One of Mamelodi Sundowns' upcoming FIFA Club World Cup opponents coaches has revealed why he believes his team is already at a disadvantage before the tournament even starts.
The Brazilians have been drawn into Group F alongside German giants Borussia Dortmund, Brazilian outfit Fluminense, and South Korea’s Ulsan HD FC.
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With the 2024/25 Brasileiro Serie A and other domestic cup competitions still in progress, Fluminense head coach Renato Gaucho has insisted that his side is already facing a setback heading into the global tournament.
Fluminense will kick off their Club World Cup campaign against Borussia Dortmund on June 17, before facing Ulsan and South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
While GaUcho remains confident that the Team of Warriors can pose a serious challenge to Downs and the rest of the group, he expressed concern over the demanding schedule and the strain of competing in several competitions within a very short period.
"We know we’ll be facing some of the best teams in the world, but our goal, like all teams, is to reach the final," Renato said, according to FootBoom.
"The main thing is the joy of competing in this World Cup. We’ll see how it goes. My group is in good shape, and we hope to perform well.
"Now we start focusing on the World Cup. We’re traveling next Friday. It’s a great pleasure to compete in this tournament, and we hope to do well," he continued.
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"I’m already at a disadvantage compared to other coaches because I took over just two months ago. We’ve had a game every three days," added the Brazilian coach.
"Even so, we’re in the round of 16 of Copa do Brasil and Copa Sudamericana, and near the top of the league. Now we head to the World Cup while many teams will take vacations and start a new preseason. So, I remain at a disadvantage."
