Between the pitch and the mic: fans’ frustration with Renato Gaúcho grows | OneFootball

Sequence of Poor Results and Post-Game Interviews Intensify Discomfort; Recent Achievements Are Recognized but Do Not Shield Contested Decisions

Fluminense is experiencing a moment of turmoil, and not just on the field. With a recent streak of results below expectations – four losses in six games, including defeats to Red Bull Bragantino, Bahia (BR), Corinthians, and Lanús – coach Renato Gaúcho finds himself at the center of a storm testing the patience of the already anxious tricolor fans. The discontent is now as present in the team's performance as in the way the coach has addressed controversies in press conferences, creating a chasm of perceptions with the stands.

The recent achievements, such as the semifinals of the Copa do Brasil and the World Championship semifinals, are undeniably recognized. However, for the fans, these credentials cannot serve as a "crutch" for wrong choices and a discourse that, for many, sounds like a "parallel world" compared to what is perceived outside the locker room.

Renato's Justifications: Tactics, Rhythm, and Grounded Approach

In the interview after the defeat to Lanús, Renato Gaúcho sought to explain his decisions. Regarding the substitutions, he defended the removal of Martinelli, whom he believed was tired (although the player later denied it), for the entry of Facundo Bernal, justifying it as a "like-for-like" swap to maintain structure. The entry of Soteldo, or rather: the insistence on Soteldo, has been irritating the stands, who believe the Venezuelan is not in good form (to be subtle in criticism) and that the coach has better options on the bench. Besides the substitutions considered mistaken, the fans also believe the coach makes changes too late in the games. This time, at the 38th minute of the second half, when Cano, Acosta, and Fidélis entered the field to "try" something different. The idea was to "retain the ball a bit more" and even seek victory, a thought that clashed with the goal conceded on the counterattack.

The coach described the game against Lanús as "very contested, tough, tactical," with "few opportunities for both teams," and emphasized the importance of the return match at Maracanã. In his view, controlling the match was a priority, and the result was not entirely out of control.

When questioned about financial comparisons with other clubs, Renato reiterated that "Fluminense has no money," operates "with its feet on the ground," and that the merits of reaching the South American Cup are shared by both Fluminense and Lanús. He also defended the management of new players, like Lezcano, Lavega, and Santi, explaining that, given a sequence of games every three days, attention must be paid to players with game rhythm and "polish" the younger ones to avoid them "falling into the disgrace of some journalists" and suffering premature criticism, citing Arias as an example of adaptation. The maxim "you can't think you know more than the coach" sealed his defense.

The Fans' Counterpoint: Stubbornness, Poor Football, and Repeated Excuses

The fans' perspective, however, diverges radically. The sequence of poor results and the "poor football" presented by the team are the basis of dissatisfaction. Renato's justifications, such as the overload of three competitions (being the only Brazilian team in three competitions) and the lack of money for signings, no longer resonate. The perception is that these excuses have become repetitive and do not match the scenario.

Renato's "stubbornness" is a central point of criticism. The insistence on "the same figures to perform the same functions" in a tactical scheme that, for the fans, does not maximize the squad's potential, generates frustration. The choice of more "experienced" players over young promises with higher performance expectations is seen as a mistake. The situation of reinforcements like Luccho Acosta, Santi Moreno, and even Lezcano and Lavega, who "never play," while the team continues to present mediocre football, deepens the chasm.

The insistence on Soteldo, in particular, irritates the fans, who see other options on the bench. The perplexity increases considering that the team was rested in the previous round against Corinthians and had a FIFA Date for rest and preparation, yet still fails to take off.

Conclusion: The Need for Reconciliation Between Discourse and Results

Renato Gaúcho's Fluminense faces a delicate moment where confidence is at stake. Although the coach presents his tactical logic and squad management, the fans, armed with on-field results and daily perceptions, see a "parallel world." Past successes, although important, cannot be a permanent shield for current choices.

To reverse the situation and reconnect with its passionate fans, Fluminense needs more than explanations: it needs consistent results on the field and a discourse alignment that demonstrates understanding and responsibility. Renato Gaúcho's challenge is to prove that his sometimes controversial logic can, in fact, lead Fluminense to victories and dissipate the growing wave of discontent.

To conclude: obviously, if the team starts winning again, playing well and convincingly, the fans will follow, as will the opinions of journalists and the fans themselves. In reality, everyone wants to celebrate and highlight the coach's achievements and accomplishments. But, also obviously, when things are inversely proportional, the reaction will be too.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.