Dorival Júnior hails Tchoca’s Corinthians return after Italy trip | OneFootball

Dorival Júnior praised João Pedro Tchoca’s comeback for Corinthians, the centre-back impressing as a starter against Capivariano following his aborted Torino switch.

According to Meu Timao, the proposed loan collapsed despite initial medical approval at Torino, as further checks raised concern over a bone condition described as arthritis, prompting the Italian club to withdraw.

Dorival said he thought Tchoca coped well despite time without training, playing with confidence and familiarity with their system. He added they had imagined he might feel the lay-off but saw no issues, and they now hope for a very favourable return.

Tchoca’s progress has been interrupted by injuries. In 2019 he sustained knee cartilage damage that sidelined him for one year and four months. In 2023 he suffered an ankle injury and was cut from Brazil Under-20.

The loan would have earned Corinthians one and a half million euros, about R$ nine and a half million, and could have reached seven million euros if a sale followed. After the collapse, the player’s representatives criticised Torino’s conduct and suggested Corinthians take the case to FIFA.

Tchoca will be available for the derby against Palmeiras at Neo Química Arena on Sunday at 20:30.

Source: Meu Timao