Jardim underlines focus on Flamengo academy after 3-0 Coritiba win | OneFootball

According to Coluna Do Fla, Flamengo beat Coritiba 3-0 in their final outing before the World Cup pause, and Leonardo Jardim underlined his focus on the club’s academy amid multiple call-ups.

The 18th-round victory came despite a lengthy absentee list. Léo Ortiz asked to come off after 15 minutes, and João Victor stepped in to partner Vitão, with the back line holding firm.

Jardim said giving attention to homegrown players has been a hallmark of his career. With games every three days, he noted there had been limited chances in the first team, but staff had closely analysed sub-20 performances. He added that João Victor has featured regularly at that level and trained with the senior squad last year.

The coach explained he weighed bringing on Saul and dropping a midfielder into defence, or trusting a youngster. He prefers not to change positions, and told João Victor to play his football.

Jardim said he thinks the defender delivered a good display, and described him as among the best young centre-backs in Brazilian football. He hopes this proves a first step towards more minutes.

The squad are now on holiday during the World Cup break. They will report back on 19 June at Ninho do Urubu before travelling to Portugal for a mid-season camp, and are due to face Chapecoense on 22 July in round 19 of the Brasileirão.

Source: Coluna Do Fla