From striker to centre-back: how Trieste shaped Flamengo's Léo Pereira | OneFootball

Trieste coordinator revealed how Léo Pereira, now a Flamengo center back, began his career as a striker

Léo Pereira is in his seventh straight season with Flamengo, as one of the club’s most successful players. For some Flamengo fans, the defender is considered an idol, but he did not always play at center back. That is because, in Trieste’s youth ranks, the current number 4 started his career as a striker.

What was Léo Pereira’s path like before Flamengo?

– Léo Pereira arrived here as a midfielder and striker. He played very well at that time as a striker. And he really liked it. He scored goals and had strong technical ability. He grew quickly. At that age, between 12 and 13, he hit a very high growth curve — said Trieste-PR coordinator Ricardo Vargas.

– We started convincing him to play further back. We realized that if he stayed as a striker, he would not be as successful. Little by little he became a defensive midfielder, full-back, and then a center back, where he stood out even at a younger age — the club official told TMC Paraná.

What has Léo Pereira’s journey at Flamengo been like?

Léo Pereira arrived at Mengão in 2020, after a direct deal with Athletico-PR for 7 million euros (around R$ 34.2 million). Since arriving, the defender has made 314 appearances, scored 19 goals, and provided six assists in Flamengo’s shirt. As a result, the center back established himself as an undisputed starter in defenses put together by different coaches over the years.

How many titles has Léo Pereira won with Flamengo?

Léo Pereira has won 15 titles with Flamengo and trails only Arrascaeta and Bruno Henrique, who have 18 each. Therefore, the center back has surpassed historic idols such as Zico, Júnior, and Gabigol, who each have 13 titles.

Did Léo Pereira play in the World Cup for the national team?

Léo Pereira was part of the Brazil squad that played in the 2026 World Cup. Even without being a starter for the Seleção, his presence at the tournament contrasts with the period of criticism he faced early in his time at the Most Beloved.

What is José Boto’s intention regarding Léo Pereira’s contract renewal?

José Boto has already revealed his intention to renew with Léo Pereira and placed the center back next in line right after Pedro. Thus, the club has already turned down offers, for example from Beşiktaş (TUR) for the defender, including one worth 10 million euros (around R$ 59 million).

When and where is Flamengo’s next match?

Flamengo face Independiente del Valle (EQU) this Thursday (10) starting at 9:30 p.m. Brasília time. Therefore, the match will take place in Quito, at Estádio Olímpico Atahualpa, in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals. As such, Léo Pereira is expected to remain a starter in Flamengo’s defense for this decisive clash as well.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.