Michael did not leave the bench in the duel between Flamengo and Corinthians, at Neo Química Arena
Flamengo eliminated Corinthians and secured a place in the final of the Copa do Brasil after a goalless draw at Neo Química Arena. After the match, coach Filipe Luís spoke about Michael’s situation. The player, who was expected to play during the game, ended up just being on the bench.
— Michael is extremely important, he is a decisive player. He has a goal, one on one, dribbling, he has everything a winger should have, I played with him, I love him. He had a very serious injury and is getting back into top shape. Michael was a sure trade. However, with a change we made in the first half, and the second later with Nico’s injury, it left me with just one stop –said Filipe Luís, before completing:
— I had to hold on as much as possible in case someone couldn’t stand it or had an injury. I had to endure the last exchange until the end (…) Michael didn’t enter for a tactical reason. But he is a player who will have minutes in practically every game. I want to have the best version of him as quickly as possible. I’m doing everything for him and everyone –he concluded.
MICHAEL’S INJURY
Michael suffered an injury precisely in a game valid for the Copa do Brasil, on August 28th. Thus, ‘Robozinho’ had to leave the field loaded after injuring the posterior muscle of his right thigh in a duel with Bahia, at Arena Fonte Nova. Now, the striker is trying to regain his game rhythm to help Flamengo.
FLAMENGO IN THE FINAL
After drawing the return duel with Corinthians, the Flemish confirmed classification for the grand final of the Copa do Brasil. This way, the confrontation will be in two matches, like the previous knockout stages. The games against Atlético-MG will be held on the 3rd and 10th of November. Finally, the order of field command will be defined on Thursday (24), in a draw at the CBF headquarters.
WHAT NOW, FLAMENGO?
After qualifying for the Copa do Brasil, Flamengo will have a week without games before returning to the field next Saturday (26), against Youthat Maracanã. Therefore, Rubro-Negro needs to win to guarantee its permanence in the G-4 of the Brasileirão.
