Khellven shining at Palmeiras, Giay may get chance vs River Plate | OneFootball

After suffering a foot injury in the 2-1 victory over River Plate last Wednesday (17th) away from home, right-back Khellven is doubtful for Palmeiras in the second leg of the Libertadores quarterfinals this Wednesday (24th) at Allianz Parque. The player is following a schedule monitored by the club’s Health and Performance Center. If he is not fit to play, the Argentine Giay will take over as the starting right-back.

New Era

Verdão is undergoing a year of restructuring, and the right-back position is no exception. After almost five years of alternating between nationally established names like Marcos Rocha and Mayke, the board invested in Giay, still in 2024, and in Khellven, already for 2025.

The experienced Marcos Rocha was released to strengthen Grêmio, where he has already become a starter and captain, while Mayke, struggling with injuries, moved to Santos.

Same Ideas

The characteristics, however, have been relatively maintained. While the former number 2 was used almost as a third center-back, especially in recent seasons, with the role of helping with ball distribution and freeing Piquerez to attack on the other side, Giay fulfills the same function with similar traits, but with more physical vigor and youth. The former number 12, on the other hand, played more as a wing-back—and often as a winger—receiving coverage so he could focus more on attacking than defending. Khellven has not only taken the same number but also possesses the same qualities on the field.

Both are in good technical form and are highly regarded by the fans. If he is fit, Khellven should be chosen as the starter, but Giay is ready to play and has the trust of the coaching staff.

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