Ortiz shines at Flamengo after Grêmio win, keeps Brazil World Cup hope alive | OneFootball

Léo Ortiz has reasserted himself as a mainstay for Flamengo under Leonardo Jardim, his pass starting Carrascal’s goal in the win over Grêmio. Nicknamed 'camisa 10 da zaga' by Zico, he says confidence is rising and his Brazil World Cup ambition remains.

Ortiz was included in Carlo Ancelotti’s first Brazil squad but did not play. According to Globo.com, the final World Cup list is due on 18 May, with a 55-man provisional list sent to FIFA on Monday, and he hopes to be named alongside Flamengo team-mates.

He says any call-up must be earned on the pitch, so he will stay focused on Flamengo, keep improving and be at his peak if a chance comes.

Jardim’s hands-on approach has aided his return to form. Since the change, Ortiz has started 12 games, come off the bench twice and gone unused in two, scoring against Remo, while taking a major role in build-up and defence.

His form has put him back on European radars before the mid-year window. There has been no official move, but interest is expected, and Flamengo want to keep their key players for the second half.

Flamengo closed on leaders Palmeiras after their draw with Remo, the gap now 34 to 30, and they have a game in hand. Ortiz says it is too early to dwell on rivals, with focus on Thursday’s Copa do Brasil trip to Vitória after a 2-1 first-leg win.

Source: Globo.com