From Survivors to Contenders

Renato Portaluppi’s Fluminense Stun the Club World Cup

Once written off as relegation survivors, Brazilian side Fluminense are now just one step away from the Club World Cup final, thanks to the charismatic and controversial leadership of Renato Portaluppi — better known as Renato Gaúcho.

At 62, Portaluppi has brought both flair and fire to the Rio de Janeiro club, guiding them through a stunning campaign that has seen them knock out European giants Inter Milan and Asian champions Al Hilal, setting up a semi-final against Chelsea on Tuesday.

A Coach Who Thrives on Chaos

Portaluppi, one of Brazilian football’s most polarizing figures, took over Fluminense just three months ago. The club had narrowly escaped relegation in the Brazilian league, but under his guidance, they have been reborn with an aggressive, high-pressing style he proudly dubs “creating chaos.”

Fluminense’s transformation has been remarkable — not just tactically, but emotionally. They’ve played with urgency and a fearless mentality that mirrors their coach's larger-than-life personality.

The Showman Behind the Sidelines

Renato is no stranger to the spotlight. A former striker who scored nearly 200 career goals, he famously claimed to be "better than Cristiano Ronaldo" and once appeared on a newspaper front page wearing a crown and holding a sceptre after leading Fluminense to a dramatic derby victory in 1995.

From scoring iconic goals to being left out of Brazil’s 1986 World Cup squad for partying, Portaluppi’s career has been a mix of brilliance and rebellion. But there’s no questioning his ability to inspire, particularly in knockout competitions.

Dual Libertadores Legacy

One of Portaluppi’s proudest achievements is being the first Brazilian to win the Copa Libertadores both as a player and a coach, a feat he accomplished with Grêmio — his boyhood club. His 2017 coaching success followed a Brazilian Cup win in 2016, ending a 15-year trophy drought.

Though he has never claimed the Brazilian league title, Portaluppi thrives in high-stakes cup football, and Fluminense’s current World Cup run is yet another example.

Tactical Risks, Emotional Rewards

Critics often argue that Portaluppi leans too heavily on instinct rather than in-depth tactical planning. He has openly resisted the growing trend of foreign coaches in Brazil, claiming they are given more time and trust than locals. But with Fluminense, his bold 4-2-3-1 system and emotionally charged leadership are paying off.

Chelsea Awaits

Now, Fluminense face Chelsea, with the odds stacked against them once more. But if their recent performances are any indication, Portaluppi’s squad will embrace the underdog tag, and continue fighting with the fire he’s instilled in them.

One thing is certain: win or lose, Renato Portaluppi and Fluminense have already made this Club World Cup unforgettable.