Flamengo Coach Apologizes for Altercation with Forward Pedro

 Flamengo Coach Apologizes for Altercation with Forward Pedro

Flamengo Coach Apologizes for Altercation with Forward Pedro(Image-Getty)

On Sunday, Flamengo assistant coach Pablo Fernandez issued an apology for an altercation with his own club's forward, Pedro, following the team's 2-1 victory against Atletico Mineiro on Saturday.

According to reports, Fernandez reprimanded Pedro in the dressing room at the Raimundo Sampaio Stadium due to his poor attitude when he expressed dissatisfaction about not being used as a substitute during the Serie A match.

Pedro claimed that Fernandez physically assaulted him by punching him in the face. Both individuals were later spotted at a police station in Belo Horizonte, with local media reporting that Pedro filed a formal complaint against the Argentine coach.

Taking to his Instagram account, 26-year-old Pedro expressed the seriousness of the situation, stating that it was more significant than on-field matters. He described the attack as "cowardly, without reason and inexplicable," expressing the impact it had on him both physically and psychologically.

In response to the incident, Fernandez posted an apology on social media, acknowledging the situation and attributing his actions to a "high-stress situation." He expressed remorse for handling the matter poorly and extended his apologies to Pedro, his teammates, the staff, and Flamengo.

Flamengo's head coach, Jorge Sampaoli, also shared his feelings on the matter through an Instagram post. He disapproved of violence as a solution and expressed sadness that the impressive victory was overshadowed by this internal dispute.

Sampaoli emphasized his role as the team leader, expressing concern for his co-workers and the need to foster a supportive team environment. He revealed his sleepless nights, contemplating how to assist both Pedro and Fernandez, stating that they have an obligation to look after each other and strive to be better.

Pedro has been a standout player for Flamengo, scoring 93 goals in 192 games since his arrival from Fiorentina in Italy in 2020. He played a vital role in helping the club win the Copa Libertadores last year as the top scorer in the tournament.

During this season, Pedro has scored four goals in 13 league games, with his last goal recorded against Gremio on June 11, five days after his last full 90-minute appearance.

Despite this incident, Flamengo currently holds the second position in the Brazilian league standings, trailing 12 points behind Botafogo.