Dream come true! Vitinho is introduced and gives a press conference at Ninho do Urubu
The striker trained with his teammates before speaking to reporters in the press room
By João Pedro Granette and Nathan Mello - in
Striker Vitinho was officially introduced to the press on Monday afternoon at the George Helal Training Center - Ninho do Urubu, in a press conference alongside Flamengo president Eduardo Bandeira de Mello, vice president of football Ricardo Lomba, and executive director of football Carlos Noval. After training with his new teammates this morning, scoring a goal in the training session, and wearing the number 14 jersey, the striker declared he was living his "boyhood dream."
"It's a true childhood dream. I always told everyone in my family that one day I would play for Flamengo. Thank God this moment has arrived, and I'm so happy to have this dream come true. I'm a Flamengo fan and I know how the fans feel. I'm dying to play, let off steam, and bring all the joy to these fans."
Vitinho arrived in Rio de Janeiro yesterday afternoon and went straight from the airport to Maracanã Stadium, where he watched Mengão's rout of Sport. At halftime, he received a standing ovation from nearly 60 fans when he entered the field. In this afternoon's press conference at the training center, the new signing commented on the fans' reception.
"It was incredible! I had no words, I was so emotional and I couldn't even cry, because I had cried before. The support and affection from everyone was incredible. I thank Flamengo, the fans and I hope to reciprocate this affection."
A self-confessed Flamengo fan, Vitinho also mentioned the most emblematic moment for him back in the days when he was just a “kid” and watched the Mais Querido’s achievements on TV.
"The most memorable thing was when Pet scored that free kick goal against Vasco. I was at home and it was a huge thrill. The family threw a party and it made me want to play for Flamengo even more. I'll never forget it!"
Check out other topics from Vitinho's press conference at his Flamengo presentation below:
Thanks to the board
"I'm very grateful to the president, to Noval, who participated extensively and helped us reach CSKA in the best possible way. Bruno supported us and showed us the way. The vice president was important to me; I felt at ease. It was a dream of mine. Every time I came to see Vinicius and Flamengo play, I got goosebumps and dreamed of this happening. I never imagined it would be so close. Thank God everything worked out, and I'll prepare to be at Barbieri's disposal as soon as possible."
Negotiation with CSKA
"At first, I wasn't involved; it was through my agent. I heard about their interest and was happy. Time was running out; we knew it wouldn't be easy, especially since I'd had a good season, and the club wouldn't accept my departure so easily. Thank God, Noval and Bruno handled things right, and everything flowed smoothly. In the final moments, I made my move. Knowing about the opportunity and that coming to Flamengo was my dream, they understood. They were a little sad, but I was very happy to know that things were moving forward and that they understood my feelings."
Selection of shirt 14
“They gave me the numbers they had for the Libertadores and I had two numbers to choose from. This number is close to the one I like to play with, which is 11. That's not a problem, I want to get on the field and wear the shirt, the number is the least important thing at this moment.”
Anxiety about the debut
"The hard part is more about the game. A big team like Grêmio. Regarding the time zone, we adapt, and I'm dying to play. Nothing else is going on in my head. I'm so eager to debut that if they need me, I'll be available to help Flamengo."
Play style
"Defensive and offensive strength, consistency—that's what sustains Flamengo. Flamengo's technical prowess is immense. They have quality players, and that facilitates the team's play. Vinicius played on the wing, and I like to play there. My style of play is to go forward, shoot, and create goal-scoring opportunities."
Physical form
"I'm available to Barbieri for whatever he needs. I trained, and he gave me tips. Whatever he needs for the next game, I'm ready."
Chat with the coach
"He guided me on the field regarding situations Flamengo was playing so I could fit into the marking and attack. He praised me. I'm happy with this first contact with the team."
Dispute over ownership
"Vinicius's style was working. I studied it to be able to perform well. We have a very good squad, there are a lot of players who could play, and I came to fight for a spot. Marlos played well yesterday, and Sávio also has quality. It will be a healthy battle. I was well received, and we'll get along very well and as quickly as possible."
Believe until the end
"Like all children, I had a dream, and the fact that I believed in it and my family supported me. I had this support, and I'm grateful to everyone, especially God, for the moments that brought me here. It's great to come from a community, because children have to believe in their dreams to achieve them. Support is essential. You have to have someone to give you a push. That was the most important thing for me: my family is with me. Those who come from a community have dreams and can make them come true."
Experience in Europe
"The Champions League was a great experience. I got to experience the high level of European football firsthand. Having contact like this is incredibly beneficial for gaining playing experience, especially with great players. I've matured and am learning more and more; I'm more mature than when I left here. This experience of playing abroad helps a lot and has helped me grow a lot. I have a dream and a goal; the national team is definitely another one I intend to achieve. Every day, every game, I have to be at my best and help my Flamengo teammates."
Champion in CSKA's farewell
"I have a lot of friends there, and the club gave me the opportunity. I wanted to leave on good terms, through the front door. I wanted to leave my life there for my teammates, because they were all crucial. I wanted to play well, score goals, and thank God I was champion, leaving that lasting impression on everyone."