Plata shines again at Arena MRV as Jardim’s faith rewarded after attitude shift at Flamengo | OneFootball

It took time, but Plata has turned his Flamengo spell around, reclaiming a starting berth and shining again at Arena MRV.

The Ecuadorian lit up a 4-0 win in the 13th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro, coupling a brilliant goal with an authoritative display at Atlético-MG’s home. Jardim, who previously worked with him at Sporting, said his early integration fell short but that once work and attitude aligned his talent showed, and he hailed the winger’s goal and defensive support for Varela that helped contain Atlético’s wide threats.

Before the recent FIFA window, Jardim dropped him for failing to align with the staff. A favourite of Filipe Luís, his behaviour irritated the new coaches and team-mates, and a near public rebuke plus a wish to leave marked the low point before he adapted. He resolved matters, used his national-team stint well, and has not missed a match since.

With his attitude now closer to the manager’s demands, he has cemented a place in the side, while Jardim rotates across competitions and leans on an ideal XI in the league.

Off the pitch, Plata has become more discreet and aligned with expectations. The board still see him as an important asset and do not rule out a sale in the next window, especially with World Cup exposure, though his growing importance means any decision may now be taken more cautiously.

Source: Globo.com