Flamengo’s title push: Pedro leads, Royal awaits debut | OneFootball

Flamengo approach the 17th round of the Brasileirão locked in a tight title chase, just a point behind leaders Cruzeiro, with a match in hand. Sunday night’s meeting at the Maracanã against Atlético Mineiro presents Filipe Luís’ squad with both an opportunity and some challenges, as reported by UOL.

The Rubro-Negro arrive buoyed by back-to-back league victories, including an impressive comeback away to Bragantino. Pedro’s recent resurgence has been central to this run. According to Globo, the striker is setting new high-intensity running records post-injury and has re-established himself as the main reference up front, with no imminent threat of a transfer exit. He is set to lead the line again against Atlético, supported by Arrascaeta in midfield and Bruno Henrique and Luiz Araújo on the flanks.

Squad depth remains a recurring issue for Flamengo. Allan, rested last match for load management, returns to the midfield and Gonzalo Plata is available again after overcoming a thigh problem. The right-back position is undergoing transformation following Wesley’s recent move to Roma. Emerson Royal, Flamengo’s new €9 million signing from AC Milan, has arrived in Rio but is not yet listed in the match squad. His unveiling is expected ahead of kick-off, but it’s likely Guillermo Varela gets the nod at right-back.

Injuries continue to shape team selection. Filipe Luís is without Pulgar, Alex Sandro, Ayrton Lucas, Michael, and Danilo, all still under medical care. De la Cruz is also absent, having been granted leave to visit family in Uruguay after recent controversy about his fitness.

Atlético Mineiro arrive ninth in the table, having struggled for league consistency and suffering recent losses to Bahia and Palmeiras. They have, however, just edged past Atlético Bucaramanga on penalties to reach the Copa Sudamericana last sixteen. Coach Cuca will be without suspended defender Lyanco and forward Dudu, but Alan Franco returns after continental suspension and should anchor the midfield.

Given the absences and new arrivals, Flamengo are expected to line up with Rossi in goal behind a back four of Varela, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, and Viña. Allan joins Jorginho and Arrascaeta in midfield, with the attacking trident of Luiz Araújo, Pedro, and (potentially from the bench) Plata or Bruno Henrique. Atlético’s expected frontline features Hulk and Rony, with Gustavo Scarpa providing the creative spark.

While thoughts will quickly turn to the rematch in the Copa do Brasil knockout rounds later in the week, Flamengo’s focus is firmly on reclaiming top spot in the league with a win. The onus will be on their attacking trio and resilient midfield to dictate the tempo against an Atlético side still seeking consistent form.

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