Flamengo has its own Drogba
With a new hairstyle, Diego Maurício is the Ivory Coast striker's double in Gávea
By From the team at Flamengo's official website - in
It is not new that Flamengo's professional players usually nickname athletes recently promoted from the youth teamsAnd the new target of jokes within the red-and-black squad is Diego Maurício. The striker returned with a new hairstyle, braids, and soon received a new nickname: Didier Drogba, striker for Chelsea, England, and the Ivory Coast national team.
One of the most playful players in the group, defender David explains that, much more than just a joke, this type of interaction with the youngsters coming up from the youth ranks helps them adapt more quickly to the professional level.
"They end up getting closer. We joke around and help with whatever is needed. I think our atmosphere is very good and helps when the player steps up," he explained.
And there's no better time to talk about Drogba from Gávea than on the day of Brazil's match against Ivory Coast in the World Cup in South Africa. While the Brazilian national team will be concerned about the original Drogba, Diego Maurício will watch the match in Rio, rooting for Brazil. Happy with the quick adaptation, he praises the group.
"I'm very happy. It's a dream come true to be at Flamengo, and this group is great. Everyone made me feel very good. I'm also happy for my teammates from the youth academy who, like me, are in the professional team. I'm sure we can help Flamengo," he said.
Diego is 18 years old and was promoted to the professional team the week of the match against Barueri. Since then, he has had regular opportunities to play in games. He has played five matches, but the number 49 has yet to find the net as a professional.
One of the most playful players in the group, defender David explains that, much more than just a joke, this type of interaction with the youngsters coming up from the youth ranks helps them adapt more quickly to the professional level.
"They end up getting closer. We joke around and help with whatever is needed. I think our atmosphere is very good and helps when the player steps up," he explained.
And there's no better time to talk about Drogba from Gávea than on the day of Brazil's match against Ivory Coast in the World Cup in South Africa. While the Brazilian national team will be concerned about the original Drogba, Diego Maurício will watch the match in Rio, rooting for Brazil. Happy with the quick adaptation, he praises the group.
"I'm very happy. It's a dream come true to be at Flamengo, and this group is great. Everyone made me feel very good. I'm also happy for my teammates from the youth academy who, like me, are in the professional team. I'm sure we can help Flamengo," he said.
Diego is 18 years old and was promoted to the professional team the week of the match against Barueri. Since then, he has had regular opportunities to play in games. He has played five matches, but the number 49 has yet to find the net as a professional.