Evertton Araújo recalls Botafogo and Cruzeiro exits as resilience pays off at Flamengo | OneFootball

Evertton Araújo has emerged as a key presence for Flamengo, a rise built on resilience after academy rejections, a serious 2023 injury and a near-loan exit.

According to Globo.com, he began at four, joined Roberto Dinamite’s school at six and earned a Volta Redonda under-13 spot, often cycling 25 minutes to training.

He was released by Cruzeiro at under-15 and Botafogo at under-17, then did not pass trials at América or Coritiba. Back at Volta Redonda he became a holding midfielder and worked as a barber.

Eye-catching 2022 Copinha displays led to a four-month loan at Flamengo, then a purchase of 30% of his rights for R$ 300,000. In December 2023 a further 40% cost R$ 800,000, with 30% kept by him and his staff.

Opportunities followed, first under Filipe Luís then under Leonardo Jardim, after injuries elsewhere left midfield short. He had been close to a loan but seized his chance following an April 2023 setback.

He felt overlooked after ageing out of under-20, with many ahead of him, yet valued any minute or training invite and wanted to stay. He frames his story around constant improvement and overcoming adversity.

He shared his journey at the Flamengo Academy finale, crediting staff and team-mates for daily learning. The second half could bring fiercer competition as the squad returns, and coaches will have a selection call to make. He says the group are aligned and focused on chasing more trophies step by step.

Source: Globo.com