RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) — Veteran Flamengo defender Filipe Luis has revealed he will leave a decision about his future until after next week’s Copa Libertadores final.
The 37-year-old’s contract is due to expire in December but it is understood the Rio de Janeiro club could offer him a 12-month extension.
“After the Libertadores final several things could happen,” Luis told reporters. “It would be disrespectful to discuss anything at this point.”
Flamengo will be aiming for their third Libertadores trophy when they meet Brazilian rivals Athletico Paranaense – who are managed by former Brazil boss Luiz Felipe Scolari – at Guayaquil’s Monumental stadium on October 29.
The final will also present Filipe with the chance to win South America’s premier club competition for a second time since joining Flamengo from Atletico Madrid in 2019.
“The final is completely different to a normal game,” Luis said. “The pressure is on another level because of what’s at stake.
“It’s going to be a tough game against Athletico, who have a manager who is a world champion and knows how to approach these types of matches,” added the former Brazil international left-back in reference to Scolari, who was manager of the Brazil team that won the 2002 World Cup in Japan and South Korea.
Filipe also alluded to previously stated plans to pursue a career in football management. He has already completed one of three levels of a coaching course offered by the Brazilian Football Confederation for aspiring managers.
“When I retire, I want to return to Flamengo and win trophies while filling another position,” Filipe said. “This shirt is special. As players we feel recognized, and I am privileged.”