Leonardo Jardim flags Flamengo fitness issues despite 2-0 win over Cruzeiro | OneFootball

After Flamengo's 2-0 win over Cruzeiro on Wednesday 11 March, Leonardo Jardim said several players remain short of peak fitness. He argued that if the squad were at their best, results would have been different and there would not have been a change of coach.

According to Coluna Do Fla, the head coach linked the issue to injuries and the early stage of the season. He stressed demanding work and attitude from the group, noting that both starters and substitutes have been heavily challenged.

Jardim said he made three changes and then added players to sharpen transitions as Cruzeiro pushed forward. One of those moves produced the second goal, which left him satisfied with the approach. He added that only a cohesive, competitive and deep squad can cope with multiple competitions, and that everyone who features must have his trust.

Flamengo dismissed Filipe Luís in the early hours of three March, after an 8-0 win over Madureira that sealed a place in the Carioca final. Jardim was already in charge for the state decider.

The Cruzeiro match also reunited Jardim with his former club. He coached them in 2025 and left at the end of that season, citing personal reasons to terminate his deal.

Flamengo return to training at Ninho do Urubu on Thursday 12 as preparations turn to Botafogo. The city derby is on Saturday 14 at Estádio Nilton Santos, kick-off 20:30 Brasília time, in round six of the Brasileirão.

Source: Coluna Do Fla