Credit: Marcelo Cortes/CRF
After Flamengo’s elimination in the Libertadores, a possible defeat against Botafogo would put Sampaoli at serious risk of dismissal. However, as Rubro-Negro beat their rival 2-1, the coach continues to lead the team. Therefore, in the case of a title in the Copa do Brasil and a worthy campaign in the second round of the Brasileirão, Mauro Cezar does not rule out the captain’s stay for 2024.
Due to the contract that will only end next year, Mauro Cezar avoided proposing Sampaoli’s departure. Even so, the coach needs a practically flawless final stretch of the season to prevent the board from opting for dismissal.
“Only God knows (Flamengo’s future). If Flamengo wins the Copa do Brasil and plays good games until the end of the year, Sampaoli has a contract and it is possible that he will continue. If he plays badly and loses (against Botafogo), he would fall, I think. Now, he has a chance to survive, let’s see how far he goes.”said Mauro Cezar on his YouTube channel.
Recently, Rodolfo Landim, president of Flamengo, supported Sampaoli’s stay. Despite this, the tendency is for the decision of the Copa do Brasil to be crucial for the future of the coach, who has the confidence of the maximum representative.
“Is obvious. We are in the middle of a season and have two decisions to make. Everyone does an assessment at the end of the year.”, said Landim.
As the first game of the final against São Paulo is scheduled for September 17, Sampaoli will have time to correct Flamengo’s mistakes. Next Wednesday (13), in Espírito Santo, the team will face Athletico, a duel that could reduce the distance to Botafogo in the Brasileirão table.
