Inside Flamengo’s Portugal camp, reasons for Algarve base and final Benfica test | OneFootball

Flamengo are nearing the end of a two-week training camp in Portugal and rate the stint away from Rio positively. The Algarve has provided calm, strong facilities and a platform for Leonardo Jardim to run tests.

According to Globo.com, the decisive factor was a company-funded invitation that covered all costs. The club used high-quality hotels, gyms and pitches without touching its own budget.

The camp began at the Cascade Wellness Resort in Lagos for week one. Flamengo then switched hotels as another team was due, spending week two in Estoi at a 19th-century palace hotel. Training has been at Estádio Algarve, which hosts all matches.

The working peace has also pleased the staff, since the region offers plenty of quieter areas. Privacy has helped staff, players and families to bond, with some relatives travelling to watch friendlies and explore on days off. The mood has been light, even for youngsters experiencing this for the first time.

Flamengo sought tougher opposition to sharpen preparations, aiming to be ahead of most rivals. River Plate were the last side confirmed, and the team will also face Olimpia on 17 July in Brasília.

Europe offers a bigger shop window for academy players than Argentina, where a camp had been arranged before Portugal’s proposal changed plans. Jardim intends to assess the youngsters and, if not retained, help some seek opportunities abroad.

The final friendly is on Saturday at 15:30 Brasília time against Benfica, then the squad fly back to Rio on Sunday.

Source: Globo.com