Gabriel Mec targets trophies: “I know this shirt's weight, no hesitation” | OneFootball

At his presentation, Gabriel Mec said he was “very happy and honored” to join a club he sees as a giant of European football. The player arrives at FC Porto determined to help win trophies and retain the national title.

Fully aware of the Dragons’ stature, the Brazilian readily accepted the challenge. “Everyone knows how great FC Porto is, a club that has won the Champions League twice and the most decorated in Portugal. I’m very happy to be part of all this, and when the opportunity came to move here, I didn’t think twice,” he said, describing the move as “a dream come true.”

Porto’s new signing also had a message for the fans: “I, Gabriel Mec, have come to add to the team. I know the weight of wearing this shirt. I will always give my all whenever I step onto the pitch.” The player did not hide his ambition and said his goals were to “win many trophies and defend the national title.”

As for his attributes, he describes himself as a versatile and “very dedicated” footballer, capable of playing anywhere from midfield to attack. “I’m a player who likes to improvise. I’m not afraid to make mistakes — I might get it wrong two or three times, but I’ll always try one more time,” he explained, also highlighting his comfort using both feet.

The young talent made his professional debut for Grêmio in January 2025 and draws inspiration from fellow Brazilians who made their mark at FC Porto, including Pepê and Mário Jardel, whom he considers “an idol.” “I followed their example and came in pursuit of my dream,” he confessed. Comparisons to Ronaldinho Gaúcho naturally please him, although he remains humble: “It’s Ronaldinho — we’re not talking about just any player. […] I’m trying to create my own image, Gabriel Mec’s.”

His journey to European football was marked by obstacles, experiences the player sees as important to his development. “I don’t think any player has an easy story in football; everyone goes through difficulties, and I believe that’s important for us to mature and grow as athletes and as people,” reflected the forward, recalling the contribution of coach Luís Castro and assistant Vítor Severino during his development.

FC Porto’s new player has already faced a Portuguese team, at the Under-17 World Cup, when he came up against the national side. “We faced a great team, very strong and technical. They were the winners of the World Cup, and I believe they deserved it,” he recalled. Now, he is eagerly awaiting his debut on the Dragão pitch. “I’m so eager to play here. Just looking at the stadium already gives me goosebumps. I can only imagine the stadium full, with everyone singing,” he admitted.

An international for Brazil’s youth teams, Gabriel Mec also says it is his dream to represent his country’s senior national team. “Brazil is the greatest national team in the world […]. I’m going to work so that one day I can reach the senior national team,” he concluded.

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