The past few hours have seen significant attention on Flamengo, particularly regarding developments within the club. Here’s a summary prepared by the Gávea News team to keep you well-informed.
European Interest in Rising Star
The midfielder Richard Ríos, currently thriving at Palmeiras, is reportedly being eyed by Atlético de Madrid after impressing during the team’s debut at the Super World Club Championship against Porto. According to the Spanish newspaper Sport, coach Diego Simeone was particularly taken with the Colombian’s physicality, game vision, and passing accuracy. Atlético is considering making a formal offer of approximately 40 million euros (around R$ 283 million) in hopes of securing his transfer in the next window.
This potential transfer could benefit Flamengo, which developed Ríos and still holds 6% of his economic rights. If the proposed transfer materializes, Flamengo could earn approximately R$ 15 million. Ríos, although he had limited opportunities in the main Flamengo squad, gained visibility during his time at Guarani before quickly becoming a key player at Palmeiras under coach Abel Ferreira.
Ríos’ journey in Brazilian football has been marked by rapid evolution. After standing out at Guarani, he won important titles with Palmeiras, including the Brasileirão and Paulistão, and has solidified his place as a starter for the Colombian national team. As negotiations unfold, Flamengo is focusing on its upcoming match in the Super World Club Championship against Chelsea, a decisive clash that promises excitement for the fans.
FIFA Report Discrepancy
FIFA recently released an official report on clubs participating in the Club World Cup in the United States, listing Flamengo with only seven national titles and omitting the controversial 1987 Brazilian Championship. This oversight reignites one of Brazilian football’s major disputes involving Flamengo and Sport regarding the official recognition of that title.
While Flamengo’s official count includes eight titles, recognizing the Copa União of 1987, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF)’s earlier recognition of both Flamengo and Sport as champions was overturned by the Judiciary after an action from the Pernambuco club. Higher courts, such as the Superior Court of Justice (STJ) and the Supreme Federal Court (STF), upheld the verdict in favor of Sport, declaring it the sole champion for that year.
Despite these judicial setbacks, Flamengo has contemplated appealing to FIFA for international recognition, although no formal request has yet been made. Interestingly, earlier this year, FIFA’s social media posts acknowledged Flamengo as having eight titles, causing confusion among supporters. The new report seems to reaffirm FIFA’s stance in light of the judicial decision, but the discussion remains contentious among Flamengo fans.
High-Value Contract for Young Talent
Flamengo has officially signed the first professional contract for 16-year-old midfielder João Vitor, one of the club’s brightest youth prospects. The contract runs until the end of 2028 and includes a staggering buyout clause of 50 million euros (approximately R$ 316 million). This move is part of Flamengo’s strategy to safeguard the player against potential interest from foreign clubs, considering his impressive performances in the Under-17 Brazilian Championship.
João Vitor has made a mark this season, scoring 10 goals and providing one assist. Notably, he recently had a standout game against Botafogo, netting three goals and assisting another in a thrilling 4-3 victory. His talent has been recognized at the national level as he was called up for Brazil’s Under-15 team for 2024, reinforcing his status as one of Flamengo’s most promising young players.
Currently, Flamengo is competing in the semifinals of the Carioca Under-17 Championship, set to face Fluminense in a crucial second leg after a defeat in the first match. Securing João Vitor’s contract is seen as a further step in valuing and protecting the club’s young talents. Flamengo aims to gradually develop him for future integration into the first team, potentially turning him into a valuable asset both on the field and financially.
In conclusion, Flamengo is actively nurturing its talents and preparing for crucial matches that may define the season. The combination of internal development and external interest underscores the club’s position in Brazilian football.