Tasked with leading Flamengo’s football restructuring in recent years, sporting director José Boto sees the club at a new level on the international stage. In an interview with the Spanish newspaper As, published this Wednesday, the Portuguese leader said that Rubro-Negro had already achieved the main sporting objectives of the project and was now looking to consolidate its position against the big European clubs.
- Striker asks to leave Borussia Dortmund at the request of the woman, who would be “limited” in the host city; to understand
— We have already done the most important thing: winning the championship and the Copa Libertadores. That was the goal. Now is the time to give the final touches — said Boto, commenting on the continental decision. For him, the Intercontinental Cup conflict has strategic and symbolic weight.
— It’s as important for the fans as it is for the project. This allows us to see where we are, comparing ourselves to the best teams in Europe.
According to the director, Flamengo’s ambition is clear: to transform the biggest club in South America into an institution with a mentality similar to that of the European giants. To achieve this, market policy has undergone a structural change. Boto revealed that upon taking office he identified a cultural barrier which prevented the club from competing for players playing in Europe.
— When I arrived, I said that Flamengo, by its name and its budget, could compete for certain players present in Europe. Before, they said, “We’re not even going to try.” We thought the best preferred Napoli, Benfica or Sporting to Flamengo, he explained.
The strategy, according to him, will continue to be deepened. The idea is to attract Brazilians who work outside the country as well as players of competitive age, capable of raising the level of the team and opening new doors on the international market.
— When you bring in players who have interested clubs, even those who have no connection to Brazil, it changes the perception. Other athletes are asking, they want to know what it looks like, and this opens up the market – he said.
Boto also highlighted what Flamengo offers European players beyond the financial aspect. — It’s a project to win titles, with a different emotion, a purer way of experiencing football. Additionally, the club has resources and facilities equivalent to those of Real Madrid, Benfica or Juventus, he said.
During the interview, the leader projected a symbolic return that pleases red and black supporters: that of Vinicius Junior. For Boto, the Real Madrid striker will return to the club at some point in his career.
— Whoever lives Flamengo creates a love and passion for life. The time will come when he wants to come back. That’s correct.
Finally, the Portuguese spoke about Filipe Luís, considered one of the most promising coaches in Brazilian football. Boto admitted that Flamengo will struggle to keep him in the medium term, but stressed the importance of his stay.
— He is incredibly dedicated, works hard, analyzes his opponents and his own team all the time. After another year here, he will be ready for Europe. But it is important to maintain it, because the entire structure was built around it. If you leave now, it will be difficult to maintain the same path.
About The Author
