Lage explains going to Botafogo after discarding Corinthians and Atlético-MG: “Different moments”

Chosen to replace Luís Castro, who left Botafogo in the leadership of the Brasileirão to take over Al Nassr, from Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese Bruno Lage was introduced this Wednesday and spoke about the reasons for having accepted the proposal from Botafogo after saying no to offers from Corinthians and Atlético-MG. According to him, the previous opportunities to come to Brazil came at a time that was not ideal. In addition, he highlighted the opportunity to continue the “brilliant work” that was being done by Castro.

“It was not a rejection of Corinthians or Atlético. They are different moments in time. There were many situations, some died quickly, others developed and others were close to materializing”, he said. “A month ago, there was a different situation in our professional life, we were all convinced that it could take a different course. It didn’t happen and, in the meantime, what happened, as John (Textor) said, a coach who is first leaves and this opportunity appears. It was just that, it was not rejecting anyone. Botafogo convinced me and we felt that, depending on the moment, it would be very interesting to continue the brilliant work that has been done here”, he concluded.

Without a club since he was fired from Wolverhampton, in England, in October last year, the coach was contacted by Corinthians in November, after Vítor Pereira communicated that he would not renew his contract. Atlético-MG, in turn, tried to hire him after the dismissal of Eduardo Coudet, in June, but also heard a no and brought Felipão.

Upon receiving the proposal from Botafogo, Bruno Lage was excited about the project presented by John Textor, majority partner of SAF Botafogo. Then, as soon as Luís Castro’s departure was confirmed, Lage spoke with the compatriot to better understand the functioning and qualities of the team that leads the national championship.

“Luís told me things about the team that I keep for myself, but he also highly praised the players and all the staff”, he said. “He told me that there is a fantastic group. We have a very similar past. While Luís was Porto’s coordinator, I coached Benfica’s academy. We crossed paths several times. When he took over Porto’s B team and the A team, I I took the same route,” he said.

The 46-year-old coach also commented a little about his game ideas, applied at Benfica and Wolverhampton, the only two professional teams he has coached so far. “I like to see an aggressive team in attack, and that depends a lot on the players. when it gets to the final third,” he explained.

With Botafogo in great shape, in first place in the Brasileirão, with 36 points, ten above vice-leader Flamengo, the Portuguese hopes to win titles. “A title is always important for any coach, but we don’t have time to think about it. What gives me pleasure are the receptions, the way to celebrate titles, to celebrate in the stadium. What gives me satisfaction is the happiness of the people. That’s my focus,” he said.