Danilo Returns to Brazil on CBF Charter Flight

Flamengo saw its midfielder Danilo land in Rio on Tuesday (July 7) aboard the CBF charter plane, coming from New Jersey where Brazil was knocked out by Norway. The player, who has not yet entered the training centre, returns to the club as it prepares for friendlies against Australia in September.

Why did Danilo travel with the national team?

Danilo’s call‑up for the 2026 World Cup was confirmed in May, and he attended all the US‑based camps. When Brazil fell 2‑1 (Erling Haaland scored twice, Neymar reduced the deficit from the spot) on Sunday (5), the 26‑man squad was cleared to fly home. Danilo was the only Flamengo representative on the CBF flight, while teammates abroad headed to preseason or holidays.

How does his absence affect Flamengo?

Without Danilo, Carlo Ancelotti had to reshuffle the midfield for this week’s training. The club has not announced a direct replacement, but Pedro, the season’s top scorer with 10 goals in 17 appearances, could see more minutes. Flamengo still sits first in Serie A, 79 points, 23 wins, 10 draws, 5 losses, boasting a +51 goal difference (78 scored, 27 conceded) and a three‑point lead over Palmeiras.

What’s Flamengo’s next challenge?

The immediate schedule features two friendlies against Australia on September 25 and 29 in Townsville and Brisbane. Domestically, the next official match is against São Paulo at home on July 26, with the opponent sitting eighth in the table. Flamengo’s last league result was a 3‑0 loss to RB Bragantino on April 3, and its recent form reads LLWDW (loss, loss, win, draw, loss), with two defeats in a row.

What can we expect from Danilo in upcoming games?

Despite the brief break, Danilo arrives in good physical shape, having played the full 90 minutes against Norway. His return to Flamengo should be swift, as the team aims to preserve its league lead and improve the recent run. If Ancelotti integrates the midfielder into this week’s drills, Danilo could be available for the Australia friendly, adding depth to the midfield before the crucial clash with São Paulo.