Paqueta shocked by Filipe Luis sacking, credits coach for return

Lucas Paqueta expressed deep shock and gratitude after Filipe Luis was dismissed as Flamengo head coach. Luis was relieved of his duties in the early hours of Tuesday morning, a decision that has sent ripples through Brazilian football given the timing and the success he achieved during his 18-month tenure at the Maracana.

The 26-year-old playmaker said Luis was the primary catalyst for his return to the club, after completing a €42 million move from the Premier League that became the most expensive transfer in Brazilian football. In an emotional post Paqueta wrote: "How I wanted all those dreams we dreamed together to have been realised...

I wanted to thank you for everything you did to bring me back, without a doubt, the person most responsible for this!" The dismissal came despite an 8-0 win over Madureira that secured Flamengo's place in the Campeonato Carioca final, as tensions appeared to stem from a breakdown of trust off the pitch.

Brazil

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