Flamengo Counts on Samuel Lino Against Santos

With the international break coming to an end, Flamengo is preparing to face Santos on Thursday, October 8, in the Campeonato Brasileiro. The club is counting on the return of Pedro and Samuel Lino, who featured in the Brazil national team's two friendlies in Asia.

Samuel Lino returns from the Brazilian national team

The forward took part in both matches against Australia, accumulating 33 minutes on the pitch. Afterwards, he traveled to India, where Brazil plays its final friendly of the international break, scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m. (Brasília time).

Club's expectations regarding availability

José Boto, Flamengo's director of football, stated that the team is counting on Pedro and Samuel Lino for the match against Santos. According to the executive, both will arrive in time, even if they are not in peak physical condition due to the trip.

Confirmed absences

Players Varela and Anthony Valencia, also called up, have commitments with the national teams of Uruguay and Ecuador, respectively, which extend through the following Tuesday. Because of the long distance and the matches still to be played, the chances of them returning in time for the clash are remote.

Impact of Arrascaeta's absence

The injury to Arrascaeta, who underwent surgery and has an estimated return time of six to eight weeks, has heightened the club's concern. The absence of the midfielder reinforces the need to have the forwards returning from the national team.

Flamengo's next challenge

The Rubro-Negro faces Santos in a match considered important for the continuation of their campaign. The presence of Samuel Lino and Pedro, even if tired, should provide options for the manager to form the attack and minimize the impact of the absences.

With information from ge, UOL.