Flamengo's make-or-break run: knockout dates set, surprise signing lands | OneFootball

Flamengo are set for a demanding run of fixtures and pivotal squad changes as the club juggles domestic ambitions with continental and global objectives.

The Rio giants now know their schedule for the Copa Libertadores round of 16 showdown with Internacional. The first leg will be played at Maracanã on August 13 at 21:30, with the decisive return taking place a week later, on August 20, at Beira-Rio, also at 21:30. Both matches will be broadcast via Globo and ESPN, with streaming available on Globoplay and Disney+. This tie comes after the Copa Libertadores' brief pause to accommodate the Club World Cup—a tournament where Flamengo are also involved.

Flamengo progressed to the knockout stage by finishing second in Group C, tied on 11 points with LDU Quito but edged into the runner-up spot on tiebreakers. Their group campaign included away wins against Deportivo Táchira and home victories over LDU, but also a home loss to Central Córdoba and a draw in Argentina.

The Libertadores fixture list adds further complexity to a period when Flamengo's squad is in flux. The club just confirmed that Jorginho's arrival from Arsenal is imminent. The Italy international midfielder will land in Rio de Janeiro on Friday morning, traveling directly from London. To keep operations smooth, the club has arranged for his arrival and medical assessments out of the media spotlight, after which he will sign a three-year deal at Ninho do Urubu alongside director José Boto. Jorginho made a short video statement thanking Arsenal, highlighting the family atmosphere he experienced at the English club.

With Jorginho available for the Club World Cup, coach Filipe Luís will have a new option in midfield at a critical juncture. The timing is notable—Jorginho declined a final pay packet from Arsenal and terminated his contract early to join Flamengo in time for the global tournament. The squad's makeup will be closely watched as the team balances reinforcements, fitness, and potential departures, such as the ongoing situation around key wingers.

August will thus mark a decisive stretch: Flamengo must manage the shifting dynamics of their squad while facing high-stakes continental matches and adjusting to the demands of international and domestic competitions. With the Libertadores knockout rounds scheduled and new signings arriving, anticipation is building for what could be a defining run for the club in 2024.

Source: Lance