Romário

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Romário's second act with Flamengo began in 1995, but it was often overshadowed by his volatility. During a Supercopa Libertadores clash against Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield, tensions flared when an opponent struck Edmundo; Romário retaliated immediately by kicking the defender on the chest. His time at the club was frequently interrupted by moves to Spain. He started the 1996–97 season with Valencia but returned after clashing with Luis Aragonés. A second attempt in the 1997–98 season lasted only six league matches before coach Claudio Ranieri, citing a desire not to keep players against their will, allowed Romário to leave for good to return to Flamengo. Despite these interruptions, he remained a central figure for the club during this turbulent period.

In Their Own Story

The most memorable incident of Romário's time at Flamengo occurred in 1995 during a Supercopa Libertadores match against Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield. The game turned physical when an opposition defender punched Romário's teammate, Edmundo. In a flash of retaliation, Romário kicked the defender directly on the chest. This moment highlighted his intense loyalty to teammates and his willingness to engage in on-field confrontations. His tenure was further defined by a seesawing relationship with Valencia; after leaving for Spain in 1996 due to arguments with Luis Aragonés, he returned to Flamengo only to go back to Valencia in 1997. However, that second stint ended quickly after just six league matches, as new coach Claudio Ranieri agreed to his departure so Romário could prepare for the World Cup, sending him back to Flamengo for good.

Reader's Guide

Romário's relationship with Flamengo between 1995 and 2000 was characterized by frequent departures and returns. While he spent five years with the club overall, two short-lasting comebacks to Spain interrupted his domestic tenure. His first return to Brazil saw him involved in a physical altercation against Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield in 1995. He then moved to Valencia for the 1996–97 season but was loaned back after conflicts with Luis Aragonés. A second move to Valencia in the 1997–98 season ended abruptly after six league games; coach Claudio Ranieri facilitated his exit, allowing Romário to return to Flamengo permanently to focus on World Cup preparation. This era showcases his unique ability to navigate international transfers while maintaining a strong connection to his home club.

Did You Know?

• In 1995, Romário kicked an opposition defender on the chest during a match against Club Atlético Vélez Sarsfield because the defender had punched his teammate Edmundo.
• Romário played only six league matches for Valencia in the 1997–98 season before leaving permanently to return to Flamengo.
• Coach Claudio Ranieri allowed Romário to leave Valencia at the start of the 1997–98 season because he did not want any players staying against their will.