Diego Souza appointed head coach of Joinville, cites Filipe Luís as inspiration

Former Brazil midfielder Diego Souza has been named the new head coach of Joinville Esporte Clube, the Série D side from Santa Catarina. In his first public comments, Souza said he will use former Flamengo left‑back Filipe Luís – now playing for Monaco – as his primary benchmark, describing him as “very hardworking and extremely intelligent.”

Souza also mentioned former Botafogo coach Eduardo Barroca as another influence, praising Barroca’s possession‑based style. He will take charge ahead of the Copa Santa Catarina, which begins on 30 August, after Joinville’s early exit from the Série D competition.

The appointment marks Souza’s transition from player, who retired in 2024, to manager, and signals the club’s intent to improve its performance in regional tournaments.