Cruzeiro arrive with Japa boost, but one big name stays home | OneFootball

Cruzeiro have landed in Espírito Santo ahead of their Vitó ria Cup campaign, with a squad featuring Japa but missing Matheus Henrique as both players continue their recovery from injury, according to Globo. The midfielder Matheus Henrique, recovering from a meniscus injury suffered in early April during a Copa Sudamericana fixture, remains in Belo Horizonte to progress through the latter stages of his rehabilitation. He recently transitioned back to on-field training and is anticipated to return to action in July. Japa, meanwhile, is back with the squad despite a thigh problem and has yet to feature in 2025, but his presence signals optimism over a potential return.

Japa and Matheus Henrique have generated considerable anticipation among the supporters, but only Japa made the trip. Club owner Pedro Lourenço remains hopeful about Japa’s contributions once fit, seeing him as a key asset for the midfield. Both players’ recoveries are being monitored closely by the technical staff.

Among the travelling contingent are Gamarra, Lautaro, and Walace, all of whom may depart in the upcoming transfer window set to open on 10 July. Of the three, Gamarra—on loan from Athletico Paranaense—is the most likely to move, while Lautaro and Walace have expressed their desire to remain at Cruzeiro beyond this window.

Cruzeiro’s first test in the Vitó ria Cup comes against Argentine side Defensa y Justicia at Estádio Kleber Andrade in Cariacica on Thursday evening. This meeting marks the debut encounter between the clubs. The probable starting side is expected to include Cássio in goal, with a back line of William, Fabrício Bruno, Lucas Villalba, and Kaiki. The midfield could feature Lucas Romero, Lucas Silva, and Christian, with Matheus Pereira in a more advanced role behind Wanderson and Kaio Jorge. On Sunday, Cruzeiro will take on Banfield, also from Argentina, at the same venue. Each match in the competition carries its own trophy.

Desportiva Ferroviária join as the fourth club in the tournament, though they will not play against Cruzeiro during the event.

Fan support remains vocal, with the squad receiving an enthusiastic reception from Cruzeiro supporters upon arrival in Vitória. The squad, which includes senior figures such as Cássio, Lucas Romero, and Matheus Pereira, sees a mix of experienced campaigners and young talents, reflecting an eye towards the upcoming domestic fixtures once the Vitó ria Cup concludes.

Transfer speculation will continue to surround certain players until the closure of the window, but for now, the focus shifts to preparations and building momentum in Espírito Santo before resuming the Brasileirão.

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