Author: Vishwajit Sawant
São Paulo wasted no time in getting back to training at the Barra Funda training center on Friday afternoon, just a day after their Copa Sudamericana win over Tolima. The team immediately shifted their focus to the eagerly awaited derby against Palmeiras, scheduled for Sunday at the Morumbi Stadium in the Brazilian Championship.
While the players who played for many minutes against the Colombian team were dedicated to recovery activities on a closed pitch, the rest of the team took to the field. The training session began with technical drills divided into two groups, followed by a lively scrimmage on a reduced pitch.
Coach Dorival Júnior received some encouraging news during the session, with the return of full-back Wellington Rato to training. After missing the game against Tolima due to flu, Rato’s recovery opens up the possibility of him being included in the team alongside Erison, another player who has overcome injury problems and could play again. Erison, who has been sidelined for the last 15 games due to a fibrotic strain in his left thigh, is now in contention for selection.
Alexandre Pato’s availability, however, remains a question mark. The 33-year-old striker, who recently joined São Paulo for his third spell at the club, has been training without restrictions. Although there is cautious optimism surrounding his inclusion, Dorival emphasized the need for caution.
As for the starting line-up, Dorival is likely to keep most of the team that won against Tolima. Juan could be replaced by Alisson in the offensive line. In addition, the return of Nestor, who played the second half against Tolima, could see him take Michel Araújo’s place in midfield.
In terms of injury updates, there have been no significant changes. Moreira and Igor Vinícius continue to train. Talles Costa, Welington, Galoppo and Ferraresi are undergoing physiotherapy. Defender Walce, who returned from his loan spell at Juventude, is still recovering from a knee injury and is working with the club’s physiotherapists.