Flamengo back on track as Jardim’s rotating core delivers Carioca title and clean-sheet run | OneFootball

Flamengo have steadied under Leonardo Jardim, banking two wins, the Carioca title and three clean sheets across his first three matches.

According to Globo.com, the early-2026 turmoil that cost Filipe Luís his job is easing. Jardim has leaned on a settled spine, rotating two or three players for strategy or rest, and the upturn has lifted confidence at the Ninho do Urubu despite lingering frustration over past criticism and some board decisions.

Defender Léo Pereira said there is no magic, noting how narratives swing with results. In his six years he has not seen a group lacking commitment, stressing that while squads change, hard work and trophies have remained. He accepted there will be fluctuations, urged understanding from fans, and said the team expect scrutiny and will respond through work.

The 3-0 win at Botafogo in Nilton Santos was the clearest display of the Jardim era so far. Flamengo controlled the derby even before Barboza’s late first-half red card and could have won by more, with players interchanging positions rather than holding fixed roles.

Samuel Lino said the coach encourages freedom to move and swap positions, provided someone covers the space, which has helped attackers appear in different zones.

The victory took Flamengo to 10 points and into the G-4 despite a game in hand. Jardim’s side host Remo at 20:00, Brasília time, on Thursday at the Maracanã.

Source: Globo.com