Ayrton Lucas Expected to Miss One Month for Flamengo

Ayrton Lucas is expected to be sidelined for Flamengo for about one month. The club announced a right hamstring injury suffered by the player during the clash against Red Bull Bragantino, but recovery will not be straightforward. Reporting by Bernardo Ramos indicates that the left-back is unlikely to be ready right after the two-week FIFA international break, jeopardizing his selection for the first leg of the Copa Libertadores semifinals against Estudiantes.

In the video above, Bernardo Ramos shares exclusive behind-the-scenes reporting from the club and analyzes the tactical impact of his absence on the coaching staff's system. The injury occurred in the left-back's 12th consecutive start for the Rubro-Negro, reflecting a grueling fixture schedule.

Tactical impact on Leonardo Jardim's system

Ayrton Lucas's absence alters the team's attacking dynamics. In Bernardo's view, the number 6 was in top form precisely because he provides width and pace down the left flank. This trait allows players like Samuelino to drift inside from the wing, linking up and combining with Arrascaeta, Pedro, Bruno Henrique, or Carrascal.

According to Bernardo, manager Leonardo Jardim prioritizes overlapping full-backs who push forward. In contrast to Filipe Luís's previous setup—which used Alexandro in a wider playmaking role and kept Samuelino pinned to the flank—the current system requires Alexandro to step out of his comfort zone and attack the byline, as seen when he delivered the cross for Arrascaeta's shot off the post against Red Bull Bragantino.