October 4 – Brazilian league leaders Botafogo have dismissed manager Bruno Lage following a series of disappointing results and his sidelining of star striker Tiquinho Soares.
The Rio club top the table and could well be on the way to winning their first league crown since 1995, but following a 1-1 draw with Goias and the benching of Tiquinho, Botafogo decided to part ways with Lage.
In a statement, Botafogo highlighted “Bruno Lage’s professionalism, character and commitment during the period in which he defended the black and white shirt and was part of the family. Despite the coach’s start, with 10 unbeaten games, the latest results were not as expected.”
Lucio Flavio and Joel Carli will take over as interim coaches. On Sunday, Botafogo will play crosstown rivals Fluminense.
In July, Lage succeeded Luis Castro, who departed for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, and signed a contract until the end of the season. He exits Botafogo after five wins from 16 matches and a success rate of 45.8%. During his reign, Botafogo’s lead shrunk from twelve to seven points. His benching of Tiquinho, the top scorer in the Brazilian league led to discontent. Players reportedly spoke to Botafogo owner John Textor about the fashion in which Lage managed.
The managerial dismissal comes at a crucial junction in the season for Botafogo. The Rio club maintain a lead at the top of the table, but their recent confidence has inspired little confidence with a third of the season remaining.
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