Rayan legacy as Spinelli set for first Vasco derby against Fluminense | OneFootball

Claudio Spinelli is set for his first Vasco derby against Fluminense on Sunday, taking the number 77 shirt worn by Rayan over the past three years. The Carioca semi-final first leg will be at Estádio Nilton Santos.

Globo.com reports that Fernando Diniz has tested the Argentine with the starters in training. Even if he begins on the bench, he will be an option, as against Volta Redonda when he scored to force penalties.

The 29-year-old likes number seven, wore 77 at his previous club and chose it again once told it was free. He sees following Rayan in that shirt as a responsibility and hopes it brings goals.

Rayan starred in derbies with Fluminense in 2025, scoring one and starting the move for the second in Vasco’s Copa do Brasil semi-final win last year. He is now at Bournemouth in England.

Spinelli was cheered and called for by supporters at São Januário on debut against Bahia, then equalised with his first touch versus Volta Redonda. He has played only 81 minutes so far, 26 in the Bahia game and 55 versus Volta Redonda.

At Del Valle, his derby record was positive, with two goals in four games against LDU, the main recent rival. Vasco’s hierarchy welcomed his signing, citing penalty-box presence and aerial threat after Pablo Vegetti left.

Source: Globo.com