The champion coach of the last Copa Libertadores left Flamengo to take up his second cycle in Las Águilas.
Jorge Jesus was appointed coach of Benfica the second time after abandoning Flamengo. The Portuguese team turned to the Portuguese veteran after Porto snatched the Primeira Liga title from him this season.
Fla was hoping to stay with Jesus, who led the club to the Brazilian Championship, the Copa Libertadores and the glory of the South American Recopa after his arrival last year. “Despite mourning the loss of his victorious coach, Flamengo respects this personal decision,” the Brazilian club said in a statement.
The Portuguese coach said goodbye through Instagram with the Mengao fans. “It was 13 months of perfect union, a time when I was very happy, I felt at home, we had unforgettable achievements. But today we met with the Flamengo board and decided it was time to end our relationship, without resentment” , commented on the matter.
He added: “It was a break that will not leave scars, only memories of victories and titles, emotions that I will carry for life. The time has come to return to Portugal. I am sure that Flamengo will continue its victorious career because it has a mold and a structure that coincides with his greatness. For all, my eternal gratitude will remain forever in my heart. “