Championship.

The matchups for the next stage of the state tournament are expected to begin in early October. Until then, the forward remains torn between pursuing the youth team’s next goals and the expectation of new opportunities with Corinthians’ senior squad.

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