The Leverkusen signing that got away—and why it still matters | OneFootball

Bayer Leverkusen’s technical director Simon Rolfes has revealed that the Bundesliga club attempted to sign Filipe Luís in 2019, only for the Brazilian to choose Flamengo instead, according to Globo. Speaking during Leverkusen’s pre-season stint at Flamengo’s Ninho do Urubu training ground in Rio de Janeiro, Rolfes recounted the club’s pursuit of the then-Atlético de Madrid left-back.

Rolfes explained that he maintained "a good connection" with Filipe Luís, now manager at Flamengo, recalling a meeting in Madrid as Leverkusen sought to bolster their squad. “We tried to sign him in 2019, when he was at Atlético de Madrid, and since then we’ve always stayed in touch. We had lunch together in Madrid and had a good conversation, but in the end it wasn’t possible,” Rolfes said.

The technical director admitted the club’s situation at the time played a role: “Back then we weren’t at the level we are today. I think now we would have had more chances.” Shortly after Leverkusen’s approach, Filipe Luís instead elected to return to Brazil, signing with Flamengo and beginning a successful spell capped by numerous trophies—including the Copa Libertadores and multiple domestic crowns.

Rolfes harboured no regrets, complimenting Filipe Luís for his ambition. “At the time, he said he wanted to go to a club where he could win titles, and in the end he achieved that at Flamengo. He wanted to win and won a lot.”

Since retiring as a player, Filipe Luís has transitioned to coaching, taking charge at Flamengo where he previously enjoyed great success on the pitch. Rolfes sees significant potential in his former target, suggesting the 38-year-old’s experience with clubs like Atlético de Madrid and Chelsea could one day propel him to a leading role in European football. “With his football intelligence and experience, yes, I see the right combination. He is a very ambitious guy.”

Leverkusen, currently conducting their pre-season in Rio, used the opportunity to keep an eye on Flamengo’s youth talent as well, facing the club’s under-20 side in a friendly at Estádio da Gávea. Rolfes noted that scouting Brazilian players remains a priority for Leverkusen, acknowledging the challenges inherent in landing top talent from the country.

The relationship between Leverkusen and Flamengo now extends beyond that missed transfer opportunity, as the German champions assess the next generation of local players and see firsthand the environment that has shaped Filipe Luís—from elite player to top-flight manager.

(Source: Globo)