Jardim makes bold changes for Flamengo’s Libertadores opener, starting XI revealed | OneFootball

Leonardo Jardim has reshaped Flamengo’s starting side for their Libertadores opener away to Cusco on Wednesday, according to Globo.com.

The headline changes are the recalls of Bruno Henrique, Plata, Danilo, De la Cruz and Emerson Royal.

There had been expectation of tweaks given injuries to Pulgar, Jorginho and Alex Sandro. Even so, he also left out Varela, Léo Ortiz, Arrascaeta, Pedro and Samuel Lino, who had started recently.

Line-up: Rossi, Emerson Royal, Danilo, Léo Pereira, Ayrton Lucas, Evertton, De la Cruz, Paquetá, Carrascal, Plata and Bruno Henrique.

Plata is a surprise starter after recent turbulence off the pitch. Jardim had publicly criticised his behaviour, and the winger posted indirect messages towards the club while on Ecuador duty.

Everton Cebolinha is unavailable with a rib fracture, while Saúl is out following surgery on his left heel.

The trip is seen as a challenge due to the 3,350m altitude in Cusco, which will test the squad physically. At the weekend Flamengo face Fluminense in the Brasileirão, so they will want as many players available for the clássico.

Source: Globo.com