Flamengo Details Youth-First Strategy, Record R$2.1 Billion Revenue as Filipe Luís Talks Near Decision

Overview

• President Luiz Eduardo Baptista reported 2025 revenue of R$ 2.1 billion, transfer income near R$ 545 million and free cash of R$ 218 million, and said the club will only sell with payment guarantees.
• Recruitment will prioritize players under 26 to lower the squad’s average age, with needs identified at goalkeeper, center back, winger and center forward.
• Baptista said Flamengo will seek to ensure no Brazilian rival outspends the club in upcoming windows, while capping intermediary fees and emphasizing financial discipline.
• The club forecasts a 2026 “dry spell” from its academy after more than 270 departures, shifting investment to 16–17-year-old talents and adding coach incentives tied to future sales.
• Sporting director José Boto defended caution with youth at Flamengo and contrasted the pressure to that at Palmeiras, citing U-17 João Victor as an example, a comparison that intensified debate over player development.