Filipe Luís explains why Pedro’s introduction was scrapped at Flamengo 2-1 Botafogo | OneFootball

Filipe Luís explained he abandoned plans to bring on Pedro during Flamengo’s 2-1 win over Botafogo after the striker reported adductor pain.

According to Coluna Do Fla, in the second half Luís called Pedro to come on, the striker then spoke to assistant Rodrigo Caio, took medication and the change was cancelled.

Luís said Pedro felt the adductor could tear if he played, he left the decision with the staff, and the coach chose not to risk him.

Instead, Arrascaeta replaced Bruno Henrique, with Gonzalo Plata used as the number nine.

Luís had started without an orthodox centre-forward, with Bruno Henrique initially leading the line, then Plata and Lucas Paquetá also operating there after the break. The position remains a gap in the squad, and the board have not hidden plans to add competition for Pedro mid-year.

Pedro now faces a race to be fit for Flamengo’s trip to Lanús in Argentina on Thursday 19, the first leg of the Recopa Sudamericana.

Flamengo also play Madureira next weekend in the Campeonato Carioca semi-final, with the FERJ yet to confirm the date, though the match is likely to be on Sunday 22.

Source: Coluna Do Fla