Dorival considers Félix, but eyes other full-back options at Corinthians | OneFootball

Defender Félix Torres is not expected to start for Corinthians in the classic match against Palmeiras this Sunday. Coach Dorival Júnior has not made a final decision, but he prefers other options and may bench the Ecuadorian, who has been criticized by the black and white fans.

Dorival is likely to have a significant absence for the Derby. Right back Matheuzinho, with an overload in the posterior muscle of his right thigh, is expected to be rested for the game.

The absence concerns the coach, who has no alternatives for the position. It's worth noting that Léo Mana, who was the immediate backup in the sector, was loaned to Criciúma.

(Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Corinthians Agency)

Who plays?

Due to the lack of alternatives, Dorival may change the formation to a scheme with three defenders or resort to improvisations. This year, both Félix Torres and midfielder Charles have 'filled in' at right back.

Usually, when Matheuzinho is out, the coach opts for Félix. The defender, however, is going through a rough patch and has been called out. Corinthians fans disapproved of the defender's performances in the match against Vasco last Sunday, for the Brasileirão, and Athletico-PR, on Wednesday, for the Brazil Cup. On both occasions, he came on in the second half to replace the starting right-back.

Against Vasco, there was a peculiar situation. The fans complained that Félix had failed in the second goal scored by the Cariocas and, moments after the game, the player made an enigmatic post on his official Instagram account.

(Photo: Reproduction/Instagram)

Gazeta Esportiva found out that Dorival Júnior will test other options this Saturday, the eve of the Derby. Only after analyzing all the paths, will he define the team's lineup.

What about Jacaré?

An alternative for Corinthians would be the young right back João Vitor, known as 'Jacaré'. The 18-year-old has been training with the professionals, but has not yet been given a chance in the team.

The Son of Terrão is close to renewing his contract with the club, but still, he is not expected to get a chance at this time. In the last press conference, Dorival indicated that the player is not yet ready, and also asked for patience with Félix Torres.

"Regarding the right-back position, we recently brought in Jacaré. It's still very little compared to what has been worked with the other boys, like Bahia, Gui, Kayke, André. He needs a little more experience, work, to achieve important behaviors," explained the coach.

"Félix is an Ecuadorian national team player, he agreed to play out of position, it's not simple. I ask the fans to be patient. The athletes are capable of performing certain functions, with Félix it's no different. We are working so that he feels comfortable," he added.

Dorival has one more training session to define Corinthians' lineup against Palmeiras. The classic match, valid for the 22nd round of the Brazilian Championship, is scheduled for 6:30 pm (Brasília time) this Sunday, at Neo Química Arena.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.