A native of São Caetano do Sul, São Paulo, Michael Anderson Pereira da Silva, or simply Michael, arrived at Flamengo on January 23 of this year. A longtime dream of the club, the player was signed to fill the absence of Everton, a key player in the club's sixth Brazilian championship title, who was eventually sold to Mexican football. Slowly, and after experiencing setbacks, the player, who could have played at left back, managed to gain everyone's trust at Gávea and secured his place on the team, but in midfield.

In an exclusive interview with Flamengo's official website, Michael spoke about his experience at Dynamo Kyiv, a club he is still associated with, his early career, the recognition of the Flamengo fans, and other topics.

Follow the full chat with the player.

Debut at Flamengo
The life of a soccer player is always like that. When you least expect it, an opportunity presents itself. That's why it's important to dedicate yourself fully to training. That's what I did. I never gave up. I knew I needed to be ready when the opportunity arose. I worked hard and succeeded. I think I performed well and ended up getting more opportunities. We have a very qualified group, Brazilian champions. A player always has to be at his best to stay on the team.

Training with idols
I've had the opportunity to play with some big names at other clubs. At Palmeiras, I played with Edmundo. At Santos, with Kleber, Kleber Pereira, and Zé Roberto. But at Flamengo, it's impressive. They have Bruno, Léo Moura, Vagner Love, Petkovic, and Adriano, right? He's the Emperor, he's the man. Just seeing him in the locker room before training is motivating.

Left back or midfield
I started out playing wing, but my career took off when Caio Jr., at Palmeiras, put me at point guard. I came here to help out, and I can play any position. I think every player is like that. They just want to be on the field.

Previous experiences
I started at Corinthians. I spent two years in the youth team and then went to Palmeiras, where I stayed for three years. I played there for a year and a half in the youth team and eventually moved up to the senior team. I ended up being signed by Dynamo Kyiv, where I played for two seasons. I returned to Santos, stayed for six months, and then had to return to Ukraine. Last year I had a stint with their rivals (Botafogo), and then I arrived here. I have one more season (2011), but I hope to play more, God willing.

Champions League
I think everything in life serves as a learning experience. I even joke with people who ask me that. We played six games and lost six. Even so, it was a great thing to have played in that Champions League. The team didn't do well, but for my career, it was a unique experience.

Copa Libertadores
It's a very important competition for us. I was supposed to go to Caracas with the team, but a sinus infection forced me to miss the trip. I ended up being selected for last Thursday's game and was happy to make my debut. But I would trade all the happiness I felt for my performance for Flamengo's victory. I don't just think about myself. I think about the club, the group as a whole.

Fan recognition
I have no words. It was something I really didn't expect. I didn't expect to be recognized like that. Until then, the people who come to watch the training didn't know me, right? I'd walk by, and they'd keep asking who this guy was. This recognition I've received is really good. I see my work is paying off. This is the result of two months of hard work. I had the opportunity and I was able to take advantage of it. Here I am. I came to help Flamengo. Not to get in the way.