What happened
Palmeiras confirmed that midfielder Lucas Evangelista sustained a serious injury in the team’s defeat to Bahia over the weekend. He was unable to continue after the moment of impact and had to be helped off the pitch, signaling a troubling early end to his involvement in the match and raising concerns about his availability for the remainder of the season.
Diagnosis and surgery
Following follow-up evaluations, Palmeiras’ medical staff determined a rupture of the right hamstring tendon. The diagnosis, described as more severe than initial assessments suggested, led to a surgical plan to repair the damaged tendon. Surgery is expected to initiate a structured rehabilitation process, with the club outlining the next steps as the timeline for recovery begins from the operation date.
Context at Palmeiras
Evangelista had been enjoying a notable spell at Palmeiras, earning a regular place in the starting XI after Richard Ríos’ exit from the club. His performances helped Abel Ferreira adjust the team’s setup, including moving Andreas Pereira higher up the pitch to balance the midfield. The injury Ripples through the squad as the coach looks to reconfigure midfield options for the rest of the campaign.
Recovery timeline
In sports medicine, a tendon rupture requiring surgical repair generally requires a substantial period away from competitive action. The latest medical estimates place the minimum recovery time at around three months, with many players needing three to four months before returning to full training and competitive matches. Dr. Danyel Selleguim Laghi, an orthopedic surgeon at Hospital Ortopédico AACD, notes that while individual progress varies, the typical window for tendon repair rehabilitation commonly falls within this three-to-four-month range. The club and medical team will monitor Evangelista’s progress closely as the rehabilitation plan progresses.
Impact on the season and squad planning
With Evangelista sidelined for a significant portion of the season, Palmeiras will be forced to adapt its midfield structure. The absence of a player who had become a fixed option in recent matches may lead to increased responsibilities for other midfielders and a reevaluation of tactical roles. The club will likely rely on its depth in the squad and any available reinforcements to cover for the long-term absence, particularly in domestic competitions and potential cup ties where squad rotation could be crucial.
What fans can expect next
As Evangelista begins the rehabilitation journey, attention will turn to the medical timetable for his return and the steps the coaching staff will take to preserve form and team balance during his absence. While the immediate priority is recovery, Palmeiras will also weigh long-term considerations, such as whether to accelerate reintegration of the injured player or to pursue additional midfield options in the transfer windows or during the season. The club’s communications will continue to provide updates as Evangelista progresses through rehabilitation.
