The afternoon of this Friday (16) brought very important news for the red-blacks and especially for goalkeeper Alex Muralha. The first call-up of Flamengo's number 38 is news, but not a surprise: whoever sees the giant's performances in the Mais Querido games knows that it is pure merit.

After a great spell at Figueirense, Alex arrived at Flamengo at the beginning of 2016. A starter since the 5th round of the Brasileirão, in the 2-1 victory over Ponte Preta, the number 38 demonstrated quality, confidence and consistency that caught the attention of Tite, coach of the Brazilian National Team.

With the resources of the Nação Rubro-Negra program, Flamengo is able to continually strengthen its squad. Alex Muralha is a Flamengo fan thanks to its fan club members! Click here and be proud to make Flamengo even stronger.

The red-black showed his gratitude and revealed that he was living an old dream. 

"I want to thank God, my family, and everyone who helped me get here today. This is a very special moment in my life," he said. 

"I'm very happy to have been called up, it was something I dreamed about since I was a kid. Today I'm able to make it happen and it's a huge deal for me," he added.

The call-up breaks an important record for the Mais Querido. He is the first Flamengo player called up to the Brazilian national team – in an official competition – since July 2010, when Kléberson was mentioned by then-coach Dunga. Among goalkeepers, Alex Muralha breaks an even longer record: the last Flamengo player called up was Júlio César, who played in the 2004 Copa América while wearing the Manto Sagrado.

The goalkeeper did not hide the importance of Flamengo in reaching the next step in his career. 

"Given its greatness and history, Flamengo was fundamental in this call-up. I can only thank my teammates and the people involved. It's the result of everyone's hard work," he said. 

For Muralha, his performance is a reflection of the team's good form. 

"This good moment made this happen. I have to thank the Nation very much, which always supports us in times of need. 'We're together,' we're closed!" he thanked.