Major changes for Flamengo as Maracanã farewell looms | OneFootball

Flamengo manager Filipe Luís has settled on his starting eleven for Sunday’s match against Fortaleza, the team’s final outing in front of home supporters before departing for the Club World Cup. The lineup, featuring several notable choices and enforced absences, was announced ahead of the evening fixture at Maracanã.

Matías Viña is named among the substitutes, with Guillermo Varela and Danilo earning spots in the starting defense. Flamengo’s likely formation sees Rossi in goal, backed by a back four of Varela, Léo Ortiz, Danilo, and Alex Sandro. The midfield will be anchored by Everton Araújo and Gerson, with Arrascaeta orchestrating play ahead of them. Up front, Luiz Araújo, Everton Cebolinha, and Bruno Henrique complete the attacking trio.

Injuries and fitness concerns have influenced selection. Plata and De La Cruz remain unavailable as they continue their recovery in the medical department. Erick Pulgar, although recently back to full training after injury, is rested with a focus on the upcoming trip to the United States. Allan, sidelined due to muscular discomfort, is also left out of the squad.

This Maracanã fixture takes on added significance as Flamengo's sendoff before the World Cup campaign. Supporters are preparing a series of tributes—including banners bearing the images of the club’s 1981 world champions—in anticipation of the team’s international challenge.

On the opposition side, Fortaleza manager Juan Pablo Vojvoda is dealing with his own selection headaches, with seven players unavailable: Lucas Sasha, Bruninho, Moisés, Matheus Rossetto, Pedro Augusto, Diogo Barbosa, and Pol Fernandez all miss out. Fortaleza’s starting XI is set to include João Ricardo in goal, joined by Tinga, Mancuso, Gustavo Mancha, and Kuscevic in defense. Zé Welison, Martínez, and Pochettino marshal the midfield, with Lucas Prior, Marinho, and Deyverson forming the attack.

Kickoff for this 11th round Brasileirão contest is scheduled for 18:30 (Brasília time) at the Maracanã. With the prospect of the World Cup looming, both the team and their supporters will be hoping to sign off on a positive note.

Source: Lance