Reflecting on the mounting pressure and his deep connection to the club, Luis delivered a poignant final address before the news of his sacking was made public. "Regardless of what happens, if tomorrow I am not here, my love and affection for Flamengo will always exist. And I believe from the fan, for me, as well," he admitted to reporters.
The former left-back remained steadfast in his belief that the supporters have every right to demand excellence, even when results look positive on the scoreboard. "The momentary pressure has to exist; as a player I was very pressured and very criticized, rightly so, and that made me better," he explained, showing the resilience that defined his playing career at the highest level in Europe.
Clearly moved as he contemplated the end of his journey in Rio de Janeiro, Luis looked back on his seven-year association with the institution with immense pride. He was transparent about the impact the club had on his personal and professional life, refusing to bitter about the scrutiny he faced during the difficult start to the new year.
Luis concluded his final press conference by reaffirming his bond with the Rubro-Negro supporters, regardless of the board's eventual decision to move in a different direction. "I have no doubt that I lived the best years of my life here," he stated.