Understand why Sampaoli is not looking for right-back reinforcements at Flamengo.
Despite Flamengo fans asking for reinforcements for the right-back position, coach Sampaoli believes that it is much more urgent to carry out a replacement in midfield.
Flamengo’s right wing has faced a period of uncertainty regarding the holder, which has led fans to demand reinforcements for the position. However, Jorge Sampaoli, the Argentine coach, does not consider the signing of a right back as his highest priority. He believes that strengthening the midfield is a more pressing issue for the team.
Sampaoli praises Wesley’s depth and awaits Matheuzinho’s return
Coach Sampaoli values the deep ability conquered by Wesley and is also excited with the expectation of counting on the return of Matheuzinho. Both players have the ability to reach the back of the field and have a good crossing as one of their main characteristics. Recently, Sampaoli gave Varela an opportunity, casting him in the starting line-up in Wesley’s absence, in the clash against Ñublense, last Wednesday.
Sampaoli highlights confidence in Wesley, Matheuzinho’s return and Varela’s evolution.
After the game against Corinthians, coach Sampaoli expressed his confidence in Wesley, anxiety for Matheuzinho’s return and also praised Varela’s performance. However, Sampaoli stressed that, for the moment, he is directing his attention to other positions in the team that need reinforcements more urgently.
Profit potential with Wesley and Matheuzinho arouses interest from Flamengo
Wesley and Matheuzinho, despite facing ups and downs, are players with whom Flamengo hopes to obtain financial benefits. Both stood out in the club’s youth categories. Earlier this year, Wesley received a loan proposal from Barcelona, however, Vítor Pereira, coach of Flamengo, chose not to release him. On the other hand, Matheuzinho is recovering from a tibia fracture in his left leg and is expected to return to the pitch in July. The club from Rio sees potential in both players for future negotiations aimed at a favorable financial return.
Flamengo seeks reinforcements for the next window, prioritizing midfielders and a defender
Flamengo is looking for new players to strengthen its squad in the next download window. Coach Sampaoli expressed a desire to sign between three to five players. One of Sampaoli’s desires was a winger to play on the right, and Luiz Araújo was hired to fill that position.
However, the club’s current priority is on midfielders Allan and De La Cruz, whose names are highlighted to reinforce the team. In addition, Flamengo has not ruled out the possibility of hiring a third player for the sector and is also targeting the hiring of a defender.
Flamengo seeks to strengthen sides to balance the squad
At the moment, Flamengo is especially attentive to the left-back position due to the scarcity of options. Ayrton Lucas has been overloaded in 2023, while Filipe Luís, despite his technical quality and the affection of the fans, has faced frequent physical problems due to his advanced age, at 37 years old.
As for the right side, the club is open to market opportunities aimed at hiring a new player. Flamengo has in mind the example of previous signings, such as Rafinha and Filipe Luís, who were acquired in the mid-year window in 2019, and became key players in winning Libertadores and the Brazilian Championship. The ability to find important players at that time reinforced the club’s intention to balance and strengthen its squad in search of new achievements.