Cruzeiro faces new challenge on the left flank after stabilizing the right
After settling their right-back rotation, Cruzeiro must now address the left side due to Kaiki's impending departure.
After a period of instability on the right side of the defense, Cruzeiro has finally found a steady solution under head coach Artur Jorge. Throughout the current season, the team cycled through various options on the right, with no single player reaching the 20-match mark until recently. Fagner has since taken over the role, providing defensive solidity and effective support in the attacking phase.
The situation on the opposite flank is now at a turning point. Kaiki, who has been the undisputed starter at left-back since Marlon’s departure in 2025, is nearing a permanent transfer to the Italian side Como. His exit leaves a significant gap, given that he has been a consistent presence for the team, logging 33 appearances this season.
To address this, the club has moved quickly to sign Gabriel Rojas. The Argentine defender is known for his offensive traits, with some analysts noting that his style of play can resemble that of a winger in certain tactical setups. Artur Jorge now faces the challenge of integrating Rojas into the squad to maintain the defensive balance the team worked hard to establish throughout the year.