Carrascal back on home soil to revive Flamengo role and boost Colombia hopes | OneFootball

Fresh from completing his STJD suspension, Carrascal returns on Colombian soil as Flamengo visit Independiente Medellín on Thursday, a chance to reclaim influence and reset his national-team standing. According to Globo.com, he remained eligible for the Libertadores during his domestic ban and could start.

After the 2-2 draw with Vasco, Leonardo Jardim underlined how central specialist playmakers are to his model, having had none of his three midfielders available that day.

Born in Cartagena, Carrascal should still feel at home in Medellín, where many recognise him from Millonarios and the Colombia set-up.

With Arrascaeta and Paquetá injured, he has an opening to regain prominence. Last year he equalised in the 1-1 with Vasco, supplied two assists in the 2-1 against Corinthians, and struck the 1-0 winner over Argentina’s Racing in the Libertadores semi-final.

He began 2026 well, deciding the main squad’s first outing with a 1-0 against Vasco in the Carioca. A Supercopa do Brasil red card against Corinthians then cost him ground and he has yet to convince Jardim. Filipe Luís previously tipped him as a potential Flamengo idol.

This fixture also matters for his international prospects. He is viewed as likely to make the World Cup but remains a reserve, with hopes he could succeed James Rodríguez, 34, who has only 6 games for Minnesota United. Colombian voices want consistency to match his creativity and added defensive work.

Source: Globo.com