What happened to Lucas Evangelista
Palmeiras confirmed a setback for midfielder Lucas Evangelista, who ruptured the posterior tendon of his right thigh. The injury was sustained during the team’s defeat against Bahia, a game in which Evangelista struggled to even exit the field. After initial tests, the club’s medical staff ordered further examinations, and the results indicated a more serious problem than first feared.
Diagnosis and medical implications
According to insider reporting, including new examinations conducted by Palmeiras, Evangelista has a rupture that will require surgical intervention. This diagnosis means a significant layoff from competition, with the minimum recovery time projected at around three months. The nature of the injury – a tendon rupture in the posterior thigh – typically demands surgery followed by a structured rehabilitation program to regain strength and function.
Impact on Palmeiras and the tactical puzzle
Evangelista had been enjoying a career resurgence at Palmeiras, cementing himself as a starter in the absence of Richard Ríos. His performance prompted Abel Ferreira to adjust the midfield, pushing Andreas Pereira forward to complement the team’s rhythm. With Evangelista sidelined, Palmeiras must navigate the rest of the season without one of their key contributors, potentially altering midfield balance and rotation options. The team faces the task of filling the gap left by the injury and maintaining consistency across fixtures as the calendar tightens.
Recovery timeline and medical perspective
Clinically, the standard recovery window for a surgically repaired posterior thigh tendon rupture is generally three to four months, depending on individual response to treatment and rehabilitation. Dr. Danyel Selleguim Laghi, an orthopedic surgeon at the Hospital Ortopédico AACD, notes that the healing curve for this kind of injury is cautious and progressive. The immediate weeks will focus on pain management, protecting the surgical site, and gradually restoring mobility, followed by a carefully staged program to rebuild strength, flexibility, and endurance. This plan is designed to reduce the risk of re-injury and ensure a safe return-to-play timeline.
What comes next for the squad
For Palmeiras, the absence of Evangelista adds pressure on the midfield depth chart. The club will likely rely on existing squad players to cover hours, with younger or less-utilized personnel stepping up to fill minutes. If the team decides to reinforce the area in the transfer market or via internal options, the decision will balance short-term impact against longer-term development goals. The coaching staff will also have to manage the tactical implications of Evangelista’s injury, potentially tweaking formations, pressing schemes, and ball progression patterns to maintain competitiveness while he recovers.
Looking ahead
As Evangelista centers his focus on surgery and rehabilitation, Palmeiras supporters will hope for a smooth surgical procedure and a disciplined return-to-play plan. The road back will be demanding, but modern rehabilitation strategies offer a clear path for a successful comeback. If all goes well, Evangelista can rejoin team activities mid-to-late next season, contributing with his vision, ball-playing ability, and defensive work rate. In the meantime, the squad and coaching staff will work to maximize results and maintain momentum during his absence.
Conclusion
The season takes a tough turn for Lucas Evangelista and Palmeiras as surgery becomes unavoidable after a posterior thigh tendon rupture. While the injury ends his current campaign, the focus shifts to effective recovery, rehabilitation, and a strategic approach to fill the gap in midfield. With professional care and commitment, Evangelista’s return remains a hopeful prospect for the future of the club.
