With the recent departures of Adriano and Vagner Love, Flamengo's attacking spots have become open for youngsters from the youth academy. Diego Maurício has already been given opportunities, Vinícius Pacheco has been playing in a makeshift role, but the one who has benefited most from the situation is Paulo Sérgio. The young striker, who had been training away from the group, has not only been reinstated but also earned a starting spot in coach Rogério Lourenço's squad. Quite a fresh start for the number 33 from Gávea.

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The player is excited and knows he still needs to show his best football on the professional team, but he guarantees that, with a sequence of games, he can bring a lot of joy to the red-blacks.

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"As I've been saying, it's a fresh start for me. I'm very happy with this opportunity and I'm doing my best to give it my best shot. Of course, I still need to improve, I need a run of games, but I believe it can be useful. I've come back more mature, but I need a run of games. I miss my match rhythm; I haven't played for seven months, but I'm recovering by playing. The ball gets away a bit and my dribbling isn't as good," he said.

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It's worth remembering that Flamengo's next opponent in the Brasileirão, on July 14th, brings back fond memories for Paulo Sérgio. It was against Botafogo, in a 2-2 draw on May 27th, 2007, that he scored his first professional goal.

"When players come, our situation becomes difficult, but it also becomes a good fight. Everyone will try to find their place. Whoever comes to the club will be there to help, to strengthen the squad. We want a stronger squad, but I'm here to help the team. I think I have what it takes to be a starter for Flamengo," he added.

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