Cruzeiro faces defensive shortages ahead of Palmeiras match

Cruzeiro is preparing for a significant upcoming match against Palmeiras on November 18 at the Mineirão following the FIFA international break. The team is currently in third place in the Campeonato Brasileiro.

Head coach Artur Jorge faces several defensive challenges. Jonathan Jesus has been called up to the Brazilian national team, while Fabrício Bruno is dealing with lower back pain. Additionally, João Marcelo has suffered a right knee injury that is expected to keep him out of competition through 2026.

To address these absences, Artur Jorge has promoted two youth players, Vitor Hugo Milita and Gustavo Alves, to training. Milita is a highly regarded prospect from the Under-20 squad, while Alves was recently acquired from Al-Ahli.