Flamengo boss Jorge Jesus heading back to family in Portugal | OneFootball

Flamengo manager Jorge Jesus and some of his backroom staff will return to their native Portugal on Monday to ride out the COVID-19 crisis.

The board of the Rubro-Negro gave their blessing after Jesus and his colleagues requested they be allowed to be closer to family and friends.

All professional football is currently suspended in Brazil due to the global pandemic, with no sign of a return to action in sight.

Jesus himself underwent testing for coronavirus last week.

His first result was a “weak positive”, with the second test coming back “inconclusive”.

A third test showed him to be “negative” for the virus, much to the relief of the 65-year-old.

“I received the great news that my test for COVID-19 was negative,” Jesus wrote in a statement.

“I am happy and grateful for the affection, support and concern of everyone with my health. I continue in prayer for all those affected.”

In relation to his planned return to Portugal, Jesus said: “I was waiting for a decision from the board, studying and taking care of work planning.

“But, in view of the postponement of our return to activities, I want to be with my family members in this difficult time, facing a pandemic, which worries everyone.

“I pray and hope that we will soon overcome this crisis and that I can return to the field as soon as possible.”

Jesus lost a friend to the virus last Monday.

Mário Veríssimo, who had worked with Jesus at the Estrela da Amadora club for many years, was in his 80s and had underlying lung issues.