Author: Shreyas Sharma
Flamengo coach Jorge Sampaoli has expressed his disappointment at his team’s defeat in the Copa do Brasil final, but made it clear that he has no intention of resigning. Speaking at a press conference after the 1-1 draw with São Paulo, which resulted in Flamengo finishing runners-up on aggregate, Sampaoli praised his team’s performance and emphasized his commitment to the club.
Sampaoli began by stressing that he believed the game was in Flamengo’s favor, saying that his team was superior in three of the four halves played in the two final matches. Despite the defeat, he praised his players for their effort and dedication throughout the match.
When asked about the pressure he has faced in his position and the possibility of resigning, Sampaoli firmly stated that he is not thinking of resigning and left the decision in the hands of the club’s president, Rodolfo Landim. Sampaoli, who has a contract with Flamengo until the end of 2024, acknowledged the challenging situation he inherited when he took up the position.
Sampaoli also emphasized the distinction between the Copa do Brasil and other competitions, stressing that he thought Flamengo had lost the tournament unfairly. He noted that the team’s performance in the Copa do Brasil does not reflect the team’s overall performance in other competitions.
Looking to the future, Sampaoli emphasized the importance of regularity if Flamengo are to be successful in the upcoming competitions, including the Campeonato Brasileiro and Libertadores. He acknowledged that the squad had gone through ups and downs during his tenure, but expressed confidence in the potential for improvement.
In conclusion, despite the Copa do Brasil defeat, Jorge Sampaoli remains committed to his role as Flamengo coach and is determined to help the team find the consistency they need to achieve their future goals. The decision on whether he stays in the job ultimately rests with the club president, who has been closely involved with the team. Flamengo fans hope that Sampaoli’s vision of regularity and success will come to fruition in the coming seasons.