Flamengo captain Marcelinho Machado underwent an MRI scan on Thursday afternoon, the 29th, at a clinic in Barra da Tijuca (West Zone of Rio de Janeiro). The player severely sprained his right knee last Saturday, the 24th, in the match against Vila Velha (ES), in the team's NBB 5 debut. The scan revealed a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), and the athlete's estimated recovery time is five to six months from surgery. The operation is scheduled for the second week of December. Marcelinho, who is being monitored by Flamengo doctor Dr. Bruno Tillmann, lamented the serious injury so early in the season and wants to minimize his time out as much as possible.
 
"I was very sad about the result. I knew it would be something more serious, but I hoped the news wouldn't be too bad. That happens; it's part of sports; no one is immune to injuries. This is the first serious injury I've had in my career, and I'm upset that I won't be able to help Flamengo. Now I have to focus on recovery, dedicate myself to the maximum because being away from the ball is very difficult. I'll focus on treatment and try to shorten the time. I want to try to return during this championship to help Flamengo in the playoffs," commented the number 4.