Gabriel Barbosa faces a challenging moment in his career at Flamengo. The player was suspended for two years after trying to cheat an anti-doping test, which created uncertainty about his stay at the club. With just one more year left on the contract, renewal has been a topic of discussion for some time.
Flamengo’s president, Rodolfo Landim, adopted a cautious stance regarding Gabigol’s renewal, stating in an interview with CBN that he would leave the matter resolved until the end of the season, even at the risk of losing the player for free. This statement generated questions within the club, with some allies criticizing Landim’s attitude of apparently giving up on the player.
Landim, in turn, responded to criticism from an ally in a WhatsApp group, arguing that the club will not be held hostage by values established by Gabigol, highlighting the financial risks for the player if there is no contract renewal. The conversation was revealed by journalist Raisa Simplicio.
— We are not giving up, we just won’t be held hostage to any value arbitrated by him, far above the market he has to renew. This was the main reason why we did not renew in the past. And no player will lose more if his contract is not renewed than him precisely because he is a great idol. The loss of image that you will have and will be reflected throughout your life will be brutal, I have no doubt about that. — said Landim.
Internally, Gabigol’s renewal is seen as a crucial issue in Flamengo’s election year, being debated by both the president’s allies and the opposition, which is organizing to launch a candidate. Despite the uncertainties and different perspectives within the red-black board, there is still a wing that believes in a positive outcome for the negotiations.
When will Flamengo’s next game be?
In April, Flamengo will face a schedule full of challenges, competing in three different tournaments. Under the command of coach Tite, the team will play matches in the Campeonato Carioca, Copa Libertadores and Campeonato Brasileiro. Check out Flamengo’s schedule for the month of April below:
