Top of the league in Brazil, Botafogo fires Portuguese coach Bruno Lage

Within the span of 16 games, Bruno Lage commanded the team to a tally of five triumphant victories, seven hard-fought draws, and four bitter defeats
by
Desmond Efe-Khaese
2023-10-04 12:45:22

Bruno Lage, who once stood as Botafogo’s esteemed coach, has now departed from the team. The official announcement of this decision came forth on a Tuesday evening, delivered through the channels of social media.

Within the span of 16 games, Bruno Lage commanded the team to a tally of five triumphant victories, seven ihard-fought draws, and four bitter defeats. In recognition of his service, the club has agreed to provide him with a severance package exceeding R$4 million.

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Botafogo, presently at the helm of the competition, finds itself entrusted to the leadership of Lúcio Flávio. A notable addition to this transitional phase is former defender Joel Carli, stepping into the role of technical assistant. Their mission is to prepare the team for the imminent clash with Fluminense, a pivotal encounter marking the 26th round of the Brasileirão.

Why was Bruno Lage fired from Botafogo?

The roots of the coach’s departure can be traced back to the team’s grappling with a dearth of victories, culminating in a vexing draw against Goiás and a protracted streak of five winless matches. Furthermore, discord festered within the squad due to his decision to relegate Tiquinho Soares, the team’s preeminent player, to the substitutes’ bench.

In an official statement, Botafogo asserted, “Bruno Lage no longer presides over the main team, as per the collective decision of John Textor and the Football Department. Despite an auspicious start with a streak of 10 unbeaten games, the recent outcomes have diverged from our expectations. The Club extends its appreciation to Bruno Lage for his unwavering professionalism and commitment during his tenure with the black and white shirt, and extends him well wishes for his forthcoming endeavors.”

Botafogo is now fervently seeking internal solutions while upholding unwavering confidence in their overarching season objectives, fortified by the impassioned support of their legion of fervent black and white fans. The reins of the team shall be temporarily held by Lucio Flavio and Joel Carli, commencing their stewardship from Wednesday onwards, as they undertake the ardent preparations for the impending showdown against Fluminense in the Brazilian Championship.

After 25 games played, Botafogo is in first place in the Brazilian league, with 52 points, 7 points ahead of second place, Red Bull Bragantino.