Tchoca back in Corinthians XI after two months, praised by Dorival

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Central do Timão

·11 de septiembre de 2025

Tchoca back in Corinthians XI after two months, praised by Dorival

By Vinícios Cotrim | Central do Timão Editorial Team

Due to a virus, André Ramalho did not take the field, giving João Pedro Tchoca the opportunity to start in Corinthians' victory over Athletico-PR. In the press conference, coach Dorival Júnior spoke about the changes in the lineup and praised the squad's preparation for these adjustments.

“Regarding being the first, second, third, neither a starter nor a substitute. For me, they are all players who deserve the same respect, consideration, care, and attention. At any moment, any one of them could be playing, even if they haven't been coming off a run of games. I always warn about this,” the coach began.

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Since arriving at Corinthians, Dorival Júnior has dealt with several absences, whether due to injuries or suspensions, with the attack being the main area affected. To face CAP, the coaching staff did not have Raniele available and decided to play with three defenders. As a result, Tchoca started for the first time since July 26, in the Brasileirão.

“I think few teams in Brazilian football have played with almost their entire lineup changed from one match to the next. And we have done that in many rounds. This is a sign that I believe in the team I am leading, as long as I feel these players are trained and prepared, that I trust and perceive this reciprocity. That way, they will inevitably have an opportunity to be on the field.” he commented.

“So, they should prepare themselves more and better every day, so that they might suddenly get a chance to play. I believe that, maybe even yesterday, Tchoca didn't believe he could start this match. And when he was informed, he gave a great response, because he was very well prepared. He had been working with great intensity, and that is fundamental and important for any athlete,” the coach concluded.

Corinthians' next match will be on Saturday, the 13th, against Fluminense. After qualifying in the Copa do Brasil, Timão will focus entirely on the Brasileirão until the end of the competition. The ball rolls at Maracanã, starting at 9 p.m. (Brasília time).

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