Gauchão verdict: who earned roles and how Grêmio come out of the title win | OneFootball

Grêmio ended the Campeonato Gaúcho with the trophy and a clear set of takeaways for the rest of the season. Luís Castro’s tweaks gave the side a fresh edge, particularly across the two Gre-Nais in the final. The squad finished the competition 95% available, only João Pedro and Villasanti injured, reflecting a drive to keep options open for the coach.

According to Globo.com, Castro flagged from the early rounds that the state championship would double as a testing ground usually reserved for pre-season friendlies. Those conclusions now shape his choices.

The new XI crystallised after the 25 February Brasileirão win over Atlético-MG. Gustavo Martins, 23, and Viery, 21, became the starting centre-backs, Pavon operated at full-back and Enamorado held the right wing. In midfield, Gabriel Mec featured before Monsalve was preferred for the derbies.

That setup has delivered the most so far and brought results, although both Atlético-MG and Inter had players sent off in those matches. A core trio emerged on a high and are undisputed starters for now, while defenders Balbuena and Wagner Leonardo have been left on the bench.

The Ghanaian-Belgian attacker has asserted himself as a higher-quality outlet in Grêmio’s attack, showing flair such as the backheel in the Arena win that irritated Internacional.

The Gauchão also clarified roles. Despite their leadership status, Kannemann and Marcos Rocha have featured little. The centre-back came on in the second leg of the final after Wagner Leonardo’s red card, only his second match of the year, while the 37-year-old right-back has seven outings in 2026 but has not played since 7 February.

Source: Globo.com