Ricardo Lomba: Meet one of Flamengo's CoDe candidates

Flamengo is taking a break from the pitch due to the FIFA World Cup, but the team's recent form is raising alarm bells . In the last five games of the season, the team has scored just three goals and won just one match.

RECENT PERFORMANCE

In its most recent matches, Flamengo only defeated Corinthians, 2-1, in a comeback, in the 25th round of the Brasileirão . Furthermore, it drew with Vasco and Cruzeiro, and was defeated by Estudiantes (Libertadores) and Bahia (Brasileirão). During this period, the team failed to score in three matches, an offensive performance well below expectations for a star-studded squad.

DIFFICULTIES IN ATTACK

The red-and-black attack has been a source of concern for Filipe Luís. In the last ten games, the coach has repeated his attacking line only once: the trio of Gonzalo Plata, Samuel Lino, and Pedro, who were together in the 8-0 rout of Vitória and the 1-1 draw with Grêmio. The lack of continuity and frequent changes have impacted the team's offensive fluidity, which struggles to convert possession into clear-cut chances.

FIFA DATA SERVES AS A BREATHER

With the calendar suspended, Filipe Luís is taking advantage of the period to recover worn-out players and correct tactical flaws . The 1-0 loss to Bahia cost Palmeiras the lead in the Brasileirão. Both teams have 55 points, but Flamengo is in second place due to wins, an advantage for the São Paulo team.

NEXT APPOINTMENT

Flamengo's return to action will be on October 15th, against Botafogo, at 7:30 pm (Brasília time) at Nilton Santos Stadium, for the 28th round of the Brasileirão. The classic will be broadcast live on Premiere (pay-per-view) and promises to be an important test to gauge the squad's response after the FIFA World Cup break.

According to information released by journalist Felippe Facincani, Gerson would be willing to return to Brazilian football and had held initial talks with Palmeiras. However, an investigation by Gazeta do Urubu indicates that this information is untrue. The midfielder has been at Zenit for four months and has yet to make his full debut for the Russian club, as he is recovering from an injury suffered shortly after his arrival.

The player hasn't played in 50 days and hasn't even participated in a single official match for the St. Petersburg team . Therefore, negotiations with any Brazilian team are unlikely at this time. Sources close to the player assure that he remains focused on recovery and regaining his place in the Zenit squad.

FLAMENGO REMAINS OFF THE RADAR

Flamengo 's name was even considered, but a return is practically ruled out. The relationship between Marcão, Gerson's father and agent, and the Flamengo board has remained strained since the player's tumultuous departure. Furthermore, the squad already boasts recent midfield reinforcements like Jorginho and Saúl, which eliminates the need for new signings in that area.

On Palmeiras' side, although coach Abel Ferreira has been mentioned in some speculation, the São Paulo club is not in talks with the player. The investigation itself confirms that, to date, there has been no formal contact or concrete interest from the Palmeiras board.

FLAMENGO PRIORITIZES RENEWALS

While Gerson seeks a place in Russia, Flamengo 's board focuses its efforts on securing the continued presence of key players. José Boto is working on extending Giorgian De Arrascaeta's contract until 2028 , reinforcing the club's long-term sporting plan.

According to journalist Felippe Facincani, midfielder Gerson is reportedly interested in returning to Brazil next season . His staff is in initial talks with Palmeiras , although the process is still in the preliminary stages. The player, currently at Zenit, was acquired for €25 million (approximately R$157 million), which represents a financial obstacle for any interested Brazilian club.

The Russian team's board is reportedly willing to release the player in January , provided they receive a satisfactory offer. However, Gerson hasn't been a regular starter in Zenit's squad, which facilitates a possible negotiation.

RIFT WITH THE RUBRO-NEGRA BOARD

A return to Flamengo is considered unlikely at this point. The relationship between Marcão, Gerson's father and agent, and the Flamengo board has remained strained since the player's tumultuous departure . Furthermore, the club recently signed defensive midfielders Jorginho and Saúl, bolstering the midfield and reducing the need for further investments in that area.

On the green and white side, Palmeiras appears to be the most viable option, mainly because it offers the player greater visibility. Gerson's goal is to play in the 2026 World Cup, and the showcase of Brazilian football could help him regain his place on the national team. Coach Abel Ferreira has reportedly already given the green light for a possible deal, although sources close to Gazeta do Urubu indicate that negotiations are currently underway.

FLAMENGO FOCUSED ON RENEWALS

While Gerson decides his future in Europe, Mengão's board is focusing its efforts on retaining key players . Executive director José Boto is working on extending Giorgian De Arrascaeta's contract until 2028, aiming to ensure the Uruguayan midfielder remains a cornerstone of the team.