Why Flamengo Let Gerson Go for €25 Million: A Strategic Move Amid Ambition and Transition

Why Flamengo Let Gerson Go for €25 Million: A Strategic Move Amid Ambition and Transition

Flamengo, one of Brazil’s most storied and successful football clubs, has officially parted ways with midfielder Gerson Santos da Silva, who will now continue his career at Russian giants Zenit St. Petersburg following a €25 million transfer. This move, while surprising to some fans and analysts, marks an important chapter in Flamengo’s broader vision — one that balances financial discipline, squad evolution, and long-term planning.

The Context: Gerson’s Second Spell at Flamengo

Gerson returned to Flamengo in early 2023 after an initial stint at the club between 2019 and 2021, during which he became a fan favorite and a crucial component of Jorge Jesus’s treble-winning team. His return from Olympique de Marseille was seen as both sentimental and tactical: Flamengo was aiming to rekindle its golden era by bringing back experienced and skilled players familiar with the club’s culture.

Although Gerson continued to demonstrate his class, his second spell was not as impactful as his first. Injuries, inconsistency, and increased competition in midfield limited his influence, especially with the emergence of young talent and tactical shifts under manager Filipe Luís.

The Financial Breakdown

The €25 million deal makes Gerson’s exit the fourth-largest sale in Flamengo’s history, after:

• Vinícius Júnior to Real Madrid (€45M)

• Lucas Paquetá to AC Milan (€35M)

• Reinier to Real Madrid (€30M)

Flamengo initially signed Gerson from AS Roma for €11.8M in 2019 and sold him to Marseille for €25M in 2021. They then re-signed him in 2023 for about €15M. With this new deal, Flamengo essentially recovered and slightly profited from his combined time at the club.

In today’s football economy, particularly in South America, such a return is notable. Clubs rarely have the luxury to retain top-tier talent when lucrative European or foreign offers come in — especially when those players are not indispensable tactically.

Tactical Evolution Under Filipe Luís

Flamengo’s current manager, former Brazil international Filipe Luís, has implemented a more vertical and high-intensity system, requiring dynamic midfielders who can cover ground quickly and contribute in both phases of play. In this regard, younger players such as Victor Hugo, Igor Jesus, and Matheus França have shown promise.

Gerson’s more methodical, possession-based style began to clash with this evolving system. Although technically gifted and a smart passer, his tempo and role in midfield no longer aligned seamlessly with the club’s tactical demands — particularly in international competitions like the Club World Cup and Copa Libertadores.

Strategic Decision, Not Just Financial

According to insiders, Flamengo’s decision to part with Gerson was not solely financial. It also reflects the club’s willingness to bet on emerging talent, open space on the wage bill, and reinvest in other key areas — such as defensive reinforcements and attacking depth.

With the club also moving forward on an ambitious €500 million stadium project, maintaining financial prudence is more vital than ever.

Additionally, the arrival of new signings and potential European imports — including the almost-complete acquisition of Mikey Johnston from West Brom — indicates that Flamengo are reshaping their squad in a methodical, future-oriented way.

Fan Reactions: Mixed but Understanding

Many fans expressed disappointment at losing a player who once symbolized Flamengo’s dominance across South America. However, reactions have been largely tempered by the understanding that Gerson’s current form, age (28), and market value made this the right time to sell.

Supporters have also shown growing confidence in Filipe Luís’s project, which has delivered strong results domestically and shown promise internationally — including a 3-1 victory over Chelsea at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Looking Ahead

Flamengo’s decision to sell Gerson for €25 million reflects a calculated strategic maneuver rather than a desperate financial play. It demonstrates the club’s maturity in managing its assets, staying competitive, and adapting to modern football dynamics.

As Gerson embarks on a new chapter in Russia, Flamengo turns the page with a refreshed midfield, growing investment potential, and renewed hunger to remain a powerhouse in both Brazilian and global football.