Fernando Diniz was dismissed from his role as head coach of Fluminense, even with leading the team to historic successes, including the CONMEBOL Libertadores and Recopa championships.
This was after a disappointing defeat to Flamengo, marking a sudden end to Diniz’s tenure, which saw him become the longest-serving coach at the club in the 21st century. But this was not according to Fluminense’ original plans.
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Club president Bittencourt explained in a press conference that extending Diniz’s contract was meant to bring stability. Fans supported Diniz, even suggesting a ten-year contract, but legal limits allowed only a two-year extension.
A AMÉRICA É TRICOLOR! O FLUMINENSE FOOTBALL CLUB É CAMPEÃO DA CONMEBOL LIBERTADORES 2023! 🏆🇭🇺 pic.twitter.com/0h1p61JlY0
— Fluminense F.C. (@FluminenseFC) November 4, 2023
Until Fluminense’ performance started dipping.
Six months after their Libertadores victory, the team won only one out of eleven matches in the Brazilian Championship, sitting at the bottom with just six points. This poor run led to a thorough review and the decision to terminate Diniz’s contract. Find all Fluminense matches played in 2024 here.
Not just about poor results
Bittencourt stressed that the dismissal was not a reflection of a single poor result but rather an overall assessment of the team’s recent performances and internal dynamics.
He described Diniz’s departure as one of the most emotional moments for the club, emphasizing the strong bond that had formed between the coach and the team.
The president also called attention on the club’s priority—its fans. He acknowledged their pain and the board’s responsibility to alleviate their suffering by improving results on the pitch.
For Diniz, his stint at Fluminense was marked by highs, including a dramatic Rio de Janeiro championship win over Flamengo in 2023, where his team overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit with a 4-1 victory in the return match.
