Fluminense get players back, keep youngsters for Maracanã opener | OneFootball

Fluminense released the squad list for this Wednesday’s match (15) at 9:30 p.m. at the Maracanã, for the second round of the Libertadores group stage. It will be the team’s first home match in the 2026 edition.

The main absence is Lucho Acosta. The midfielder suffered an injury to the medial collateral ligament in his left knee during the derby against Flamengo and is expected to be out for up to four weeks. Soteldo, Nonato, and Germán Cano also remain unavailable due to physical issues.

On the other hand, the list brings some new developments. Center-back Igor Rabello is back as an option after a spell out, while youngster Wesley Natã remains among the selected players, keeping his place in the senior squad.

Without Acosta, coach Luis Zubeldía worked on alternatives for the attacking sector. One possibility involves bringing in Ganso, with Savarino playing further forward. Another tested option was using Serna, with the Venezuelan moved into midfield. Leading the attack, there is still uncertainty between John Kennedy and Castillo.

The expectation is that Fluminense will line up with: Fábio; Guga, Jemmes, Freytes and Guilherme Arana; Martinelli, Hércules and Savarino; Serna (or Ganso), Canobbio and John Kennedy (or Castillo).

The match is seen as strategic for the team, which is seeking its first win in the competition and the top spot in the group.

Check out the squad list:

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