Shocking reports of Botafogo sacking their manager emerge with the players said to be open-mouthed at the news.
‘Players open-mouthed’ after shocking reports on Botafogo sacking.
According to rumours, Botafogo coach Renato Paiva was fired for refusing to let owner John Textor influence the team’s selection.outside
After Palmeiras, a Brazilian team, eliminated Botafogo from the Club World Cup at the round of 16, Paiva, who was hired in February, expressed his disbelief at being fired.
Globo, a Brazilian tabloid, claims that Paiva’s choice to use three defensive midfielders against Textor’s wishes contributed to his dismissal after Palmeiras triumphed 1-0 in extra time.
Botafogo’s biggest shareholder is Textor, who also co-owns French team Lyon and Premier League team Crystal Palace.
Palmeiras’ loss followed Botafogo’s victory over Champions League winners Paris St-Germain in the group stage.
“The club thanks Paiva and his assistants for their services to Botafogo over the last few months,” read a club statement, “particularly for the historic victory against Paris St-Germain in the Club World Cup and the qualification for the round of 16 of the [Copa] Libertadores and Copa do Brasil.”
It added that Textor and Botafogo’s football board “are in the market searching for a new coach for the challenge of continuing on the path to titles”.
“I don’t want to talk at the moment, there will be time for that,” said Paiva.
“All I can say is that I’m shocked, and the staff and players are open-mouthed about the decision.”