Friendship is a natural part of being human. Affinities and shared experiences result in lasting and true partnerships, which always help in decisive moments. Young players Jajá and Jorge can confirm this. The fruits of their years together in Flamengo's youth academy are beginning to be reaped in both of their careers.

The full-back and the midfielder, in addition to playing together in the youth categories, also reached the Brazilian U-20 National Team at the same time. They were promoted to the professional team of Flamengo at the same time and, little by little, are earning their places. Jajá, who this Sunday may have his first opportunity in the starting lineup at the Maracanã, doesn't hide his happiness at taking the field alongside his great friend.

"I'm very happy about my professional debut, and as a starter, at the Maracanã. It's a dream I've wanted to fulfill since I was little," he stated. For the midfielder, the connection with the number 36 jersey increases his expectations.

"I've been playing alongside Jorge since we were in the youth teams. This could be the first time I get to play with him at the Maracanã, with him as a starter. My expectations are high, and I hope to have a great game," he said.

"We've been pursuing this goal since we were kids here at Flamengo. We know the weight of being at a big club, and even more so at the professional level. So, we're always focused on the games where we have opportunities. I started playing regularly a little earlier, but I've always been hoping to have him [Jajá] by my side. As he said, it could be my first opportunity to play at the 'Maraca' as a professional. We've played together since we were little, and the understanding is very strong. We'll have the opportunity to play together and help the team in the best way possible," he said. And, according to the full-back, friendship is a strength in their careers.

"Being together since we were little helps us pursue our goals. It's always good. We played in a World Cup together for the Under-20 National Team. We have a friendship, not only on the field but also off it, and that helps a lot with our teamwork," he analyzes. Jorge expects a good game from the team against Goiás this Sunday (November 08.11th). "Tomorrow the fans will be with us at the Maracanã in another important game that we need to win," he concluded.