Flamengo’s injured trio recovery efforts are progressing during the World Cup break, providing head coach Leonardo Jardim a two-week period to fine-tune the squad. The medical and fitness staff are focused on returning Léo Ortiz, Saúl, and Jorginho to full fitness. This break, combined with three scheduled friendly matches, offers a crucial window for player rehabilitation and team preparation before the season resumes.
Jorginho, a defensive midfielder, has rejoined the squad and is training without restrictions. He recovered from a fractured toe on his right foot, which had sidelined him from recent matches. His return to normal training marks a significant step in Flamengo’s efforts to restore key players.
Center-back Léo Ortiz sustained a minor muscle injury, a grade 1 tear in his right thigh, during a match against Coritiba. He cut short his vacation to continue treatment at the training center. While he is not yet training with the ball, his recovery remains on schedule, and he will travel with the squad to Portugal.
Saúl, a Spanish defensive midfielder, underwent surgery on his left ankle. He also opted to shorten his vacation to concentrate on physical preparation. Saúl is currently engaged in specific training to regain his optimal performance level, according to information from ge.
The club has adopted a cautious approach to these recoveries. The initial days of work at Ninho do Urubu, Flamengo’s training facility, have yielded encouraging news regarding the progress of all three players. This careful management aims to prevent re-injury and ensure their long-term availability.
Flamengo’s delegation will depart for Europe on June 28 for further preparation and three high-level friendly matches. The team will face River Plate on July 3, Lausanne on July 8, and Benfica on July 11. The squad is scheduled to return to Brazil on July 12.
Nine players will be absent from the European training period due to World Cup call-ups. These include Alex Sandro, Léo Pereira, Lucas Paquetá, Carrascal, Plata, Arrascaeta, Varela, and De La Cruz. The coaching staff plans to provide these players with a few days of rest upon their return, even if their national teams are eliminated early from the tournament, before reintegrating them into the squad.
The upcoming friendly matches in Portugal will test the recovering players and the rest of the squad, particularly given the absence of numerous international players. The focus will remain on integrating the returning injured players and assessing the team’s readiness for the remainder of the season. Further updates on player fitness are expected as the European tour progresses.