Palmeiras rotate entire defence and celebrate clean-sheet start to 2026 | OneFootball

Palmeiras have opened the Campeonato Paulista with three 1-0 wins and a perfect defensive record in 2026, according to Globo.com. The victories came against Portuguesa, Santos and Mirassol.

That run has arrived alongside heavy rotation in defence, with Abel Ferreira using every player available in the back line.

Against Mirassol on Saturday, an untried unit started as debutant left-back Arthur lined up with Gustavo Gómez, Bruno Fuchs and Giay, and he impressed. Known for his attacking traits, Arthur also stood up well without the ball.

At half-time Benedetti replaced Gómez and the organisation held. Goalkeeper Carlos Miguel did not face a difficult save.

Abel said the early solidity comes from all defenders understanding their tasks and from giving everyone opportunities to play. He praised the team for trying to execute better each game.

Despite that form, Palmeiras are not ruling out another centre-back after Micael’s move to the United States, and the club do not plan to spend heavily to find one.

The centre-back pool currently includes Gustavo Gómez, Murilo, Bruno Fuchs and Benedetti. On the flanks, Giay and Khellven compete on the right, with Piquerez and Jegté on the left, and Arthur now in contention.

Further changes are expected at Novorizontino on Tuesday at 20:00 Brasília time as Abel continues to test options.

Source: Globo.com