Flamengo's Filipe Luis gains European attention despite Club World Cup exit

PHILADELPHIA :Flamengo's spirited display at the Club World Cup ended with a 4-2 defeat by Bayern Munich in the last 16 but the Brazilian side's attacking approach under Filipe Luis has drawn praise and put the 39-year-old firmly on the radar of Europe's top clubs.

Despite the loss, Flamengo's campaign, which included a commanding 3-1 win over Premier League Chelsea, showcased their ability to challenge European opposition, a feat no Brazilian club has managed in 13 years at this level.

Filipe Luis, a former defender with Atletico Madrid and Chelsea, has transformed Flamengo into an exciting offensive force since taking over last year, winning three domestic trophies in his first four months at the helm.

The match against Bayern saw Flamengo fight valiantly, with goals from Gerson and Jorginho with a penalty keeping them in contention. However, Bayern's clinical finishing, including a brace from Harry Kane, proved decisive.

Speaking after the match, Filipe Luis acknowledged the challenge of facing European giants.

"There are levels in football, and reaching the very top is difficult for clubs outside Europe. But we showed we can compete against a much superior rival and the way we played brought us closer to winning," he said.

Filipe Luis' managerial career has taken off rapidly since he succeeded former Brazil coach Tite at Flamengo.

Under his guidance, the club won the Copa do Brasil in November, the Supercopa do Brasil against Botafogo in February, and the Carioca Championship in March.

The Club World Cup marked the first tournament Luís has failed to win, though his achievements have already drawn comparisons to Brazil's top coaching exports.

European media have taken notice, with Marca describing him as "one of the