Filipe Luis Tribute: Flamengo Farewell to a Football Legend

 Filipe Luis Tribute: Flamengo Farewell to a Football Legend

Filipe Luis of Flamengo honors by his teammates after winning the match between Flamengo and Cuiaba as part of Brasileirao 2023 at Maracana Stadium on December 03, 2023 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Filipe Luis announced his retirement of football by the end of the season with the expiration of his contract with the club.(Image-Getty)

Flamengo's revered Brazilian defender, Filipe Luis, was honored at Maracana Stadium on Sunday, marking the culmination of his illustrious 20-year playing career. The 38-year-old, formerly of Atletico Madrid, bid farewell to fans in a ceremony preceding Flamengo's 2-1 victory over Cuiaba in Brazil's Serie A, with his final match scheduled for Sao Paulo on Wednesday.

Expressing gratitude in a video released by Flamengo, Filipe Luis stated, "The feeling that is left is only one, of gratitude. Thank you very much. These were the best years of my life, without a doubt." The former Brazil international amassed 683 professional appearances, primarily with Atletico, where he secured six of his 18 titles, including LaLiga and two Europa League triumphs.

Capped 44 times for Brazil and a 2019 Copa America winner, Filipe Luis is anticipated to continue his association with Flamengo, possibly in a managerial or coaching capacity, as indicated by local media reports. His retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable career, celebrated at Maracana with heartfelt tributes.