Flamengo faces injury crisis ahead of Chapecoense clash

Flamengo prepares to travel to Chapecó for the Serie A match against Chapecoense on 22 July 2026. Coach Leonardo Jardim warned that the squad is dealing with a serious injury problem, with up to six key players doubtful. Arrascaeta, Lucas Paquetá and Luiz Araújo remain out after setbacks during the World Cup, while Léo Ortiz is in the final stages of recovery. Nicolás De la Cruz and Gonzalo Plata will be assessed before the trip. Jardim said, “In Europe we do a one‑month pre‑season, but here players have been without training for months – that is a big challenge.” Flamengo sit fifth in the league, two points behind Corinthians for a top‑four place, making the player‑selection decision critical. The final squad list will be set after the last training session before the game.