Pedro returns to Flamengo after a strong performance with the national team, but the club is currently experiencing a climate of internal dissatisfaction and discontent.
Striker Pedro resumes his commitments with Flamengo this week, bringing with him the confidence from a solid performance for the Brazil national team. However, his return comes at a delicate moment, marked by an episode of public dissatisfaction with coach Leonardo Jardim following a substitution, and a subsequent internal discomfort within the club.
The impression left from the Rubro-Negro’s last match against Red Bull Bragantino generated negative repercussions among some players and members of the football department. The No. 9’s attitude, openly showing his displeasure after being substituted despite scoring a goal, was disapproved of by a portion of the squad.
Public Complaint Creates Discomfort
In the match played on September 20, shortly before joining the national team, Pedro was substituted in the 25th minute of the second half, after finding the back of the net. Coach Jardim‘s decision did not please the forward, who expressed his dissatisfaction with the coach as he left the field.
“Of course, after scoring a goal, with a 2-0 lead, I wanted to continue and score more goals. But Flamengo has a lot of quality,” stated Pedro as he left the pitch, attempting to ease the situation but not hiding his frustration. The internal assessment is that the player sometimes reacts excessively to adversity.
Dissatisfaction with Contract Renewal
Parallel to this incident, there is a current of dissatisfaction from the player regarding the delay in renewing his contract. Pedro feels he has been left behind compared to other players on the squad who have already had their contracts and salaries adjusted. His importance to the team, even after a serious injury, leads him to believe he deserves greater recognition.
Foreign clubs have already shown interest, with inquiries and financially attractive offers. Although discussions for a new contract extension have begun, they are still in their early stages, and the player’s staff believes that previous promises from the board have not been fulfilled. Pedro‘s current contract with Flamengo is valid until the end of 2027.
History of Turmoil and Trust in Jardim
This is not the first time Pedro‘s behavior has caused internal discussions. In July of last year, the forward was criticized publicly by then-coach Filipe Luís for his performance in training. At the time, after a team meeting, Pedro admitted to being affected by leaked information.
The arrival of Leonardo Jardim, however, marked a turning point. The Portuguese coach has publicly praised the player and called him for a conversation, reaffirming his confidence. Despite not being an undisputed starter in all competitions, Pedro has regained prominence under Jardim.
His recent call-up to the Brazil national team, under the command of Carlo Ancelotti, and his positive performance, with a goal and an assist against India, add significant points to his confidence. The Italian coach praised his technical qualities, contrasting him with the young Endrick.
Now, back at Ninho do Urubu, Pedro has the opportunity to turn the page and regain his good form, aiming to be a key player in the final stretch of the season. Flamengo is preparing to face Santos next Thursday, and Pedro‘s presence on the field will depend on his physical condition and the technical staff’s assessment.
