Author: Barkha Roy
Flamengo’s star striker Pedro has made some shocking accusations against the club’s fitness coach Pablo Hernández. The alleged incident took place in the Independência dressing room after Flamengo’s recent victory over
Flamengo beat Atlético-MG in the Brazilian Championship on July 29th.
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According to Pedro’s account, the confrontation arose when Hernández was unhappy to see him sitting on the bench while the substitutes warmed up (the player interrupted the warm-up in the 65th minute, when Sampaoli made his 3rd and 4th substitutions, and went to the bench, although the coach had the opportunity to make another substitution). After the match, Pablo Fernades rudely told Pedro in the dressing room that he had shown disrespect by leaving the warm-up area during the game. The player replied that it was the coaching staff who had shown disrespect by not giving him the opportunity to play. The coach then hit the player in the face. A medical examination revealed injuries to his face and mouth.
Pedro immediately contacted the Rotham battalion to report the incident. He was accompanied by the club’s vice-president, a lawyer and a security guard. Pablo Fernandez was also questioned. In addition, statements were taken from players Pablo, Thiago Maia and Cebolinha. They confirmed the coach’s aggressive behavior and his kicking.
On social media, Pedro expressed his dismay and indignation at the incident, condemning the act as “cowardly” and unjustified. He also emphasized the emotional distress he has suffered in recent weeks, denouncing the violence and stating that this type of behavior does not deserve respect.
The situation caused a shock in the soccer community, raising concerns about the player’s safety and well-being. Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most prestigious soccer clubs, has been the scene of countless trials and tribulations for Pedro, but the alleged attack by a member of the coaching staff stands out as a deeply worrying incident.
During the match against Atlético-MG, Flamengo coach Jorge Sampaoli used all five permitted substitutions. However, despite Pedro’s talent and potential, he never got the chance to play. This decision, combined with the reported aggression, fueled Pedro’s frustration and sense of mistreatment within the club.
Flamengo’s board responded promptly to the allegations, promising a full investigation into the matter. The club’s reputation and image are under scrutiny, and the club is expected to take appropriate measures to maintain its commitment to player welfare and ethical standards.
The soccer community, fans and fellow players joined Pedro in showing their support and solidarity. Social media has been flooded with calls for justice and accountability, asking the authorities to conduct a fair investigation and impose the necessary sanctions if the allegations are proven to be true.
The incident has cast a cloud of uncertainty over Pablo Hernández’s future at the club and could have wider implications for the coaching staff. Regardless of the outcome, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility of soccer clubs to protect the welfare and dignity of their players.