Saúl reveals when he expects to play for Flamengo again in 2026 | OneFootball

When Should Saúl Return to Wearing Flamengo's Jersey?

Saúl Ñíguez is the major absence for Flamengo at the start of this season. This is because, in January, the Spaniard underwent surgery on his left heel and is currently recovering with the Medical Department. Despite this, the midfielder is planning an early return to Mengão.

— I am feeling good after the surgery. It's been five days since I left the crutches. We are taking it step by step with the boot. Initially, I will be with the boot for four more weeks, but after talking with the doctors, I believe I will be able to return to the field earlier and help the team — he said, before concluding:

— I am very eager to help and be with them. I feel good, the recovery is going well, and I am in great hands. Everyone is working day and night to get me back. It's important to be here with the team, available or not. I am an asset of Flamengo. Being here is an obligation for me — concluded Saúl.

Why Did Saúl Undergo Surgery?

Saúl began experiencing heel pain towards the end of the 2025 season. However, the midfielder opted for conservative treatment to be able to play in the decisive matches of the Libertadores and the Brasileirão.

Thus, at the end of the season, Saúl consulted with Flamengo's Medical Department, and they decided to proceed with surgery on the heel. The athlete underwent the procedure in Spain and has already started treatment to return to the field.

What Are Saúl's Stats at Flamengo?

Saúl joined Flamengo in July 2025, at no cost, after terminating his contract with Atlético de Madrid (ESP). In total, the midfielder played 24 matches wearing the red-and-black jersey, providing two assists. Additionally, the Spaniard contributed to the titles of the Brasileirão and the Libertadores.

What Is Flamengo's Next Match?

Meanwhile, Flamengo returns to the field this Saturday (07) to face Sampaio Corrêa, for the sixth round of the Campeonato Carioca. Thus, the match kicks off at 9 PM (Brasília time), at Maracanã. It is worth noting that the Red-and-Black is in a delicate situation in the State Championship.

As tradition dictates, Coluna do Fla will bring all the details about the match between Flamengo and Sampaio Corrêa, through YouTube, the website, and social media. However, SporTV (closed channel) and Premiere (pay-per-view) will broadcast the Carioca match.

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