Rodrigo Garro is set to return to the field for Corinthians after enduring one of the toughest periods of his career, marked by personal challenges and physical rehabilitation. The Argentine midfielder will take the pitch this Sunday, February 9, 2025, facing São Bernardo at Neo Química Arena, after being sidelined due to injury and trauma.
Garro’s comeback is not just about recovering from his knee injury, which required intensive treatment and rehabilitation throughout January; it also involves addressing the emotional toll stemming from a tragic accident. On January 4, the player was involved in a car collision resulting in the death of motorcyclist Nicolás Chiaraviglio. The accident occurred shortly after Garro was celebrating his 27th birthday. Following the incident, he faced legal repercussions and was temporarily detained before being released to return to Brazil. Despite being indicted for involuntary manslaughter, Garro has been allowed to continue training with Corinthians as the legal proceedings continue.
His return to the team serves as both a relief for the club and its fan base, as Garro had established himself as one of their key players during the past season. Before his injury, he had been recognized as the standout midfielder of the Brazilian league, providing 14 assists and contributing significantly to the team’s success. The anticipation among supporters is palpable, as he steps back onto the pitch wearing the number 8 shirt, which has deep historical roots at Corinthians.
The switch from the number 10, which he wore previously and is now donned by Memphis Depay due to contractual clauses, has been met with warmth from the club. The number 8 is famously worn by esteemed players such as Sócrates and Renato Augusto. To celebrate this transition, Corinthians initiated the campaign “A Garro La Ocho,” underscoring the importance of the number and the legacy it holds within the club. Garro himself expressed gratitude for the honor of wearing such a significant number, saying he feels “renewed” and ready to forge on.
His recovery process included not only physical rehabilitation for the tendinopathy affecting his right knee but also psychological support facilitated by the club’s management. Corinthians management has strategically shielded Garro from media scrutiny, particularly during the early days following the accident. By doing so, they aimed to support his mental health and reintegration back onto the team.
Garro’s initial absence this season allowed newcomer Igor Coronado to fill the gap; Coronado achieved modest success with two goals in six games, but the murmurings from fans indicate their longing for Garro’s playmaking prowess on the field.
Coach Ramón Díaz reaffirmed Garro's readiness prior to the match, emphasizing, “We know Garro is working hard and is ready. We did not want to risk him before on this dynamic pitch.” Díaz’s confidence highlights the expectation Garro’s presence brings to the squad as they strive to maintain their top position in the controversial Campeonato Paulista.
On the field, the stakes are particularly high this Sunday as both Corinthians and São Bernardo vie for the top spot. Currently leading the tournament standings with 19 points, Corinthians maintains only a narrow three-point advantage over São Bernardo, who could usurp their position with a victory.
Garro’s return is significant not just for team dynamics but also for personal redemption. After overcoming immense pressure and turmoil, the Argentine midfielder returns to the club with renewed purpose and drive. Fans are hopeful—and perhaps anxious—that he can quickly return to the form which made him integral to the team's success.
Players throughout the squad have rallied around him, eager to welcome back the playmaker who enchanted supporters only last season with his combination of skill and vision on the pitch. With promises of support from teammates and management alike, Garro looks poised to make his long-awaited mark once more.
The match kicks off at 20:30 (Brasília time) this Sunday, and it promises to be not just another game, but the beginning of something new for Rodrigo Garro as he seeks to reclaim his place among the Timão’s legends, donning the number 8 jersey with pride.