Soccer

Gabigol and the Confidence of Filipe Luís: Bet on the attacker's Protagonism at Flamengo

The former colleague and now coach has tried to get the best out of the number 99

07 Out 2024 | 12:47 |

Since taking over technical command of Flamengo, Filipe Luís has made it clear that his priority is to transform the team quickly and efficiently, taking advantage of his vast experience as a player to implement new ideas. One of the central focuses of his initial work is the recovery of Gabriel Barbosa, known as Gabigol. The striker, who has been decisive in many moments, was experiencing a decline in performance under the previous coach, but is beginning to show signs of recovery under the guidance of the new coach.

In interviews and starting lineups, Filipe Luís always highlighted the importance of having Gabigol to recover Flamengo's offensive power. The former full-back believes that the striker's presence in the starting lineup is vital not only for his technical quality, but also for the morale he brings to the group. “The players like having him on the field. He is a leader”, highlighted Filipe Luís after the last match against Corinthians.

FILIPE LUÍS' PARTICIPATION INCREASES COMMITMENT

The bet on Gabigol goes beyond the tactical aspect: Filipe Luís wants the player to regain the confidence that made him one of the most lethal strikers in Brazilian football. With Tite, the attacker seemed disconnected, without the drive that characterized him. Failures in finishing and low mobility caused his protagonism in the team to decrease. However, Filipe sees his former teammate — now his pupil — in a clear process of recovery.

Against Corinthians, Gabigol has already shown a different stance. Although he didn't find the net, his movement was more intense and he almost scored a great goal, showing a reading of the game that seemed dormant in recent months. Furthermore, a goal was disallowed by millimeters, which denotes an improvement compared to the previous period. Filipe Luís analyzed the performance and highlighted: “He came out of inertia. That’s the Gabriel we need.”

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Soccer

Rossi preaches focus on Flamengo despite dreaming of playing for the Argentine national team

The goalkeeper doesn't deny that reaching the current world champion is a goal, but says it's necessary to keep his head in his work at Mengão

Rossi doesn't deny his dream of wearing the Argentine national team shirt, but he urges focus on Flamengo - Photo: Adriano Fontes/Flamengo

16 Set 2025 | 22:00 |

In a press conference at Ninho do Urubu, goalkeeper Agustín Rossi spoke about his desire to be called up to the Argentina national team , the current world champion. Despite his dream, the goalkeeper made it clear that his priority remains Flamengo.

Rossi on his dream of joining the Argentine national team: "My job is for Flamengo"

"Obviously, I've always wanted to be called up. I think Brazilian football is very strong, not only in South America, but worldwide as well. In the last call-up, there were players from here. But I'm not thinking about that right now . I think that if I do my job well, that call-up could come," Rossi stated.

TOTAL FOCUS ON FLAMENGO

The Argentine stressed that he keeps his feet on the ground and that his main goal is to continue showing consistency for the Rubro-Negro , who have the best defense in the Brasileirão, conceding only 10 goals in 22 games. At Maracanã, the Mais Querido conceded only three goals.

"I'm in no rush, because my job is for Flamengo , day to day, game to game. My biggest focus is to maintain this streak so that the call-up can come. Of course I have that desire, but I don't treat it as a requirement . I'm Flamengo's goalkeeper, I'm responsible for Flamengo. If the call-up comes, I'll welcome it," he added.

INCOME AND TITLES WITH THE MANTLE

Since joining Flamengo in 2023, Rossi has already won four titles. Last season, he was a key player in the undefeated Carioca Championship and also played in the Copa do Brasil victory. In 2025, he maintained his starting spot in the Supercopa do Brasil and the Campeonato Estadual . In total, he has represented Flamengo in 125 official matches, establishing himself as a pillar of the team.

Gabigol and the Confidence of Filipe Luís: Bet on the attacker's Protagonism at Flamengo