Plata loses place under Jardim at Flamengo, future uncertain after the World Cup | OneFootball

Plata has fallen down the pecking order at Flamengo under Leonardo Jardim, used only late in two of the four matches and omitted from the squad to face Corinthians on Sunday by the coach’s decision. His post-World Cup future is uncertain.

According to Globo.com, the Ecuadorian has 82 appearances, eight goals and 10 assists since joining in the second half of 2024. His best run came under Filipe Luís, playing on the right, centrally and as a false nine, and he last scored in the 2-1 defeat at São Paulo.

As a central reference he drew heavy criticism for his finishing, notably in the 3-2 Recopa loss to Lanús at the Maracanã. Competition has intensified with Paquetá’s arrival and Carrascal’s form, while Jardim’s preference for wingers moving inside suits others more. Elsewhere, established starters Arrascaeta and Pedro, who has cemented his place under the new coach, restrict his minutes.

Plata is contracted until August 2029, and the current picture could shape the next window if offers arrive. Flamengo would not oppose a sale depending on price, having paid about nine million dollars, roughly R$52 million then, for 100% of his rights in 2024. At 25, he is seen as having an overseas market.

His value could rise with a good World Cup. He remains highly regarded by Ecuador, earning a call-up last Friday for friendlies against Morocco and the Netherlands, and is a certain pick for Sebastián Beccacece. Reports in Ecuador linked West Ham during the Paquetá talks, but Flamengo received no offer, and 30% of any profit above the purchase price would go to Al-Sadd under a 2024 clause.

Source: Globo.com