Atlético-MG manager states that Flamengo and Palmeiras “are not unbeatable”

Executive Director of Football Atlético-MGRodrigo Caetano stated on Friday (22) that Flamengo It is Palm trees They are among the favorites in the title fight, but they are not unbeatable. Protagonists in recent years not only in Brazil, but also in South America, the two clubs have squads considered the best and most expensive in the country.

“There are clubs there with a payroll (salary) practically double that of Galo, which is the case of Flamengo. Our payroll, according to studies, would generate between the fifth (largest)”, stated the director in an interview with Rádio Grenal, before making an assessment of the rival and also of Palmeiras.

“They are not unbeatable, but if you nominate four candidates for the title they will be among them,” said Rodrigo Caetano, referring to Flamengo and Palmeiras, who have shared four Libertadores titles (two for each) in the last five years.

In 2023, both teams were surpassed by São Paulo in the Copa do Brasil. The title took the Morumbi club back to the Libertadores after a two-year absence. “You can often win a World Cup without being among the best squads. But the Brazilian Championship requires regularity.”

In the last six years, Flamengo (2019 and 2020) and Palmeiras (2018, 2022 and 2023) won five Brazilians. The “intruder” was precisely Atlético-MG, in 2021.

The executive said he will continue in Belo Horizonte despite being approached by some rivals. “I actually had inquiries from some clubs, including Corinthians. This became public. I thank you. But we chose to continue my contract and continue the work at Galo.”

He recalled that there was still an invitation to return to Grêmio, but that his contract had recently been renewed and the conversation did not progress. With his destiny defined, Rodrigo Caetano spoke about the team for next season. Regarding the hiring of Gustavo Scarpa, ex-Palmeiras, who is in Europe, he did not want to elaborate on the negotiations. “We don’t have this situation in place. Scarpa is a great player, but we don’t have this situation under control yet.

The director also spoke about his relationship with the team’s current coach, Luiz Felipe Scolari. “He’s a great figure. It’s the first time I’ve worked with him, he’s very well adapted.”

Felipão returned to coaching a team after a brief experience as a manager at Athletico Paranaense. “He himself said that after a few moments he was no longer comfortable. He really liked the field.”

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