Paulo Nunes Is Wrong About Samuel Lino and Flamengo
The forward shines against Botafogo and consolidates a new tactical phase under Leonardo Jardim.
Bernardo Ramos pushes back against pundit Paulo Nunes' comments regarding forward Samuel Lino following Flamengo's derby victory over Botafogo. The analysis highlights the player's European track record and his recent tactical evolution.
Paulo Nunes was completely wrong in his assessment of Samuel Lino's form at Flamengo. The former forward and current pundit labeled the Rubro-Negro player an "upgraded Cuiabano," a remark that sparked strong pushback after Lino's masterclass in the derby against Botafogo. For Bernardo Ramos, the comparison disrespects both athletes while ignoring that Cuiabano plays at left-back for Vasco, performing an entirely different role on the pitch.
In the video above, Bernardo Ramos contextualizes Paulo Nunes' long-standing frustration dating back to negotiations in the 1990s—when he moved to Grêmio alongside Magno in exchange for center-back Agnaldo—and breaks down the tactical reading of the current Rubro-Negro squad.
European performance and market value
Doubt surrounding the winger overlooks his recent track record in European soccer. Samuel Lino was voted Atlético de Madrid's Player of the Season for 2023/2024 before signing with the Rio de Janeiro club early in the second half of last year. In Bernardo's view, the 22 million euro investment was an outstanding signing relative to the market, especially with interest from Napoli amid the overhaul led by Simeone.
Role change under Leonardo Jardim
The forward's evolution stems directly from the coaching staff's work. Under Filipe Luís, with whom the club won the Copa Libertadores and the Brasileirão, Lino operated in a more restricted role on the left wing. Under Leonardo Jardim, however, the attacker gained the freedom to drift centrally, combine with Arrascaeta and Pedro, and occupy the right flank.
This tactical versatility was on full display against Botafogo. When Everton Cebolinha replaced Pedro, Lino stepped into the center-forward role and showed supreme confidence: he scored with a delicate chip over goalkeeper Gabriel Batista after a through ball from Carrascal. Earlier, he had opened the scoring by attacking the space behind the three-man backline following a long pass from Jorginho.
Adapting to Brazilian soccer and the Seleção
Knee-jerk criticism often ignores the time required to adjust to a new country and playing style—a natural process that affects players like Plata, Carrascal, Joaquín Freitas, and Antonio Valencia. Given his consistency and high performance level, Bernardo believes Samuel Lino could contend for a spot in Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil national team as part of the squad's renewal process.