Jorginho captains Flamengo for first time as dressing-room leadership earns recognition | OneFootball

In the Botafogo derby on Saturday, Jorginho wore the captain’s armband for the first time since joining Flamengo in June 2025, reflecting his growing influence behind the scenes.

The decision did not disrupt the hierarchy. Since Gerson’s departure in July last year, Arrascaeta has led, with duties shared by Bruno Henrique, Alex Sandro and Léo Pereira. With the No 10 on the bench, a centre-back started as captain and passed the armband to Jorginho when he went off 19 minutes into the second half.

Flamengo moved last year to recruit players with European experience to shift dressing-room habits. Danilo, who arrived in February 2025, set the tone by presenting himself as a leader and acting as a conduit between the squad and coach Leonardo Jardim.

Jorginho is less visible publicly yet regarded internally as a leader and example. “I arrived calmly, only wanting the best for everyone. I adapted quickly by understanding how I would play and what the coach wanted, then by learning my team-mates’ characteristics. Day by day you earn that trust, which is very important,” he told ge in November 2025.

He is regularly among the first to arrive and last to leave at Ninho do Urubu, and has been seen working there on rest days, reinforcing a culture of commitment.

Settled quickly in Rio de Janeiro, he earned a starting place and has been one of the most consistent, helping the group absorb the new coach’s ideas.

At 34, he mentors younger team-mates, notably aiding Evertton Araújo, and supported Pedro during the No 9’s 2025 controversies.

He also took over penalties. In 38 matches he has three assists and six goals, all from the spot, converting in major games including the Club World Cup round of 16 against Bayern Munich, Germany, and the Intercontinental Cup final against PSG, France.

Source: Globo.com