REMEMBER HIM? EX-FLAMENGO AND BOTAFOGO COACH AGREE WITH THIGH

The Sinergia Rubro-Negra Group (SRN), made up of influential partners from Flamengo, held a meeting last Saturday (7), at the club's headquarters, located in Gávea. The main objective of the meeting was to promote fraternization among the participants, but, inevitably, club politics ended up dominating the discussions throughout the event.

The main topic that emerged during the meeting was the support of the SRN to Rodrigo Dunshee's candidacy for president of Flamengo. Dunshee, who currently holds the position of general and legal vice-president of the club, is a prominent figure in the red-black political scene. The group, made up of members who share an aligned vision regarding the club's management, sees in Dunshee a name prepared to take over Flamengo's leadership, especially considering the upcoming electoral cycle.

FLAMENGO HAS A NEW DIRECTION IN THE ELECTIONS

During the event, members of the SRN highlighted Dunshee's role in the current administration, remembering that he was a fundamental player in several legal achievements of the Flamengo in recent years. The group believes that his experience and proximity to the club's internal processes make him the ideal candidate to succeed current president Rodolfo Landim, whose tenure ends at the end of his term. 

Although the initial objective of the meeting was a celebration between the partners, it was inevitable that the conversations turned to Flamengo's political future. The club's presidential elections are approaching, and political groups are already beginning to articulate support and strategies. The SRN, being a strong group within the red-black political structure, has stood out for its organization and capacity to mobilize members.

Those present discussed, among other topics, the possible implications of a possible Dunshee's candidacy. His name has been circulating among members for some time, but now, with the explicit support of the SRN, his candidacy is gaining strength. The members highlighted that Dunshee is a name of continuity, someone who is already part of the current management and deeply knows the challenges and needs of the club. This, in the group's view, represents a positive point, as Dunshee could continue the projects started under the Landim administration.

Flamengo continues to debate whether to look for a replacement for Pedro, a striker who is recovering from an injury. The decision is complex, involving several variables ranging from the financial cost to the availability of players on the market. One of the main points under discussion is the high cost of a possible replacement. The club is aware that signing a center forward may require a significant investment, something that needs to be carefully evaluated within the team's current budget.

In addition, Flamengofaces the challenge of downtime of players available on the market. Many of the center forwards who are free for transfer come from long periods without playing, with recent injuries or prolonged absence from the field. This situation represents a risk, as the integration of a player who is not in the rhythm of the game may take longer and be less effective initially.

FLAMENGO HAS "WORRIES" AT THE MOMENT

The club is also considering the limited number of viable options on the market. The scarcity of attackers who meet the criteria required by Flamengo – both in terms of quality and physical readiness – is a factor that further complicates the search for a suitable replacement. 

In this scenario, the management of Flamengo assesses whether signing a new player is the best solution or whether there are viable alternatives to deal with Pedro's absence, such as adjusting the tactical formation or promoting youth players. The final decision is still being studied, and the club needs to carefully consider all aspects before making a decision.

Flamengo is moving intensely behind the scenes during this first transfer window of 2024. It is not just about new arrivals, but also a reorganization of the current squad. The club is involved in negotiations and plans to relocate some players to strengthen the team for next season.

The name that emerges as a possible departure is right-back Mateusinho. The player is in the sights of other clubs, and Flamengo is evaluating the possibility of trading him. This movement is expected to be the first in a series of changes in the sector. Wesley is another name that is on the radar of several European clubs, with emphasis on Crystal Palace, from England, under the management of John Textor.

Flamengo, aware of the interest, is analyzing the feasibility of an investment long-term at right-back. However, the final decision will only be made with confirmation of the player's departure. The young right-back Natanael, who currently plays for Coritiba, appears as a possible alternative.

With negotiations between Mateusinho and Wesley underway, the Flamengo board is considering an offer for the player. It is worth noting that the athlete attracts interest from other clubs, such as São Paulo and RB Bragantino. São Paulo and RB Bragantino expressed interest in counting on Natanael's services.

The team from Paraná, which was relegated this year, is not considering loaning the player, even though the proposal includes a mandatory purchase clause . Coritiba's stance shows its determination to maintain control over its squad, even in the face of tempting proposals.

Flamengo is attentive to movements in the transfer market, seeking to reinforce and optimize the squad for next season. The right-back is a prominent position, with possible changes involving key players. The decision to trade or not will depend on the final movements and exit confirmations. The search for alternatives, such as young Natanael, highlights the club's strategy of maintaining a competitive squad adapted to the demands of contemporary football.