Flamengo’s hidden plan revealed by José Boto | OneFootball

According to Globo, Flamengo’s executive director of football José Boto has provided an in-depth review of his first six months at the Rio club, addressing the challenges of adapting to Brazilian football, the rationale behind recent contract policies, and the competitive state of the current squad.

Boto, who arrived from Portugal already acquainted with football’s high demands, describes his initial months in Brazil as exceptionally intense but ultimately positive. "When you win every trophy available, lead the Brazilian league, advance in the Libertadores, and have a strong Club World Cup campaign, it’s hard to want much more," Boto said, acknowledging both success and the unrelenting pace of life at Flamengo.

A notable topic in the interview was Flamengo’s decision to reduce release clauses in recent contract renewals, specifically for midfielders Gerson and Erick Pulgar. Boto explained that the club’s intention is to set buyout values that realistically reflect player worth in the current market and minimize disruptive transfer speculation. "If you put a €200 million clause, you’re just inviting negotiations every window," he stated. “By setting a mutually agreed value, if someone wants the player and meets the clause, the process is clear—no drawn-out discussions." For reference, Gerson’s clause now stands at €25 million, Pulgar’s at €50 million (dropping to €15 million in 2026). Boto added, “No club pays up front anymore—so receiving the full sum at once is a big advantage.”

Reflecting on his adaptation, Boto noted cultural nuances—both trivial and profound—ranging from dietary habits to professional priorities. He identified work ethic and dedication as critical, seeking to instill higher levels of daily commitment across all staff. “Being at Flamengo should be the most important thing in our lives. The coach and director shouldn’t be the only ones working long hours; everyone needs to match that commitment.” Although he feels the environment has shifted closer to his expectations, “we’re at 90%—the goal is 100%.”

Boto also addressed reports of interest in Flamengo’s top players. While acknowledging a conversation with Cruz Azul’s director about Arrascaeta (which ended with Boto citing the sizeable buyout clause and reiterating the club’s lack of intention to sell), he clarified that there have been no substantial approaches for other stars like Rossi.

On competitiveness, Boto believes Flamengo’s current squad is strong, citing minimal need for major signings—three players arrived in the last window—as a reflection of squad depth and fiscal realities. He noted that fixture congestion and travel create unique challenges in Brazil, impacting preparation and the quality of play, suggesting that improvements to the calendar and pitch conditions could elevate the league's global profile further.

Touching on perceptions from Europe, Boto said that Flamengo’s style—maintaining a dominant approach even against top opponents—was praised by figures such as Arsène Wenger. “He told me we played the most attractive football he’d seen at the tournament,” Boto revealed, while also highlighting that tactical sophistication in Brazilian football has pleasantly surprised European observers.

Overall, Boto sees a club demanding total commitment but offering the platform for genuine success. “The pressure is immense—media and fan scrutiny here is beyond even the biggest European clubs—but it’s also what drives improvement.”

Sources: Globo

Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images