Lucas Paquetá says he needed Flamengo as midfielder arrives in Rio | OneFootball

Lucas Paquetá landed at Galeão Airport on Thursday, becoming Flamengo’s third addition of 2026, and spoke emotionally on arrival.

"I am very anxious, I will not lie, I want to be able to play soon," he told Flamengo TV.

"I know maybe Flamengo did not need me, but I needed Flamengo, and I am very happy to see all the affection you always had for me. I think you identify with me, because I feel like one of you on the pitch."

"What I can promise is this will not change, my heart is red and black and I will show that on the pitch."

He flew to Rio on Wednesday night and arrived late on Thursday morning. Outside the terminal, the midfielder embraced waiting supporters.

He will undergo medical tests, sign his contract and still needs to be registered on the CBF’s BID before he can play. Flamengo hope to have him available on Sunday against Corinthians in the Supercopa do Brasil final, scheduled for 16:00 Brasília time at Estádio Mané Garrincha.

Flamengo have agreed a deal with West Ham worth 42 million euros (R$ 260 million), with a five-year contract for the Ninho graduate.

Source: Coluna Do Fla