Corinthians begin Libertadores build-up under interim after Dorival Júnior exit | OneFootball

Corinthians have begun preparations for their Libertadores group-stage debut under interim coach William Batista. They visit Platense in Buenos Aires on Thursday at 21:00, with a nine-match winless run still in play.

According to Meu Timao, Monday’s work at CT Joaquim Grava was the first since Dorival Júnior was dismissed after the 1-0 home defeat to Internacional in the Brasileirão.

Players who logged more than 45 minutes against Internacional completed indoor recovery, while the rest did strength work before heading to the pitch. After the warm-up, drills focused on progression, three against two transitions, small-sided games and a crossing and finishing block.

Corinthians have accelerated talks to appoint a replacement for Dorival before the opener. The club have a verbal agreement with Fernando Diniz, out since leaving Vasco da Gama in February, and he is expected to sign until the end of the season.

The club have submitted a 50-man list for the first phase. Forwards Memphis Depay, Gui Negão and Kaio César remain under medical care and are not expected to travel to Argentina.

The squad will train again on Tuesday morning, after strong remonstrations from organised supporters outside CT Joaquim Grava. Group E also includes Peñarol of Uruguay and Independiente Santa Fe of Colombia.

Source: Meu Timao