Fabulous season for the biggest team on the country. The arrival of Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus had an impact beyond any expectation and led Flamengo to one of the best seasons (if not THE best) ever.
Season started like so many others, in current century. Good performances intercalated with poor ones. As initially predicted, Abel Braga’s old fashioned ideas didn’t suit the quality squad he was given.
A few rounds before the break for Copa America, club signed with Portuguese Jorge Jesus who astutely used the break as some sort of mini pre-season to shape his new revolutionary ideas to the club.
The results were immediate. Fla started playing like no other team in the country and after a bad 0-3 defeat at Bahia, Rubronegros started a run of 24 games without losing (21 wins and 3 draws).
Not only Fla held the title in the end, they also celebrated the continental glory by winning Libertadores cup in November, a competition Fla was also very dominant after the arrival of the Portuguese.
Besides the Portuguese coach, Mengão counted with a devilish attacking duo that couldn’t stop scoring: Gabigol+Bruno Henrique. Arrascaeta justified the heavy investment made on him and the European experience of new signings Rafinha, Filipe Luís, Pablo Marí and Gerson was crucial.
Keeping Jorge Jesus on board will be the most important move the board will ever do. If JJ stays, Fla will instantly be the big favourites for next season.
