Even in a weekend where the great clubs of Santos and Corinthians pitch battle in the Classico Alvinegro whilst fighting for a place in the top four and title contention, it’s the walking soap opera named ‘Fred’ that will take centre stage.
“O Fred via te pagar!” – “Fred will get you!”, Fluminense’s menacing chant from the terraces for the seven successful years the Brazilian international striker spent at the Fluzao. On Monday he’s set for an emotional return to his old hunting ground, but now in the black and white of Atletico Mineiro and pushing for his second championship title.
Fred isn’t planning on celebrating if he scores, but he’ll just absorb the moment: “Let’s see what will happen there… I always have the habit of respecting the clubs [I] have spent time with, it’s a nice way to treat the fans who gave me so much love, the club that supported me in difficult times who live great moments as well. Certainly the affection is there, but when the ball [is] rolling, I will do everything to score, as always.” He’s certainly still got a lot of love for Fluminense, even after how the relationship turned out, but he won’t be letting that stand in his way; if the ball is there to be struck, he’ll strike it.
Fred’s big strike partner Lucas Pratto will be back in the team after returning from international duty with Argentina, scoring with just his second cap.
Playing both target men upfront has been a revelation, and manager Marcelo Oliveira will feel more confident after Atletico squandered so many chances against Victoria.
Oliveira has a welcome headache in trying to choose a partner for returning centre-back and captain Leonardo Silva. Both Edcarlos and Gabriel staked their claim in the last game and it could be a toss of a coin decision between the two.
With Fluminense’s Diego Cavelieri out injured, Julio Cesar has been brought in to goal to stop Atletico’s dangerous front four. The 30-year-old keeper will be making just his fourth appearance for the club, yet he’s confident of performing while also wary of his lack of game time. “Of course I’ll be a little without rhythm, but I will have a great desire,” he told Globo Esporte. Defensive midfielder Pierre misses out on facing his old club Atletico, where he spent four years, with suspension after picking up a booking in the Fluzao’s loss to Botafogo. Meanwhile, striker Richarlison is available for selection again after dropping down briefly to the U-20 team.
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