RIO DE JANEIRO, Sept. 10 (Xinhua) -- Flamengo left-back Filipe Luis has criticized the state of Brazil's Serie A pitches, saying that uneven surfaces have reduced the quality of the competition.
"The ball doesn't roll as much. It's a different type of grass," Luis said in an interview aired on TV Globo. "The impression I get is that not enough care is taken to ensure the quality of [turf] because it can affect games."
Surfaces at Brazil's major stadiums were widely lambasted during the Copa America in June and July. Critics included Argentina forward Lionel Messi and Brazil boss Tite, both of whom claimed the state of the turf was not befitting of a prestigious tournament.
Luis has made seven appearances for Flamengo since joining the club from Atletico Madrid in July as a free agent.
In that time, the Rio club has overtaken Santos at the top of the Brazilian Serie A standings, while also advancing to the semifinals of the Copa Libertadores.
Luis praised the influence of ex-Sporting Lisbon and Benfica boss Jorge Jesus, who took over as head coach of Flamengo in June.
"Tactically, he has very clear ideas and he knows how to communicate those to the players," the Brazil international said. "He's been able to absorb the Flamengo DNA. He has a similar style to [Brazil manager] Tite so it hasn't been difficult for me to get used to."
