Evertton Araújo takes his chance at Flamengo as Jardim hails Europe-suited profile | OneFootball

Evertton Araújo has seized an opening in Flamengo’s midfield under Leonardo Jardim, amid injuries and suspensions, starting a third straight clássico against Fluminense.

According to Globo.com, Jardim has quickly placed faith in the 23-year-old. He has made five appearances under the coach, starting four, and played 90 minutes in the Libertadores opener against Cusco and in the Fluminense derby, ranking among the most accurate passers.

Jardim said he told Evertton chances would come and stressed ball security and forward intent. He highlighted the midfielder’s physical capacity, ball carrying, duels, consistency and work ethic, and added he is satisfied with his progress.

That athletic profile has nudged him ahead of De la Cruz, whose fitness issues have checked his rhythm, though the Uruguayan has featured in the last five games and started one.

Pulgar suffered a right shoulder acromioclavicular injury in the loss to Red Bull Bragantino. The initial estimate was about 10 days, so he could face Independiente Medellín on Thursday if pain free.

Jorginho sustained a left calf injury in the win over Santos. He is likely to miss the next two games and may return against Vitória on 22 April in the Copa do Brasil first leg of the fifth round.

There is scope for Evertton to keep earning minutes, with his discipline in training noted as he learns from senior team-mates. He drew enquiries in the first window but Flamengo did not open talks. A Volta Redonda product, he joined permanently after a standout 2022 Copinha and is contracted until December 2028.

Source: Globo.com