A Portuguese Prodigy’s Global Ambitions
Artur jorge, the celebrated Portuguese coach, recently acknowledged his aspiration to lead one of Portugal’s ”Big Three” clubs - FC Porto, Benfica, or Sporting CP – in the future. This declaration came during a ceremony where he was honored with the prestigious Quinas de Ouro award, recognizing his remarkable achievements in 2024.
Jorge,who steered Botafogo to both the Brazilian Serie A title and the Copa Libertadores,emphasized that while coaching one of these Portuguese giants is a long-term goal,his immediate focus lies elsewhere. He is currently contracted with Botafogo until december 2025 and is committed to pursuing winning opportunities outside of Portugal.
“My contract with botafogo runs until December 2025, so it’s premature to discuss my future,” Jorge stated. “However, I am dedicated to being part of prosperous projects, and my options remain open.”
While a return to portugal isn’t on the horizon for Jorge, he offered insightful observations on the current state of Portuguese football. He noted the intense competition among the “Big Three,” with several coaching changes adding to the dynamic landscape.
Drawing parallels with the Brazilian league, where six Portuguese coaches began the 2024 season and only two remained by its conclusion, jorge highlighted the cyclical nature of coaching careers.
Jorge’s remarkable success in Brazil has earned him international recognition.He is a finalist for the 2024 Best Coach in America award, alongside esteemed figures like Lionel Scaloni, Gustavo Alfaro, Diego Aguirre, and Gustavo Costas.
reflecting on his achievements, Jorge expressed gratitude for the accolades he has received, including the 2024 Brasileirão Coach of the Year award. He also acknowledged the importance of his early success with Sporting Braga, winning the Taça da Liga in January before embarking on his Brazilian adventure.
The Quinas de Ouro ceremony was a testament to Jorge’s remarkable journey. Fernando Gomes,president of the Portuguese Football Federation,praised Jorge’s extraordinary achievements and highlighted the federation’s successful investment in youth development programs,which played a crucial role in Jorge’s rise.
Ricardo Rio, Mayor of Braga, Jorge’s hometown, expressed immense pride in the coach’s accomplishments, emphasizing the rarity of his success at such a young age. Pedro Dias, Secretary of state for Sport, commended Jorge’s dedication to continuous learning and development throughout his 15-year coaching career.
Brazilian Triumph, Portuguese Dreams: an Exclusive Interview with artur Jorge
Welcome back, football fanatics, to “Inside the Dugout”! Today, we have a very special guest, the brilliant young Portuguese coach making waves across the Atlantic: Artur Jorge. Artur, welcome to the show!
Artur:
Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Moderator:
the football world is abuzz with your recent success at Botafogo. Securing both the Brazilian Serie A title and the Copa Libertadores is no small feat. how does it feel to reach such heights so early in your career?
Artur:
It’s certainly been an incredible journey. When I arrived at Botafogo, I knew we had the potential to achieve great things, but to win both the league and the copa Libertadores in a single season exceeded even my wildest expectations. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team, from the players and coaching staff to the support staff and the passionate Botafogo fans.
Moderator:
Your success hasn’t gone unnoticed. You’re now a finalist for the prestigious Best Coach in America award, competing against coaching giants like Lionel Scaloni. What does this recognition mean to you?
Artur:
To be considered among such esteemed figures in the coaching world is a true honor. It’s humbling to be recognized for the work we’ve done at botafogo, and it motivates me to strive for even greater achievements.
Moderator:
Speaking of greater achievements, you’ve publicly expressed your ambition to coach one of Portugal’s “Big Three” clubs—FC Porto, Benfica, or Sporting CP—in the future. What draws you to these clubs?
Artur:
they are the giants of Portuguese football, clubs with rich histories, passionate fan bases, and a hunger for success. It’s a challenge I aspire to one day embrace.
Moderator:
You’ve mentioned that coaching one of the “Big Three” is a long-term goal. Your immediate focus is on Botafogo,
where you’re contracted until December 2025. Is there any chance we might see you back in Portugal before then?
Artur:
Right now, my commitment is to Botafogo. We have built something special here, and I’m steadfast to see it through. After that, we’ll see what the future holds.
Moderator:
You’ve witnessed the intense competition in both the Brazilian and Portuguese leagues. What are your thoughts on the current state of Portuguese football, and how does it compare to the Brazilian game?
Artur:
Portuguese football is experiencing a period of exciting change. The Big Three are constantly pushing each other to new heights, and the emergence of talented young coaches is refreshing to see.
The Brazilian league, however, is a different beast altogether. It’s incredibly passionate and competitive, with a unique tactical flavor.
Moderator:
You’ve spoken about the cyclical nature of coaching careers,noting the coaching changes in both the Brazilian and Portuguese leagues. What advice would you give to young coaches entering this challenging profession?
Artur:
Be prepared for the highs and lows. This profession demands resilience, adaptability, and a constant desire to learn and evolve. Surround yourself with a strong team, trust your instincts, and never stop believing in yourself.
Moderator:
This has been a fascinating conversation,Artur.thank you for sharing your insights with us. We wish you continued success in Brazil and beyond.
Artur:
The pleasure was all mine.
We hope you enjoyed this exclusive interview with Artur Jorge. We’d love to hear your thoughts on his incredible journey and his ambitions for the future. Share your comments below and let the discussion begin!
