Palmeiras team news, Paulinho to miss Vitória trip as Flaco López heads list of returns | OneFootball

Palmeiras have completed preparations for Wednesday's 21st-round visit to Vitória, and Paulinho will not be included. Flaco López is back among five changes to the squad.

According to Globo.com, the forward suffered a left ankle sprain against Atlético-MG, unrelated to his previous right-leg surgery, and the issue has been deemed mild and a normal match incident. Kick-off is 21:30 Brasília time at Barradão.

It was his first start of the year and his longest stint in a high-intensity game. He will be assessed daily, and a return could come this weekend against Fortaleza in the Copa do Brasil last-16 first leg. He has addressed the situation on social media.

Barboza, Khellven, Sosa and Allan return from suspension, while López is available after playing at the World Cup for Argentina. He trained fully on Tuesday at the Academia de Futebol and may start in Paulinho's absence.

A possible Palmeiras XI: Carlos Miguel, Murilo, Gustavo Gómez, Barboza, Khellven, Marlon Freitas, Andreas Pereira, Piquerez, Arias, Mauricio, Flaco López.

Despite Sunday's defeat, Palmeiras lead the league on 44 points, six clear of second-placed Flamengo, who have a game in hand.

Source: Globo.com