Diniz sets up Vasco for debut with surprises and transfer-listed players | OneFootball

The journey of Vasco da Gama in the 2026 season begins this Thursday (15th), against Maricá, at São Januário. Fans attending the Historical Hill will see a team quite different from the one considered ideal. Following the plan to preserve the main starters (like Vegetti, Coutinho, and Piton) at the start of the year, coach Fernando Diniz has outlined an alternative lineup.

According to the Atenção Vascaínos channel, the starting team will be composed of a mix of young prospects from the youth academy and foreign players who need to prove their worth.

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The probable lineup of Vasco

The team expected to take the field has new faces in all sectors. In goal, Fuzato gets the chance to show security. The defense will be formed by Paulinho, Lyncon, Lucas Freitas, and Leandrinho. The midfield bets on youth and technique with Sforza, JP, Estrella, and the Swiss Maxime Domínguez. In attack, the duo will be Garré and GB.

JP and Estrella train hard for the Giant's debut in the season – Photo: Dikran Sahagian/Vasco

Laboratory and Showcase

This lineup carries various meanings. First, it is a trial by fire for youngsters like Lyncon, JP, Estrella, and GB, whom Diniz has praised and stated he is keenly observing to integrate into the main squad.

Secondly, and perhaps more strategically important, it is a "showcase" opportunity for players on the negotiable list. Leandrinho, who requested to leave, will start at left-back. Sforza, Garré, and Maxime Domínguez, all rumored to leave the club to ease the payroll, will have minutes on the field. A good performance could convince Diniz to keep them or, in financial terms, attract buyers willing to pay what Vasco desires.

It's a game worth three points, but behind the scenes, it's worth millions in planning decisions.

Maxime Domínguez is another to gain chances in the team – Photo: Dikran Sahagian/Vasco

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