Soccer

Zico criticizes the use of synthetic grass in the national championship "It's a problem..."

Flamengo idol points out injury risks and questions the use of artificial pitch in national competitions in 2025

: Zico criticizes synthetic grass and Flamengo players reinforce concerns about risks and impact on performance. (Photo/Reproduction)
: Zico criticizes synthetic grass and Flamengo players reinforce concerns about risks and impact on performance. (Photo/Reproduction)

27 Mar 2025 | 13:51 |

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Zico, one of Flamengo 's greatest idols and a reference in Brazilian football, has once again spoken out against the use of synthetic grass in the country. In an interview with the channel “AchismosTV” in March 2025, the former player highlighted the risks of this type of field for athletes, especially in relation to injuries. According to the eternal number 10 of Mengão, artificial grass increases the severity of injuries and compromises the quality of the game. “ Injuries on synthetic grass become much more serious. It's a problem. The whole world no longer has synthetic fields. Why does Brazil, which is a five-time champion, have them?”, asked Zico.


In addition to the physical aspect, the former midfielder criticized the economic justification used by some clubs for adopting artificial turf. “Synthetic pitches are not for football, they are for shows,” he said, reinforcing his opinion that the spectacle within the four lines should be a priority. Flamengo has already faced difficulties when playing in stadiums with synthetic grass. In the 2024 Brasileirão, the team played at Allianz Parque, against Palmeiras, and at Estádio Nilton Santos, against Botafogo, both with artificial grass.


PLAYERS ALSO SPEAK OUT ON THE TOPIC


The installation of synthetic grass at the MRV Arena, Atlético Mineiro's stadium, has reignited the debate about its presence in Brazilian football. Athletes such as Gerson, Arrascaeta and Everton Cebolinha have also expressed concern about the effects of this material on the players' performance and health . For the athletes, the difference in the way the ball rolls and the greater strain on the joints are factors that can impair performance and increase the risk of injuries. This concern has been shared by professionals from several elite teams in the national football league.

FUTURE OF LAWNS IN BRAZIL


The debate over synthetic grass continues to divide opinions. While some clubs defend the adoption of the material for reasons of maintenance and durability, former players, active athletes and experts warn of the negative impacts on the sport. The debate promises to continue, especially with the trend of more Brazilian stadiums adopting artificial grass.

However, pressure from players and coaches may influence future decisions on regulating this type of surface in national competitions. Despite differing opinions, one thing is unanimous among those who have already played on the field: Brazilian football must always prioritize the quality of the game and the safety of its athletes.


Soccer

With Europe's harassment, Flamengo tries to speed up the renewal with Filipe Luís

Brazilian coach rules out leaving for Turkey, remains focused on the Mais Querido project and should sign a new contract renewal soon

Filipe Luís rejects Fenerbahçe's offer and is expected to renew his contract with Mengão, keeping his focus on Flamengo's project - photo: reproduction
Filipe Luís rejects Fenerbahçe's offer and is expected to renew his contract with Mengão, keeping his focus on Flamengo's project - photo: reproduction

13 Set 2025 | 16:18 |

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As initially revealed by journalists Rodrigo Mattos and Bruno Braz, Turkey's Fenerbahçe presented an official proposal to Filipe Luís's staff following José Mourinho's dismissal. The Turkish team positively evaluated the Brazilian coach's work and signaled financial compensation.


However, Filipe Luís quickly decided not to accept the offer. The board, led by Bap, along with the football department led by José Boto, acted behind the scenes to prevent the coach's loss.


After a year at the helm, Filipe Luís has won titles, worked consistently, and maintained a firm stance in leading the team. One of the most talked-about cases was Pedro's, which the coach resolved efficiently , reinforcing his internal management capabilities.


FLAMENGO PRESENTS PROPOSAL

According to Mônica Alves, the Rio de Janeiro club has already submitted a contract renewal proposal to Filipe Luís. The agreement is expected to be signed soon. Initially, the new contract will last for one more season, with the possibility of a two-year extension. Despite the financial compensation offered by Fenerbahçe, the coach preferred to continue working in Rio de Janeiro.


FLAMENGO REMAINS FOCUSED ON THE MATCHES

While negotiating the renewal, Rubro-Negro prepares for the 23rd round of the Brasileirão Betano Série A. Flamengo faces Juventude this Sunday (14), at 4 pm (Brasília time), at the Alfredo Jaconi Stadium, in Caxias do Sul.


Soccer

Gerson makes decision about possible return to Flamengo

After a turbulent departure to Zenit, Gerson faces difficulties in Russia, is left out of the national team and has his return to Mengão ruled out by the board

Gerson faces dissatisfaction at Zenit, is left out of the Brazilian National Team and returns to Flamengo - photo: reproduction
Gerson faces dissatisfaction at Zenit, is left out of the Brazilian National Team and returns to Flamengo - photo: reproduction

13 Set 2025 | 16:06 |

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After the Club World Cup, Flamengo sold Gerson to Zenit St. Petersburg for €25 million. The deal was mired in controversy: the Rio de Janeiro board was angered by the player's and his agent's behavior during the negotiations. As a result, the midfielder was removed from the club's digital museum, a move that caused a stir on social media.


Gerson isn't in great form at Zenit . He was left out of the Brazilian national team's last call-up and has only played six matches in the current Russian Championship. Behind-the-scenes reports indicate that the player is unhappy with his situation in Russian football.


BAP RULES OUT RETURN


According to journalist Fabrício Lopes, Gerson has not requested a return to Mengão and intends to turn things around at Zenit , where he has a contract until mid-2030. The same investigation indicates that Luiz Eduardo Baptista (BAP), president of the club's Board of Directors, does not consider opening the door for the number 8's return.

BOTO WORKS FOR RENEWALS


While Gerson continues his journey in Russian football, the Mais Querido board is focusing its efforts on specific renewals . José Boto is working to extend Uruguayan Giorgian De Arrascaeta's contract until 2028.

Furthermore, the manager is trying to unlock negotiations with Filipe Luís to ensure his continued coaching tenure . The initial offer was rejected, and the coach is demanding a salary increase to extend his contract.


Soccer

Internacional is sentenced and must pay million-dollar debt to Flamengo for Thiago Maia

CNRD orders Internacional to pay off debt of 1.47 million euros owed to Mais Querido by Thiago Maia, after Colorado's appeal was denied

Internacional is condemned by the CNRD and must pay more than R$9 million to Flamengo for Thiago Maia after appeal is denied - photo: reproduction
Internacional is condemned by the CNRD and must pay more than R$9 million to Flamengo for Thiago Maia after appeal is denied - photo: reproduction

13 Set 2025 | 15:51 |

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The dispute between Internacional and Flamengo over Thiago Maia's debt has entered a new chapter. According to information released by journalist Venê Casagrande, the Rio Grande do Sul club suffered another defeat at the National Chamber for Dispute Resolution (CNRD) , after having its "request for clarification" denied.


According to Venê Casagrande, Colorado still has the option of appealing to the Arbitration Chamber . However, this procedure is often costly and, in most cases, does not change decisions already made by the CNRD. Therefore, Flamengo is closely monitoring the case's developments and hopes to receive the amounts owed directly from Internacional.


The decision requires Internacional to pay €1,472,588.33 (approximately R$9 million at the current exchange rate) for the breach of contract involving Thiago Maia. In addition, the Rio Grande do Sul club must pay R$51,211.99 in legal costs.


NEGOTIATION WITH SANTOS

Back in 2025, during a transfer window, Santos tried to sign Thiago Maia . However, the deal ended up not moving forward precisely because of this legal dispute between Internacional and Flamengo .


ABOUT THAT...

While the board moves behind the scenes, Flamengo focuses its efforts on the next matches of the 2025 season. In the 23rd round of the Brasileirão Betano Série A, the Rio de Janeiro team faces Juventude this Sunday (14), at the Alfredo Jaconi Stadium . Soon after, Mengão faces Estudiantes in the Libertadores, on the 18th.



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