TITE ADDRESS THE INJURY CONTROVERSY AND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE TECHNICAL COMMITTEE AT FLAMENGO

Flamengo, which now has the renowned coach Tite at the helm of the team, faced a setback in its debut, with defender David Luiz suffering a sprained ankle, making him an absence in the next games. The relationship between the coaching staff and the club's medical department (MD) has become a topic of discussion amid the injury controversy. At a press conference held in Belo Horizonte, Tite made a point of addressing the issue.

At the event, Tite explained the circumstances of David Luiz and Bruno Henrique's injuries. The coach praised the high level of Flamengo's DM, but also recognized that the injuries can be attributed, in part, to a possible lack of quantification of training loads. He emphasized the importance of finding a balance in dosage and involving both the coach and the physical trainer in the process.

The close relationship between the coaching staff and the medical department became crucial, especially when faced with the recurring injuries to Flamengo players. On the other hand, the case of David Luiz, who suffered a sprained right ankle, was categorized as a traumatic injury resulting from an isolated incident, in which the player stepped inappropriately during a tackle with a Cruzeiro attacker.

After the incident, David Luiz underwent medical examinations at Ninho do Urubu, Flamengo's headquarters, which confirmed the severity of the injury. Fortunately, the suspected fracture was ruled out, alleviating concerns regarding the 36-year-old player. However, he will need to undergo intensive treatment at the club's Training Center.

The critical moment in which the injury occurred was nine minutes into the second half, during the game against Cruzeiro. David Luiz, while competing for the ball, landed unfavorably on a potholed pitch at the Mineirão Stadium, resulting in a sprained right ankle. As a consequence, Tite opted to replace the injured player with Pablo.

Flamengo, now without David Luiz, is preparing for the long-awaited classic against Vasco, scheduled for 4pm (Brasília time) this Sunday . The stage for this duel will be the iconic Maracanã Stadium, where Tite's team will try to continue their campaign in the Brazilian Championship in the 28th round. Expectations are high, as the team seeks to overcome adversity and achieve future victories, while the coaching staff continues to improve its interaction with Flamengo's medical department, aiming for more effective injury management in the future.