Lyanco emotional on return to the pitch, hails Atlético win at Arena MRV | OneFootball

Atlético's 1-0 victory over São Paulo last Wednesday (18th) at Arena MRV had a special significance beyond the three points. The match marked the return of defender Lyanco to the field after a long period away due to injury.

The defender returned to play after rupturing his Achilles tendon in October 2025, when he was a starter in the match against Sport, during the 14th round of the Brazilian Championship. Since then, Lyanco underwent a long recovery process until he regained the ideal conditions to return to the field.

Visibly moved, the defender spoke about the moment he experienced when returning in the black and white jersey: “I was very emotional when I entered the field, a movie played in my head. Thank God I managed to come back, I'm well, I hope to continue now, with a sequence of games, gaining more minutes and being able to return to how I was before”, he highlighted.

The Atlético triumph, secured with a goal by Ivan Román at 18 minutes into the second half, took Galo to 8 points on the table, temporarily occupying the 11th position. It was the second victory for the team led by Eduardo Domínguez in the Brasileirão, both achieved at home.

Lyanco also commented on the anxiety during the recovery period and the constant desire to return to play.

Besides the emotion of returning, the defender highlighted the strong competition in Atlético's defensive system and valued the performance of his teammates: “But I think this ‘headache’ he will have. Today, for example, Ivan took his opportunity very well, Alonso played a very good game. I think this game was when our defensive line best withstood the opponent's attack. We still have Vitor Hugo who is out, Ruan who was suspended, and now I'm coming back... I think it will be a good fight, always for the benefit of Galo. Whoever is chosen to play will represent very well”, he stated.

The defender also emphasized the importance of the entire squad being prepared throughout the competition: “There are many games in the Brazilian Championship, everyone needs to be ready, not just in defense, but in all positions. I want to come back, to be able to play as I did before the injury”, he added.

Finally, Lyanco reinforced his affection for the club and his motivation to regain his place:

Atlético returns to the field next Saturday (21st), when they face Fluminense at 6:30 PM at Maracanã Stadium, in another challenge for the Brazilian Championship.

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