Flamengo coach Leonardo Jardim named among Madeira’s most important figures | OneFootball

Flamengo coach Leonardo Jardim has been named among the 50 most important figures in Madeira’s history, according to Coluna Do Fla.

The Atlantic archipelago, which is politically part of Portugal, has about 250,000 residents. That sense of identity helps explain the significance of Jardim’s recognition.

Although born in Venezuela, his academic and professional journey began on Madeira. He earned a degree in Physical Education at the University of Madeira, then joined the coaching staff at AD Camacha.

His career took him to Olympiacos, Monaco, Al Hilal and Cruzeiro before arriving at Flamengo. Jardim’s honours include the Asian Champions League, the French league and the Saudi league.

He has also been a formative figure in the careers of Mbappé, Bernardo Silva and Berbatov.

Jardim is under contract until the end of 2027 and has the backing of Bap, the president, and José Boto, the director of football. The main aims are to win the Libertadores and/or the Brasileirão this season.

Notably, he claimed a trophy on debut, taking charge for the Campeonato Carioca final against Fluminense and winning it. Afterwards he stressed that Flamengo must always play to win, that victory is fundamental, and that there is still work to build a competent team.

His pedigree and determination have raised expectations among the Flamengo fanbase for an attacking, dominant side that can deliver silverware.

Source: Coluna Do Fla