With interim boss, Corinthians start prep for Libertadores opener | OneFootball

While waiting for Fernando Diniz, Corinthians returned to training on Monday morning at CT Dr. Joaquim Grava after the loss to Internacional. Under interim coach William Batista, the black-and-white squad began preparations for their Copa Libertadores opener against Platense of Argentina.

The club started the week in search of a new head coach, as Dorival Júnior did not survive the poor run of results and was dismissed. After swift negotiations, Timão reached an agreement with Fernando Diniz on Monday and is awaiting his contract signature before making the announcement. He is expected to lead Tuesday’s training session.

Corinthians will make their Copa Libertadores debut against Platense this Thursday at 9 p.m. (Brasília time) in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

How did training go?

As usual, the players who featured for more than 45 minutes in the match against Inter did recovery work indoors at CT Dr. Joaquim Grava. The other players went out onto the pitch after a strength session in the gym.

After the warm-up, interim coach William Batista led a progression drill involving three-on-two duels and transitions. A small-sided game and an additional crossing and finishing exercise were also carried out.

Absences and returns

For the Libertadores opener, Corinthians will have full-back Matheus Bidu and defensive midfielder Allan available again after they served suspensions in the Brasileirão round.

On the other hand, Alvinegro will still be without Memphis Depay (strain in the anterior muscle of the right thigh), Hugo (right knee surgery), and Gui Negão (strain in the back of the right thigh). Kaio César (perifibrotic inflammation in the hamstring of the right thigh) is also expected to remain unavailable.

Corinthians’ situation

Corinthians are going through a terrible spell and have not won in nine matches, with four defeats and five draws. Timão are therefore seeking a turning point to get back to winning ways in the Libertadores.

Corinthians’ upcoming matches

Platense-ARG vs Corinthians (first round of the Copa Libertadores) Date and time: 04/09 (Thursday), at 9 p.m. (Brasília time) Venue: Estadio Ciudad de Vicente Lopez, in Buenos Aires (Argentina)

Corinthians vs Palmeiras (11th round of the Brasileirão) Date and time: 04/12 (Sunday), at 6:30 p.m. (Brasília time) Venue: Neo Química Arena, in São Paulo (SP)

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