Santos could once again use Barreal at left-back when it faces Bragantino on Monday at 8 p.m. Brasília time at the Cícero de Souza Marques stadium in Bragança Paulista, in the 34th round of the Brazilian Championship.
The Argentine has replaced Escobar, who has missed the team’s latest matches because of pain in his right thigh. Although left-back is not his usual position, Barreal has pleased coach Cuca, who no longer views him simply as an emergency option in the role.
Barreal’s chances of staying in the starting lineup have increased because competition has also grown in his natural position on the left side of the attack. He had been a starter there until suffering a left-thigh injury in Santos’ Copa do Brasil quarterfinal second leg against Palmeiras.
During his absence, Santos signed Everton Cebolinha, who took control of the position. After recovering, Barreal received new opportunities in attack but failed to produce strong performances and lost his place. His opportunity to return to the team came when Escobar was injured.
The Argentine’s development at left-back comes as Santos deals with limited options in the position. Vinícius Lira suffered a serious injury to his left knee and is still transitioning back to the pitch. Rafael Gonzaga was promoted to the senior squad but returned to the under-20 team after inconsistent performances, although Cuca occasionally includes him in the matchday squad.
Luan Peres and João Ananias are other possibilities, despite being natural center-backs. However, injuries to Lucas Veríssimo and Willian Arão have reduced the team’s defensive alternatives, and Cuca has avoided using all the available defenders together.
Sources: Globo Esporte.