When will Evertton Araújo be back for Flamengo? Find out | OneFootball

Evertton Araújo may have to wait until November to return to regular training with the Flamengo squad. He has been sidelined since September 2, when he suffered an injury to his left thigh during the 2-0 win over Mirassol in the Brazilian Championship.

RTI Esporte Agency has learned that the severity of the injury reduces the chances of a return before the final stretch of the season. His absence has become even more significant at a key moment for Leonardo Jardim’s team.

Flamengo is fighting for the top spot in the Brazilian Championship and is also involved in the knockout stage of the Copa Libertadores, increasing the need for alternatives in the team’s midfield.

Defensive midfielder could miss decisive matches

The projected return in November will keep Evertton Araújo out for an important part of the schedule. In the Brasileirão, Flamengo will have fixtures in the final rounds of the competition before it ends on December 2, against Chapecoense.

One of the most important matches is scheduled for November 22, when Flamengo will face Palmeiras at Nubank Arena in São Paulo. The match could have a direct impact on the title race, depending on the standings by then.

In the Copa Libertadores, the situation is even tighter. If Flamengo eliminates Independiente del Valle in the quarterfinals, the semifinals are scheduled for October 14 and 21. In that scenario, Evertton Araújo is unlikely to take part in that stage.

Lucas Paquetá gains space among the defensive midfielders

The injury has also changed the makeup of Flamengo’s midfield. Without Evertton Araújo, the Portuguese coach has started using Lucas Paquetá more frequently as a second defensive midfielder, offering a different option for the role.

Erick Pulgar and Jorginho remain the main references in the position. The use of the Italian-Brazilian, however, requires physical management. At 34, Jorginho has not been able to maintain a long run of matches and was even rested against Corinthians.

Nicolás De La Cruz and Saúl Ñíguez complete the options

Leonardo Jardim still has Nicolás De La Cruz and Saúl Ñíguez as alternatives to increase rotation in midfield. The Uruguayan was recently called up again, while the Spaniard is still looking for a longer run of games.

The situation means Flamengo must manage the available options while waiting for Evertton Araújo’s recovery. If the expected return in November is maintained, the defensive midfielder could reappear in a potential Libertadores final.

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