Flamengo’s New Era: Bap Sets Sights on Brazilian Championship Glory
After six years under Rodolfo Landim’s leadership, Flamengo welcomes a new president: Luiz Eduardo Baptista, known as Bap.A seasoned member of the club’s board, Bap will now take the helm, with a clear mission: to reclaim the Brazilian Championship title, a feat the team hasn’t achieved in four years.
The Rubro-Negro enjoyed a golden period under Landim, securing back-to-back Brazilian Championship titles in 2019 and 2020. However,since then,the coveted trophy has eluded them. Their closest attempt was in 2021, where they finished a respectable second, but still trailed significantly behind champions Atlético-MG, who amassed 84 points compared to Flamengo’s 71.
Recent seasons have seen Flamengo struggle to maintain their dominance in the Brazilian Championship. In 2024, they secured a third-place finish with 70 points, while 2023 and 2022 saw them place fourth and fifth respectively.
Bap has wasted no time in outlining his ambitions, emphasizing the Brazilian Championship as the club’s top priority. this aligns perfectly with the vision of head coach Filipe Luís, who has consistently stressed the importance of focusing on the domestic league.”We understand the need for clear sporting goals. After the election, we will make it abundantly clear that the Brazilian Championship is our priority,” Bap stated during a debate hosted by ESPN. “We aim for South American dominance, view the Copa do Brasil as a psychological boost, and will utilize the transfer window strategically.”
Echoing Bap’s sentiments, Filipe Luís declared in November 2024, “As long as I’m here, the Brazilian Championship will always be our absolute priority. It’s the most challenging tournament, demanding consistency and resilience through various phases, including FIFA breaks and travel. It’s the toughest title to win,and one I cherish having won as a player.”
While the Brazilian Championship takes center stage, Bap acknowledges the demanding schedule that awaits Flamengo in 2025. In addition to the Carioca Championship, Copa do Brasil, and Libertadores, the team will also compete in the Supercopa do Brasil against Botafogo and the revamped 32-team FIFA Club World Cup.
This packed calendar presents a significant challenge,but Bap’s unwavering focus on the Brazilian Championship signals a renewed determination to bring the coveted trophy back to the Maracanã.
Flamengo’s new Chapter: Can Bap Bring Back the Brazilian Title?
welcome back to the show, everyone! Today, we’re diving into the heart of Brazilian football, specifically the ambitious new era dawning at flamengo under the leadership of luiz Eduardo baptista, affectionately known as Bap. Joining me today is none other than zinho, legendary midfielder for brasil and a genuine icon of the beautiful game. Zinho, welcome to the show!
Zinho: thanks for having me! Always a pleasure to discuss the beautiful game, especially when it involves a club as passionate and historic as Flamengo.
Moderator: Absolutely! Bap certainly has his work cut out for him. Flamengo haven’t lifted the Brazilian Championship trophy in four years,a drought they’ll desperately want to end. Do you think Bap has what it takes to lead them back to glory?
Zinho: Bap has been a part of the Flamengo board for some time now, so he knows the club inside and out. He’s clearly identified the Brazilian Championship as a top priority, and that focus is crucial. However, it’s not just about ambition; it’s about execution. Flamengo needs to build a squad capable of sustaining a title challenge across a grueling season.
Moderator: You make a good point. Recent seasons have seen Flamengo struggle notably against Atlético-MG in the title race. They finished a distant second back in 2021, with Atlético racking up a impressive 84 points. Do you think Bap has a plan to counteract Atlético’s dominance?
Zinho: Atlético is a formidable opponent, no doubt. But football is cyclical; teams rise and fall. Flamengo needs to focus on themselves, strengthen strategically in key positions, and cultivate a winning mentality within the squad. It’s about consistency and ruthless efficiency throughout the season.
Moderator: Speaking of consistency, Flamengo also faces a packed schedule in 2025, juggling domestic trophies like the Copa do Brasil and the State Championship with the demands of continental competitions like the Libertadores and the revamped Club World cup. How do you think Filape Luís, the head coach, will manage these competing priorities?
Zinho: It’s a tough balancing act, without a doubt. While Bap has rightly emphasized the brazilian championship, Luis will need to utilize rotation effectively, particularly in the early rounds of these other competitions. Flamengo has a deep squad, andLuis has proven himself a capable tactician. I’m confident he can navigate these challenges.
Moderator: A lot is resting on Luis’ shoulders, especially given his own vocal commitment to the Brazilian championship. Do you think his coaching style and experience are the right fit for this new era at Flamengo?
Zinho: Luís brings a winning mentality. He knows what it takes to succeed in the Brazilian league,having won it as a player himself. He understands the pressure, the intensity, the sheer passion. He’s also shown he’s not afraid to make tough decisions. I think he’s the ideal leader for this Flamengo squad.
Moderator: It’s going to be fascinating watching Bap and Luís shape flamengo’s future. What advice would you give them as they embark on this challenging yet exciting new chapter?
Zinho: To Bap, I’d say: be decisive, trust your instincts, and remember that interaction is key. And to Luis: foster a culture of unity, belief, and unwavering ambition. If they can do that, then Flamengo will be a force to be reckoned with.
Moderator: Excellent advice from a true legend of the game! Now, I want to open this up to our viewers. What are your thoughts on Bap’s vision for Flamengo? Can they reclaim the Brazilian Championship? Let us know in the comments below!
