Author: Vishwajit Sawant
In a dynamic training session at the Ninho do Urubu on Friday, Flamengo coach Jorge Sampaoli revealed some intriguing information ahead of the much-anticipated derby against Botafogo. The Argentine maestro experimented with line-ups, keeping fans and pundits in doubt about his starting team.
Sampaoli divided the squad into two groups, with the top team featuring Rossi in goal and a formidable defensive trio made up of Fabrício Bruno, Erick Pulgar and Léo Pereira. The midfield featured emerging talents Matheuzinho and Igor Jesus, alongside established stars Allan, Everton Ribeiro and Ayrton Lucas. The attacking duo was made up of Bruno Henrique and Pedro, a combination that aroused the enthusiasm of the fans.
Erick Pulgar’s deployment as a defensive midfielder during the training session caught the eye, a role he played earlier in his career. Everton Cebolinha also featured, coming on in place of Bruno Henrique at the end of the session.
Interestingly, Sampaoli’s fluid approach to team selection means that players from both groups can merge into the final line-up. This flexibility keeps Botafogo on their toes ahead of the derby.
Although Sampaoli’s line-up decisions remain a closely guarded secret, the core of the first team looks strong and cohesive, which gives Flamengo optimism ahead of Saturday’s clash with Botafogo at the Estadio Nilton Santos. Flamengo are currently in fourth place on 36 points. Botafogo are top with 51 points.