Atlético may play Ivan Román in derby vs Cruzeiro: "We're assessing"

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·14 de octubre de 2025

Atlético may play Ivan Román in derby vs Cruzeiro: "We're assessing"

Defender Ivan Román could be a surprise inclusion in Atlético’s lineup for the derby against Cruzeiro next Wednesday (15th), at 9:30 PM, at Arena MRV, for the 28th round of the Brazilian Championship. The Chilean, who according to the Chilean federation has a fracture in his left hand, is still undergoing medical evaluation and his presence has not yet been confirmed.

Last Wednesday (8th), the defender was cut from the national team, which was set to play a friendly during this FIFA Date. When announcing the injury, La Roja stated that the player would need to undergo surgery. Atlético, however, remains cautious and is considering the possibility of the athlete playing, even with the issue.

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In an interview, football director Victor Bagy commented on the defender’s situation and did not rule out using the player in the derby:

We know Ivan is an important player, with great potential, and he has already shown his qualities and competence whenever called upon. But this is a matter we have left more in the hands of the medical staff. He is being evaluated to see if there is a possibility. The fact is, he has something in his hand that bothers him and causes pain. But in an important moment, like a derby, I think risks and sacrifices are points to be considered. We are evaluating, and given the need, we cannot rule out the possibility of him playing. But as I said, it is a medical decision that we respect. We are trying to speed up the process so he can be fit.

The possible use of Ivan Román gains importance given the scenario of many absences in the defensive sector. Coach Jorge Sampaoli will not have Lyanco (Achilles tendon injury), Júnior Alonso (called up by the Paraguayan national team), and Vitor Hugo (suspended). As a result, Román, even with a hand injury, appears as one of the few options for the defense.

If the Chilean is not fit to play, the tendency is that young Vitão, only 17 years old, who will be named in the squad again, could even make his debut for the professional team. The youngster is one of the standouts in Galinho’s campaign in the Under-17 Brazilian Championship and has already been training with the main squad.

Atlético is looking to bounce back this season, and the derby against Cruzeiro, at home, will be decisive for Sampaoli’s team. To achieve this, Galo will need to overcome the squad’s limitations and the numerous physical problems that have affected the group in recent weeks.

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