Veteran coach Abel Braga has gotten off to a rocky start at Internacional after making homophobic comments during his first press conference. The 73-year-old legend, who came out of retirement to help save the club from relegation, quickly found himself issuing an apology instead of focusing on his rescue mission.
Braga, who previously led Internacional to Copa Libertadores glory in 2006, made an unfortunate remark when discussing training gear with sporting director Andres D'Alessandro. "I said, 'I don't want my freaking team training in pink shirts, it looks like a team of faggots,'" Braga stated during the press conference in Porto Alegre.
When journalists questioned him about the slur, the coach claimed it was meant to be lighthearted. He explained it was part of his strategy to motivate his struggling squad and ease tension in the dressing room.
Quick Apology on Social Media
Facing immediate backlash online, Braga addressed the controversy on Instagram before the day ended. "I recognize that I did not make a good comment about the color pink during my press conference. Before this spreads, I apologize," he wrote.
He added that "colors do not define genders. What defines them is character." Neither Internacional nor the Brazilian football federation have issued statements regarding the incident.
This isn't the first homophobic controversy in Brazilian football this year. Earlier in 2024, manager Helio dos Anjos received a nine-game suspension and a 20,000 reais (approximately $3,750) fine for homophobic comments directed at a referee.
Critical Relegation Battle Ahead
The controversy comes at a critical time for Internacional. The club sits fourth from bottom in the Brasileirão with just 41 points and two matches remaining. They must win against both São Paulo and Bragantino to avoid relegation.
Braga has taken the job without any payment, signing a short-term contract covering only those final two games. This act of loyalty highlights his deep connection to the club where he achieved his greatest coaching success.
For bettors keeping an eye on the Brazilian league's relegation battle, Internacional now faces added pressure. The team must overcome not just their opponents but also potential distractions from this controversy.
The odds were already stacked against Internacional avoiding relegation, and this rocky start to Braga's tenure doesn't help their chances. However, sometimes external pressure can unite a team, making their upcoming matches against São Paulo and Bragantino even more unpredictable for punters.
The veteran coach will need to refocus quickly and use his considerable experience to keep players concentrated solely on their survival mission in Brazil's top flight.
