Belé hailed by Abel at Palmeiras amid European interest after first senior goal | OneFootball

Erick Belé, 19, marked his first senior goal as Palmeiras beat Jacuipense 4-1 on Wednesday to reach the Copa do Brasil last 16. The attacking midfielder called it the most special moment of his career so far.

According to Globo.com, Belé, the number 45, had been training with the first team while playing for the under-20s, and earned a start against Jacuipense. He had not featured since February in the Paulistão, using youth matches to stay sharp.

Head coach Abel Ferreira praised the academy and Belé after the tie. Despite only four appearances in 2026, the youngster says daily work with the main squad at the Academia de Futebol has been crucial as he pushes for minutes.

At the club since under-11 and involved with Brazil’s youth set-up, Belé is viewed as a high-potential talent. In the last window he received enquiries from Italy, with Parma signalling interest, though talks did not progress.

He is currently pursuing Italian citizenship, which could facilitate a future move to Europe. Palmeiras are in no hurry, backing his development and eyeing him as a potential significant sale.

Belé’s contract runs until December 2028 and includes a 100 million euro release clause, listed at R$ 584 million.

Source: Globo.com