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Filipe Luís' Flamengo wrapped up its stint in the United States after facing Luis Zubeldía's São Paulo FC on Sunday (19) at Chase Stadium, home of Inter Miami CF, in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The match marked the only game played by Flamengo on American soil during this training period.
The squad, based in Gainesville, FL, prioritized focus during Filipe Luís’ first preseason as head coach of the main team. Over the course of their time in Florida, the team completed nine training sessions, only one of which was open to journalists.
With a reduced squad due to the departures of Fabricio Bruno (sold to Cruzeiro) and David Luiz (free agent), Flamengo relied on several academy players to complete the roster for a season that includes six tournaments. Another defender, Leo Pereira, left the team to return to Brazil after a family bereavement.
The team's only signing so far is 28-year-old forward Juninho, previously playing for Qarabag in Azerbaijan, who did not travel with the delegation to the U.S.
Match Analysis: Flamengo vs. São Paulo
The match against São Paulo brought some surprises. Flamengo’s main squad played the first 45 minutes, with Charles Alcaraz stepping in as a striker due to the absence of Juninho and Pedro (injured). The team displayed good intensity and quality for a preseason opener.
Argentine goalkeeper Rossi was a standout, making a crucial save on a header from Jonathan Calleri. Midfielder Erick Pulgar and right-back Wesley also impressed, with Wesley reportedly receiving transfer offers from European clubs.
In the second half, Filipe Luís substituted all 11 players, fielding several academy prospects, including 18-year-old defensive midfielder Pablo Lucio, who delivered an impressive performance in his professional debut.
Upcoming Matches and Tournaments
Now back in Brazil, Flamengo is set to debut its main squad in the Rio de Janeiro State Championship on January 25 against Volta Redonda. The U20 team, which played in the state championship during the preseason, currently ranks near the bottom of the standings.
On February 2, Flamengo will travel to northern Brazil to face Botafogo, the reigning Brazilian and Copa Libertadores champion, in the Supercopa do Brasil. This match officially kicks off the national season for Brazilian clubs.
Later this year, Flamengo will return to the U.S. to compete in the FIFA Club World Cup, scheduled between June and July. Flamengo will face Esperance (TUN) and Chelsea (ENG) at Lincoln Financial Field before playing Club León (MEX) at Camping World Stadium in Orlando during the group stage.
