Globo Esporte Futebol reports that Dorival Júnior has promoted the debuts of Domingos Duarte, Newton, Iago, and Aurélio Buta in the 1-1 draw against Bolívar in the Sul-Americana. The four new signings have increased competition for positions and given the coach more alternatives for the rest of the season. With the four debuts, 41 players have now defended the team this season.
The new signings have already started to make an impact, with Domingos Duarte and Newton remaining on the pitch for the full 90 minutes. Domingos Duarte, a Portuguese defender, had a secure debut and is an option for a position that has been weakened by the departure of Alan Franco and Rafael Toloi's physical problems. Newton, a versatile player, showed his ability to play in different positions, including as a centre-back.
Iago also had a significant contribution to the game, playing as a left-back for 61 minutes and taking a corner kick that Arboleda headed towards the goal. Wendell, his main competitor for the position, entered the game in the second half. Aurélio Buta, the last of the new signings to debut, replaced Lucas Ramon in the final minutes of the game and received a yellow card after just seven minutes on the pitch.
The new signings have increased the possibilities for Dorival Júnior as the team faces a crucial part of the season. On Saturday, São Paulo will face Coritiba at home in the 22nd round of the Campeonato Brasileiro, and on Tuesday, they will receive Bolívar at home in the return match of the Sul-Americana.