FLAMENGO IS AT THE TOP OF THE CLUBS THAT LEAST "REST" IN THE CHAMPIONSHIP - CHECK IT OUT

Flamengo secured its place in the final of the Copa do Brasil and, with it, guaranteed at least R$51 million in prizes in the competition . The amount already won by the club totals R$ 19 million, accumulating the amounts from the third phase to the semi-finall. In case of runner-up, Rubro-Negro will have an increase of R$ 31.5 million, totaling R$ 51.05 million. If Flamengo wins the title, the amount received exceeds R$73.5 million, which, added to the amount obtained so far, would take the total prize pool to more than R$90 million. This financial scenario shows the importance of the competition for the club in terms of revenue.

In Flamengo's trajectory in the Copa do Brasil, the Awards are staggered by phase. The club received R$2.205 million in the third phase, followed by R$3.465 million in the round of 16. When advancing to the quarterfinals, there was another R$4.515 million. In the semi-final, the value was R$9.45 million. If the competition finishes in second place, the guaranteed prize pool will be R$ 31.5 million. However, if Filipe Luís manages to lead Flamengo to the title, the club will pocket an additional R$ 73.5 million, consolidating its strength financial benefit that the Copa do Brasil provides.

FLAMENGO HAS BIG IN THEIR HANDS

The technical challenge is also a highlight in this final. Filipe Luís takes on the role of coach at a club that in recent years has experienced a real “game of musical chairs” in charge. In 2022, Dorival Jr. took the reins Flamengo to the Copa do Brasil title in a memorable campaign against Corinthians< /a>. However, in 2023, the club finished runners-up under Jorge Sampaoli, losing the final to São Paulo. Now, Filipe Luís faces his biggest test yet, trying to take the club to the top once again, but this time as head coach.

Despite his short experience ahead from the professional team, Filipe Luís already has a winning record at Flamengo's academy. The former player, who stood out on the field throughout his career, he led the under-17 team to win the Copa Rio and was world champion with the under-20s. These achievements reveal his potential as a coach and explain the trust that the board has placed in him for this crucial moment. The mission, however, is not easy, as the expectations and pressure are immense for a club accustomed to great achievements.

The medical examination carried out revealed that Michael's injury is very similar to the one that sidelined him for 35 days. The Flamengo striker suffered the problem during the match against Bahia, on August 28th. With the injury diagnosed on his right thigh, Michael needed a recovery period that kept him out of action until October 2nd, when he returned to the field in a clash against Corinthians. This return indicated the completion of a cycle of treatment and rehabilitation, which raises some concerns for the club's medical department given the player's recent history.

In addition to Michael, another important member of the squad, Nicolás De La Cruz, also faced problems in the same body region. The Uruguayan midfielder suffered a thigh injury right in the same game against Bahia, in August, and ended up being away for 21 days. Unlike Michael, De La Cruz managed to return earlier, making his official return on September 19, in a decisive Libertadores duel against Peñarol. Since then, the midfielder has participated in six matches, showing signs of a more stable recovery so far. This quick return to the rhythm of the game indicates an efficient recovery process and good physical planning, but does not eliminate the risk of recurrences .

FLAMENGO HAS A HEADACHE 

The similarity between the two players' injuries brings to light the importance of prevention and physical preparation. In cases of recurring injuries, as in thigh, it is essential to thoroughly assess the wear level of athletes, especially in simultaneous competitions and constant travel. Flamengo, aware of the challenges, has invested in improving the management of its medical department and the personalization of training to reduce the chances of new episodes. However, the overload of games, added to the high intensity of competitions, continues to be a constant point of alert for health professionals and club preparation.

MICHAEL AND DE LA CRUZ 

Care must be taken extra at decisive moments of the season, where each absence can influence the team's collective performance. Michael's return against Corinthians was positive, but the risk of a worsening situation cannot be ignored if there is no full recovery. In the case of From La Cruz, his faster return was a positive surprise, but Flamengo still needs to monitor his physical condition carefully to avoid new injuries that could compromise the rest of the season. This monitoring includes a balance between recovery time, specific training and a progressive workload.

Another point worth highlighting is the impact of these injuries on the team's tactical strategy. Flamengo depends on the explosiveness and creativity of both players to open up opposing defenses and create scoring opportunities. Without Michael, the team loses an opportunity for speed and dribbling; Without De La Cruz, the loss is felt in the construction of plays and control of the midfield. Managing these absences becomes crucial for the coach, who needs to find alternative tactical schemes and players capable of temporarily filling these gaps without compromising collective performance.

In an interview with Flatv, Wesley, Flamengo's full-back, denied any type of "feud" with Matheuzinho, who currently plays for Corinthians. During the conversation, the player highlighted the coexistence and healthy competition he had with his former teammate at Rubro-Negro, remembering moments of internal dispute that were fundamental to his growth within the club.

At the beginning, Wesley described his career at Flamengo alongside Matheuzinho, Rodinei and Isla. "He's a guy who, when I came up, was a starter, fought for the position with Rodinei, and still had Isla", commented Wesley, making reference to the 2022 and 2023 scenario. For the full-back, learning from his teammates was essential, mainly because he saw Matheuzinho as a reference. "They were both above me , so I always looked at both of them: 'What does he do to keep playing? I want to be better than him'. It was healthy competition", he explained.

 FLAMENGO HAS A GOOD COMPETITION 

Wesley also took advantage of the interview to detail the close relationship he had with Matheuzinho, reinforcing that there was no room for disagreements "We talked, he did. gave me tips", he said. Theyoung Flamengo athlete highlighted that, even in the face of the natural rivalry of two promises in search of title,both maintained a mutual exchange of knowledge and support, something important for the development technical and professional of both. The full-back highlighted that respect and team spirit have always prevailed, regardless of the situation internal dispute.

Another point raised by Wesley was about the atmosphere of the games at Maracanã, after Matheuzinho had commented on the possible hostility of the fans in the match between Flamengo and Corinthians. Wesley minimized the impact of the pressure coming from the stands and highlighted that the Rio team is already used to dealing with this type of situation. "He said that the atmosphere would be hostile, and it really was. But he has already played here and knows the atmosphere at Maracanã. We are used to this hostile climate, practically every game at Maraca is attended by 60 thousand", said Wesley, highlighting that facing large crowds is part of a Flamengo player's routine.