Cholo 2.0: Filipe Luís Says He Wants to Be Like Diego Simeone
A Dismissal That Surprised Brazil
The news surprised many in Brazil. After an 8–0 win in the Campeonato Carioca, Flamengo decided to part ways with head coach Filipe Luís, a decision that sparked debate across South American football. The move is striking considering the context: the team had lost the finals of the Brazilian Super Cup and the Recopa Sudamericana, but was still set to play the Campeonato Carioca final against Fluminense, while the Brasileirão season had only reached its third matchday.
The Influence of “El Cholo”
In an interview with Jorge Valdano, the Brazilian coach — a Copa Libertadores champion with Flamengo — spoke about the influences that shaped his path toward the sidelines. Despite working with several managers throughout his career, one left a particularly strong mark: Diego Simeone.
According to Filipe Luís, it was under “El Cholo” that he truly understood the meaning of leadership in football. “It was the first time I stepped onto the field knowing when I was to blame and when I wasn’t,” the Brazilian recalled. He also highlighted Diego Simeone’s remarkable ability to influence the locker room and project authority within the squad.
In fact, the former fullback admitted that the Argentine coach’s commanding voice was so powerful that it still gives him “nightmares.” That influence, however, was not negative; on the contrary, it became a reference point for his own career as a coach.
A Style Reminiscent of Atlético de Madrid
That inspiration was clearly reflected in last season’s Flamengo side. The Rubro-Negro became an aggressive, intense and highly competitive team capable of dominating both in Brazil and across South America. Under his leadership, the club won the Brazilian Serie A, the Super Cup and the Libertadores, consolidating a style built on tactical discipline and constant ambition.
“I’m going to be like him,” Filipe Luís said, making it clear that the school of Diego Simeone is one of the coaching philosophies that inspires him the most in modern football. His biggest dream, in fact, is to one day manage in the Champions League.
Numbers That Support His Project
His numbers with Flamengo support that ambition. In 100 matches in charge, he recorded 63 victories; his team scored 190 goals and conceded only 76. A record that reflects attacking power combined with defensive organization.
Tactically, he often relies on systems like the 4-2-3-1 to control the midfield, although he is not afraid to take risks with more offensive formations such as the 3-4-3 when the match demands it. He also emphasizes wing play, something that recalls his own days as a fullback.
Filipe Luís has already made history with Flamengo, in a way similar to what Diego Simeone achieved with Atlético de Madrid. Now, the next step could be Europe, where he will try to prove he can continue to grow as a manager.
The big question remains: will the student one day surpass the master?
