Cruzeiro Accelerates 2026 Planning Amid Tight Calendar and Roster Changes

As the 2025 season nears its end, Cruzeiro is already in full swing with its planning for the 2026 campaign. The team is still competing in the Brasileirão and the Copa do Brasil, but it must make important decisions regarding its squad, reinforcements, and departures.

The tight calendar is a significant factor in Cruzeiro's planning. If the team reaches the Copa do Brasil final, the 2025 season may end on December 21, leaving the players with only 15 days of vacation. This means they will return on January 6, less than a week before the debut in the Campeonato Mineiro on January 11, as the Brasileirão is set to start on January 28.

Despite the busy schedule, Cruzeiro has already secured some key reinforcements. Goalkeeper Matheus Cunha from Flamengo and forward Néiser Villarreal from Millonarios have both signed pre-contracts with the club.

However, the team also faces several probable departures. Bolasie's automatic renewal clause has been removed, and he is likely to leave. Gamarra, on loan from Athletico, will not stay, and Fagner, on loan from Corinthians, wants to stay but faces competition for his position.

The future of Gabigol is also uncertain. The forward, who is under contract until 2028, has requested a meeting with the management after the Copa do Brasil to discuss his future. He is a substitute for Kaio Jorge and wants more playing time.

Cruzeiro's planning for the 2026 season is in full swing, with the club navigating a tight calendar and making important decisions regarding its squad, reinforcements, and departures.