São Paulo hit by big absences as Tapia enters the derby spotlight | OneFootball

São Paulo's squad will be missing several key players for the derby against Corinthians this Saturday at MorumBIS, according to Arquibancada Tricolor. Manager Hernán Crespo will still be without Lucas Moura, who underwent a recent ultrasound-guided injection to treat persistent pain. Lucas, whose absence is due to ongoing issues that required a medical intervention, is joined on the sidelines by Luiz Gustavo, Ryan Francisco, and Calleri—none are available for the 15th round of the Brasileirão.

On a more positive note, new signing Gonzalo Tapia has been registered and is eligible to feature for the first time. The Chilean forward’s paperwork was finalized on Friday, making him an immediate option as São Paulo look to compensate for the absence of their attacking regulars. With a condensed fixture calendar and mounting fitness concerns, Tapia’s arrival adds depth at a crucial moment for the club.

In terms of lineup, São Paulo’s likely XI sees Rafael in goal; Ferraresi, Arboleda, and Alan Franco anchoring the defense; Cédric, Bobadilla, Marcos Antônio, Enzo Diaz, and Oscar in midfield; with Luciano partnering André Silva in attack. The club will also need to keep an eye on discipline: Rafael, Alan Franco, Sabino, Arboleda, Ferraresi, Pablo Maia, Bobadilla, and Ferreira all enter the match one yellow card away from suspension.

The stakes are similarly high on the other side. Corinthians arrive with injury problems of their own and doubts over certain key players, but for São Paulo the bigger challenge is to overcome both absences and disciplinary threats in what is always one of the league’s most contentious rivalries.

With Crespo unable to call on Lucas Moura’s attacking spark, there will be added focus on Luciano—who has been one of the club’s most consistent contributors in recent weeks—and the integration of Tapia if he makes his debut. Navigating these setbacks while maintaining the squad’s competitive edge will be pivotal as São Paulo seek vital points in their campaign.

(Source: Arquibancada Tricolor)