Saúl skips rest for new sport, eyes 'fresh start' at Flamengo after Copa | OneFootball

Flamengo midfielder shared footage of footvolley training sessions

Even during the vacation period and the break for the World Cup, midfielder Saúl Ñíguez remains focused on his physical preparation. Unlike most Flamengo players, who are taking advantage of the break to travel, the Spaniard has chosen, for now, to stay in Rio de Janeiro.

On social media, the player shared footage of footvolley training sessions. That is because the number 8 is above all looking to regain full fitness and overcome the obstacles he faced at the start of 2026.

WHAT OBSTACLES DID SAÚL FACE AFTER ARRIVING AT FLAMENGO?

After the end of last season, Saúl underwent surgery on his left ankle. The procedure kept the midfielder off the pitch until April 2026. After returning, the player took part in nine matches, totaling just 237 minutes on the field, which amounts to an average of approximately 26 minutes per game.

HOW HAS SAÚL PERFORMED AT FLAMENGO?

The player himself admits that he has not yet reached his best technical level in the red-and-black shirt. Since arriving at Flamengo last year, Saúl Ñíguez has made 34 official appearances, with three assists and no goals so far. The Spaniard is now working to improve those numbers and take on a bigger role under Leonardo Jardim once the team resumes activities.

WHEN DOES THE RED-AND-BLACK SQUAD RETURN TO TRAINING?

The Flamengo coaching staff has scheduled the squad’s official return for June 19. From that date onward, the group will begin preparations for the rest of the season, which includes the decisive stages of the Libertadores and the continuation of the Brasileirão.

The fans’ expectation is that, after the rest period and health care, Saúl Ñíguez will be able to put together a run of games. That way, he can recover the form that made him stand out in European football.

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