Why did Leonardo Jardim leave Cruzeiro? | OneFootball

Leonardo Jardim cited family issues for leaving Cruzeiro at the end of 2025

Flamengo has already secured the hiring of Filipe Luís's replacement to lead the red-black team. But why did Leonardo Jardim leave Cruzeiro? The Portuguese coach is expected to sign with the Most Beloved on the morning of this Wednesday (03).

Why did Leonardo Jardim leave Cruzeiro?

It is worth noting that in December 2025, right after the penalty shootout loss to Corinthians in the semifinal of the Copa do Brasil, Leonardo Jardim bid farewell to Cruzeiro in a press conference at Toca da Raposa II. At the time, the Portuguese coach explained that he made the decision due to family reasons.

— These moments are not easy, but we have to be rational. When I came to Cruzeiro, I spent 45 days traveling, my wife was in the hospital. When she was discharged, I came to Cruzeiro. I am part of the project to give my best, not for the salary. It was with Pedrinho's invitation that I dedicated 100%. Fortunately, our contract was until the end of 2025. There was a possibility to leave, I triggered a clause and did not renew for 2026 for reasons that are very personal -, he said, before adding:

— The wear and tear I experienced this year, both personally and professionally. Some professionals advised me to take care of myself. This is not the first time I've done this, I stopped after Monaco as well. The work of a coach cannot be done in any way, it has to be at 200%. I can't give those 100% now. Next year, I will take my team off the field. But I certainly have great gratitude for working at Cruzeiro -, concluded Leonardo Jardim.

Did Cruzeiro try to keep the coach?

Yes! In short, the owner of Cruzeiro's SAF, Pedro Lourenço, even spoke to the press before Leonardo Jardim said goodbye to the club. The team's president addressed the Portuguese coach's decision, emphasizing at the time that he tried to convince the Portuguese to continue leading the Minas Gerais team.

How was the Portuguese's tenure at Cruzeiro?

Under Leonardo Jardim's command, Cruzeiro finished the Brazilian Championship in third place, with 70 points. Additionally, the Portuguese led the team to compete in the Copa Libertadores. Finally, under his leadership, the Minas Gerais club played 55 matches, achieving 25 wins, 18 draws, and 12 losses.

When does Jardim sign with Flamengo?

It should be noted that Leonardo Jardim arrived in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday night (03). Now, this Wednesday (04), the Portuguese is expected to sign a two-year contract, until 2027, with Flamengo.

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