Flamengo is definitely having a hard time when it comes to calling up its players to their national teams. After losing Kleberson, who dislocated his right shoulder while playing for Brazil against Estonia, it was Maldonado's turn to pick up an injury in a friendly against Slovakia. On Tuesday afternoon, the midfielder was the star of the Chilean national team's 2-1 victory over the European team when he felt a left knee injury and had to be substituted.

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The player was the star of the victory and was considered the best player on the pitch by the Chilean press, but he had to leave the match in the 26th minute of the second half after being fouled and falling to the ground, requesting a substitution. The Chilean national team's medical department has not yet disclosed the severity of the injury, but the problem is already causing Flamengo concern for the final three rounds of the Brasileirão. The player was signed in August and has since established himself in the defensive system and midfield of the Gávea team.

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However, even without Maldonado, the red-and-black team defeated Náutico 2-0 last Sunday. Another Flamengo player, midfielder Fierro, also started the match. If Maldonado doesn't recover in time and his injury is truly serious, he will likely be replaced by Toró, as happened in the match against Náutico. Shortly after the match, the midfielder gave an interview to the Chilean press, and it appears his injury is indeed serious.

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"It seems like I have a meniscus or ligament problem. But I have to keep my head up. This happening after so long away from the national team makes me angry, especially because I know it will be a long recovery," lamented Maldonado.

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_{Corrected. Contrary to what was published, Kleberson's injury occurred during a friendly match between the Brazilian national team and Estonia.}