Grêmio is utilizing the break in their schedule to tackle one of their primary challenges this season: the midfield configuration.
Head coach Luís Castro has been experimenting extensively in recent friendlies, aiming not only to enhance chance creation but also to identify a suitable replacement for Arthur, the former captain who departed after his loan expired.
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To bolster passing and support young talent Gabriel Mec, the seasoned Willian has been shifted more towards the left side of midfield. However, the results of this gamble haven’t met the coaching staff’s expectations in the trial matches.
During the match against Cascavel, Willian was substituted at halftime while the score was tied (the team went on to clinch victory afterward).
In the game against Chapecoense, he was replaced just five minutes into the second half as the team was down 2-0 (Grêmio improved and managed to score after he left the field).
Though these substitutions were pre-planned to provide playing time, the decline in performance with Willian on the pitch has cast doubt on his starting position. With his contract expiring at the end of the year and considering both his performances and the club’s policy to manage the wage budget, it’s likely that Willian will not renew his contract.
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In search of a replacement, Luís Castro is contemplating various alternatives, as reported by ge.
Amuzu: He could bring a different dynamic with his pace and dribbling ability.
Braithwaite: He might function centrally, positioned behind striker Carlos Vinicius, which would allow Gabriel Mec to move to the flank.
Monsalve: He is a less favored option this season and might be sold soon due to reported interest from Argentina’s Estudiantes.
The question remains: Who will take Arthur’s place?
The top candidate to fill this gap is Argentine Juan Nardoni. He participated in both recent friendlies, and Luís Castro envisions forming a defensive midfield duo with fellow countryman Leo Pérez, who had already secured a starting role prior to the Copa break.
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Another name re-entering the conversation is Villasanti. The Paraguayan recently made his return to the field after almost a year of recovery from a severe knee injury suffered in August 2025. With his energetic box-to-box style, he could either step in as Nardoni’s immediate alternative or serve as a tactical option should a third defensive midfielder be necessary.
Grêmio in the Transfer Market
Amid concerns of losing key players—Gabriel Mec is also in discussions for a potential transfer—the Grêmio management is actively scouting the transfer market for specific reinforcements. Their priorities include:
An attacking midfielder.
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A right-back (talks regarding 22-year-old Diego Caito from Goiás have progressed significantly in recent days).
A center-back to strengthen the left side of defense.
Upcoming Fixtures
Before resuming their campaign for points, Grêmio has one more friendly scheduled to finalize their preparations:
Friendly: This Sunday, they will face Cruzeiro at Mané Garrincha Stadium (Brasília) at 5 p.m.
Official Return: Next Friday, Tricolor will visit Mirassol at 8 p.m. for the 19th round of the Brazilian Championship.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.