O Botafogo faced Vitória in the 34th round of the Brazilian Championship. The Rio team ended up in a 1-1 draw at Nilton Santos. Faced with this result, Fogão ended up losing the lead to Palmeiras, who beat Atlético-GO 1-0 and took the top of the table due to additional victories.
Given the hesitation, criticism of the coach Artur Jorge, from Botafogo, increased considerably after the decisions made by the coach in this match and in this final stretch of the season. Fans point to the drop in performance at the most crucial moment of the year as a direct consequence of questionable tactical choices and lineups that deviate from the standard that took the club to the top of the table.
One of the main complaints is about Júnior's change in position, who, according to fans, becomes more active as a right winger. However, Artur Jorge decided to centralize it in an attempt to adjust the tactical scheme, which generated dissatisfaction.
Fans question Artur Jorge
Why change the scheme? Júnior plays better on the right wing than in any other position, so the coach centralizes him. Unbelievable!, criticized a fan on social mediawhich has been the place where Fogão fans vent their revolt.
RJ – RIO DE JANEIRO – 11/05/2024 – BRAZILIAN A 2024, BOTAFOGO
Another recurring point in complaints is the coach's inability to react to the opponents' adaptation. “When the teams learned to score, he couldn’t do anything. THE Botafogo just melted”, stated a profile dedicated to the club, which echoes the feeling that Botafogo lost strength in the most decisive moments.
Furthermore, the delay in correcting problems during matches is criticized. In a recent example, Arthur Jorge waited 20 minutes to adjust Junior and Igor's position, a decision that was delayed and ineffective. “It’s ridiculous, pathetic performance. Pathetic popcorn, these guys have to be punished.”said a fan.
Artur Jorge receives criticism from Botafoguenses
The possibility of sparing players to face Palmeiras days before a final also generated dissatisfaction. “The only justification for saving money would be to go full force against Palmeiras. That explains it, ONLY!”complained another fan, indicating that the coach's decisions do not prioritize the titles in dispute.
See also
After controversy, Ednaldo Rodrigues' CBF defines referee for game between Palmeiras x Botafogo
Faced with widespread discontent, pressure on Arthur Jorge grows, and many believe that the changes made by the coach could compromise the search for the Brazilian Championship and Copa Libertadores titles. The coach, who was already praised for leading Botafogo for most of the championship, now needs to deal with the challenge of regaining the support of the fans while trying to avoid a new historic embarrassment for the Rio team.
