Juventude’s new number 10 faces his past | OneFootball

Lucas Fernandes could be in line for an immediate debut with Juventude as they host São Paulo in the 16th round of the Brazilian Championship this Thursday evening at Estádio Alfredo Jaconi, according to Arquibancada Tricolor. The 27-year-old attacking midfielder, newly signed by Juventude, is available for selection and could make his first appearance against the club where his professional career began.

Fernandes, who developed at São Paulo’s Cotia academy and broke into the first team in 2016, returns to Brazilian football after a spell with Portimonense in Portugal. During his time at São Paulo, he played 53 matches, scoring twice and providing five assists. His early years saw him feature alongside players such as Hernanes, Cueva, and Nenê—players who left a mark on the squad, with Nenê now also at Juventude.

The timing of his signing coincides with a particular need in Juventude’s squad following the departure of Jean Carlos to Criciúma. Manager Claudio Tencati moved to bring in Fernandes to fill the creative gap in midfield, offering immediate options ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.

Fernandes’s contract with Juventude runs through the end of 2025. Should he make his debut against São Paulo, the occasion would have a symbolic note, as he faces the club that shaped his formative years—a potential storyline that adds intrigue to Thursday’s contest.

For Juventude, integrating Fernandes is seen as a key move to add technical quality and depth to their squad. For São Paulo, the match offers a first look at how one of their academy products has developed since leaving the Morumbi.

(source: Arquibancada Tricolor)

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