Pedro Lourenço, owner of the SAF (Sociedade Anónima Desportiva) of the Belo Horizonte club, heaped praise on the Portuguese coach and even offered him a five-year contract.
The owner of Cruzeiro’s SAF (Sociedade Anónima de Futebol – Football Limited Company) heaped praise on Leonardo Jardim and guaranteed that he intends to continue with the Portuguese coach, even if this is not the immediate intention of the Brazilian club’s coach.
In statements to the Brazilian press, the businessman reiterated his complete confidence in Jardim and assured that his continued involvement depends solely on Jardim’s own wishes.
“Leonardo Jardim will only leave if he wants to. I’ve already offered him a five-year contract,” revealed Pedro Lourenço, underlining his admiration for the Portuguese coach.
When asked if this proposal was formalized, the leader clarified that everything is based on the relationship of trust established between them.
“No, I talk to him, I tell him. Today I already have a great relationship with him. Jardim is a spectacular guy. We owe him a lot for the work he did at Cruzeiro. He’s an exceptional coach. We have a very good friendship,” he said.
Pedro Lourenço also admitted to being aware of Jardim’s doubts about continuing his coaching career, but maintains hope that the Portuguese coach will remain in charge of the Minas Gerais team.
I know he no longer wants to be a coach. But we’re talking today and I hope he stays with us,” said Pedro Lourenço.
“I want him to stay. And I hope he doesn’t leave us and that he stays with us. Stay, Jardim,” the manager concluded.
It’s worth remembering that Leonardo Jardim has a contract with Cruzeiro until 2026, but he himself has not guaranteed his continuity with the club . This season, he led Cruzeiro to third place in the Brazilian Championship and qualified them for the next Copa Libertador.