Playing for Flamengo's first team is a dream for many. When the opportunity arises, you have to seize each training session as if it were your last. Since the State Championship, Vanderlei Luxemburgo has used some of the youth players to give the Gávea youth team experience. And they've made the most of it. Matheus Sávio, Douglas Baggio, and Jajá were called up for the week of training in the interior of São Paulo, and their dedication and commitment have been their guiding light. It's worth remembering that Red-Black Nation also invests in grassroots football. Click here, become a fan member and help Flamengo develop more talents for professional football.

"It's a great opportunity to be able to work with the professional group this whole week; it gives us experience. We have to embrace it with all our strength, because it's very important for us, as we're moving up," emphasizes Matheus Sávio. Douglas Baggio echoes his roommate. "Being here involves a lot. It's a unique opportunity; it's about making the most of it, moving up with humility, but always showing service. Dedicating myself to training, alongside my teammates, and helping the coach in any way I can," he said. 

Called up for the Brazilian U-20 National TeamJajá also sees the opportunity as good preparation before donning the green and yellow jersey. "Having been called up to the U-20 national team, it's important to work on my physical and technical skills, perform well at the presentation, and be on the final roster," he analyzed.

On Monday night (May 04.05th), they were baptized by their teammates during dinner. As a joke, they were asked to introduce themselves and explain what it meant to be there with the group. The three took the opportunity to thank the coach. The next day, the baptism took place on the field, before the physical training session led by Antônio Mello.

"It's a different feeling; everyone dreams of this. I was a little embarrassed. I'll try to give my best. I'm in the U-20 category, but if I get the opportunity to play professionally again, I'll grab it and give my best to stay here," Matheus Sávio assured.

"It was a good game. It always goes to the younger players (laughs). It was cool, I was glad I introduced myself to the group, and I hope they welcome me," said Baggio. Besides being happy with the reception, Jajá recalled the support he received from the more experienced players. "Now it's time to work hard to establish myself as a professional. The athletes give us a lot of attention, like Wallace, Márcio Araújo, Pico, and Samir," he thanked.

The squad's physical trainer, Antônio Mello, praised the work done in the youth teams, which is in line with the professional team. According to him, the youngsters learn from an early age what it means to wear the Sacred Mantle and how to deal with the pressure.

"The boys are adapted to our training system because, last year, the youth team's physical trainer, Diogo, brought us closer to the athletes. Diogo's physical training is very similar to mine. Zé Ricardo is also very close to Vanderlei and has reestablished a stronger professional bond so these boys understand how our environment works. Furthermore, Flamengo youth players are born with the Flamengo face. From a young age, they are prepared for victory, conquest, and to understand the demands the club places on them," he said.

Matheus Sávio's teammates, Jajá and Douglas Baggio, will play their debut in the U-20 Rio Cup this Wednesday at 15 p.m. in Gávea. team is champion of the Guanabara Cup.