In a podcast interview In the Beginning It Was the Ballfrom the newspaper Express Tribune from Portugal, Flamengo’s football director, José Boto, highlighted the difference between the clubs when it comes to the transition of players from the base to the main team. Boto stated that Palmeiras is more advanced in this aspect, but highlighted that the pressure faced by Flamengo is much more intense.
“Palmeiras is ahead, not because it has better players, but because of the way it makes the transition to the professional. But, at Flamengo, the pressure is different. Palmeiras, despite its greatness, does not have the greatness of Flamengo. We are not talking about the player not being ready, but rather the absurd criticism on social media, even from the player’s mother”, criticized Boto, citing the example of defender João Victor, who made a notable error in two games with the professional team. “He has great potential, but that mistake could affect the confidence of any young player,” he added.
Challenges for 2026 and focus on experience
Boto also commented on the challenges for the 2026 season, highlighting that, despite the achievements of 2025, Flamengo will face great demands. “It will be more difficult to repeat what we did, because the fans and the press will demand even more, even when there are no more titles to win,” he said.
The director indicated that the cast will undergo occasional adjustments, but ruled out major changes to the team. “The concern is to give the players an adequate vacation so that they can recover mentally. We don’t want a revolution in the team, just calm adjustments,” he stated.
The European market as a priority
Regarding the signing market, Boto explained that Flamengo has focused more on the European market, as the South American market does not offer as many options ready for the pressure that the club requires. “Players with more background and experience deal better with the pressure of Maracanã and the constant media”, added the director, reaffirming that the club seeks to bring a more European culture into Flamengo.
*With information from Estadão Conteúdo
