The Brazilian soccer scene has been abuzz following recent performances by Corinthians midfielder André Carrillo, who has emerged as an essential player under Ramón Díaz's tactical system. On March 18, 2025, during an episode of the sports talk show #OsDonosDaBola, the panelists praised Carrillo, emphasizing his pivotal role amidst the team’s dynamics and strategy.
In the ongoing Campeonato Paulista, Carrillo's contributions have been significant, most notably during the finals against Palmeiras. The match on March 16, 2025, saw Carrillo's effective gameplay stand out, as he executed 37 successful passes out of 42 attempts, contributing greatly to the team's overall performance in their narrow 1-0 victory. During the game, he not only demonstrated remarkable precision with a passing accuracy of 88.9%, but he also initiated the play that led to the crucial goal scored by Gustavo Henrique.
Amid the absence of regular starter Rodrigo Garro, who was rested, Carrillo took charge in the midfield alongside teammates Raniele and José Martínez. His ability to dictate the pace of the game was crucial, as highlighted by Raniele in a mixed-zone interview post-game. "It wasn’t easy, obviously; it was very complicated. But I think we managed to make it less difficult with our movements, these position exchanges [with Carrillo and Martínez]," he remarked, acknowledging the coordinated effort that led to their victory.
Beyond his contributions to Corinthians, Carrillo's strong form has also earned him a spot on the Peruvian national team, marking a remarkable comeback after being left out during the previous international fixtures. This call-up comes under the new management of Óscar Íbañez, set to helm the national side in a critical period for Peru, who are currently at the bottom of the South American qualifiers with only seven points. He is scheduled to participate in matches against Bolivia on March 20, and Venezuela on March 25, 2025, aiming to uplift his national team’s standing.
Carrillo's career statistics with Corinthians this year further emphasize his value; he has played 15 games, resulting in 10 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses, alongside scoring two goals and providing one assist. His performance is not only noteworthy for its volume but also for its quality, showcasing his impressive understanding of the game and his effectiveness in high-pressure situations.
The clash with Palmeiras was particularly instrumental for Carrillo, showcasing his strategic importance in crucial matches. At the age of 33, he might not be the youngest player on the field, but his experience and ability to remain calm under pressure have made him a crucial asset for the Corinthians squad as they prepare for a demanding schedule, including playing every three days in upcoming fixtures.
As the Corinthians advance through their season, Carrillo's role appears increasingly significant. His awareness on the pitch and tactical insight have made him not just a participant but a leader in pivotal matches. As the team gears up for another encounter and hopes to maintain their momentum, fans and analysts alike are curious to see how he will continue to influence the outcome of future games.
With the national team call-up and his vital contribution to Corinthians, Carrillo is certainly one to watch as both player and leader in the remaining fixtures of this season, proving that age is just a number when it comes to passion and performance on the soccer field.
