Another young talent to be polished in the first team.
A standout in the youth ranks, midfielder João Vitor will be observed during Flamengo's preseason in Londrina.
By From the official website team - inJoão Vitor was enjoying his end-of-year break with his family in Minas Gerais, his home state, when the phone rang. He didn't know it, but on the other end of the line came news that made the start of 2011 even happier: he had been called up to join Flamengo's professional team and travel to Londrina, where the team was holding its pre-season training.
At 19 years old, João has been standing out since his youth days at Flamengo. He gained prominence in the junior team, forming a highly praised midfield duo with Luiz Antônio. A player with strong marking and quality in ball distribution, he will be observed by the coaching staff in Paraná.
"I was very happy, even surprised. I was in Minas Gerais, spending the end of the year, and they told me about the presentation to the professional team. I didn't even sleep, to tell you the truth. It's a dream come true. Now it's about continuing to work, trying to get some games and managing to stay in the professional group," said João.
The player knows that the youth academy is being closely monitored by Vanderlei Luxemburgo and his assistants, and he expresses confidence in doing a good job, like Diego Maurício and Galhardo, for example, his former junior teammates, in order to remain in the first team.
"I know Galhardo well, he came up and did a good job. Diego too. This helps those who are in the youth system. Everyone gets more motivated and tries to show what they can do. Thank God I'm here. Whatever comes, I'll do my best to help Flamengo," commented the defensive midfielder, who was even happier to have the approval of a renowned coach like Luxa.
"Without a doubt, for me it's a differentiating factor to know that coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo approved the promotion. He's been following the youth team and now it's about doing everything to live up to expectations," he concluded.
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