Jhonata Ventura's return to the field
"I'm extremely happy," says the defender, who played against América-MG
By Rafael Rezende - in
The match against América-MG, last Saturday (12), was very special. In addition to the 4-0 victory (sixth consecutive in the Brazilian Under-17 Championship), with goals from Matheus França (2), Matheus Gonçalves and Victor Hugo, Jhonata Ventura returned after two and a half years.
Having recovered, the defender was included in the squad by coach Mario Jorge and entered the field in the 39th minute of the second half. With the victory solidified, he delivered fine passes and performed well in attack. In the final minutes, he nearly converted a corner kick to score the fifth. It would have been the perfect scenario, but what really matters is being back.
"The beginning was really difficult, I even thought I would never step on a pitch again. A movie played in my head when Mario asked me to come on and I'm extremely happy, after all, I've been a Flamengo fan since I was a kid. Being with my teammates here again, being able to play a Brazilian Championship match, is something that leaves me speechless," he said, in an exclusive interview with the Mais Querido's official website.
The player celebrated the team's excellent performance in the national tournament, practically qualifying for the quarterfinals even with three rounds remaining in the group stage.
"We have a 100% record in the competition, and every team would like to be in our position. The group is very united, and the victory proves it. I want to thank the coach for his confidence in me for giving me an opportunity," he said.
When the topic turned to the World's Biggest Fanbase, Jhonata opened his heart and emphasized the importance of the support of over 42 million fans, especially in difficult times. A Flamengo fan at heart, he now wants to be a champion.
"The nation embraced me in an inexplicable way and I am very grateful for the energy that each fan sent me during these two years of recovery. They don't know it, but they made me laugh in many moments when I was sad. Now I will give my all to win a title with the Sacred Mantle," he concluded.