Club World Cup coach dismisses Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy: “I was better”
These days, the streets of New York are filled with Flamengo fans eyeing Fluminense supporters with a hint of jealousy. The former have resigned themselves to shopping in Manhattan, while the latter are gearing up for a historic moment—the Club World Cup semifinal against Chelsea (Tuesday, 9:00 p.m. local time).
It’s a major milestone that Renato Gaúcho’s side has reached on merit, thanks to the tactical philosophy of “Ordem e Progresso” put in place by the team’s true star.
Flu’s roster features standout veterans like captain Thiago Silva and 44-year-old goalkeeper Fábio, one of the tournament’s biggest surprises. But the real heart of the squad—the face of South America’s resistance to European dominance—is manager Renato Gaúcho. While relatively unknown on the other side of the Atlantic, Gaúcho is a huge figure in Brazil, a country that has seen its coaches shine at this Club World Cup.
A man of the moment—and the microphones
This marks Renato’s seventh stint with the Rio club, having returned in April after a turbulent period. Fluminense’s recent story has seen the club win its first Copa Libertadores and narrowly avoid relegation in the same breath. Renato has been the team’s go-to crisis manager during its darkest hours. As a player, he was considered one of the top wingers of the ’80s, a legend at Grêmio, where he also won a Libertadores as head coach.
Renato has always balanced tactics on the pitch with flair at the press conference table. He commands both arenas with ease, ensuring one never overshadows the other. Known formally as Renato Portaluppi, he has never been shy about his self-confidence. In 2017, his Grêmio side faced Real Madrid in the (shortened) Club World Cup final—a match won by a Cristiano Ronaldo goal. Renato later delivered a bold statement:
“He’s a great player, but I was better than him. I was more technical, and he’s not as versatile as I was. I’d like to see myself in Real Madrid’s team with all those teammates, and I’d like to see him play in a state league, Copa Libertadores, or go months without getting paid,” he declared, echoing the pride of South American players who’ve thrived without needing to go to Europe. Just like Hércules has, who has scored two decisive goals in the knockout rounds against Inter Milan and Al Hilal.