Anthony Valencia to be named in Flamengo squad and could debut against Mirassol | OneFootball

Anthony Valencia will be named in Flamengo’s squad to face Mirassol on Wednesday and could make his debut.

The 23-year-old forward arrived in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday night. According to Coluna Do Fla, the club is working to register the Ecuadorian quickly so head coach Leonardo Jardim can include him, although any minutes would be his call.

Valencia has been signed to fill the vacancy left by Gonzalo Plata, who joined Dynamo Moscow for 12 million euros. Flamengo view the Ecuadorian as a direct replacement.

He has been with Royal Antwerp since 2022, making 84 appearances and scoring 13 goals. The winger now takes on the challenge of Brazilian football.

He won the Belgian league, Cup and Super Cup with Antwerp, adding continental pedigree to his CV. A product of Independiente del Valle, he also lifted the Under-20 Libertadores.

Supporters await his official presentation as Flamengo enter a key phase of the season. Wednesday’s game is a match in hand, and victory would close the gap to leaders Palmeiras, though the staff are keen to avoid piling pressure on the new arrival.

The club is expected to confirm contractual details shortly. Valencia’s inclusion offers Jardim another attacking option during a congested schedule.

Source: Coluna Do Fla

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