Guga on Fluminense start, respects Samuel Xavier: “Always dreamed of this” | OneFootball

Guga is enjoying a special moment at Fluminense. After qualifying on penalties against Independiente Rivadavia in the Copa Libertadores round of 16, the right-back spoke about his run as a starter and highlighted the importance of finally earning his place in the team.Since joining the club in 2023, Guga has been competing for a spot with Samuel Xavier. During that period, the No. 2 had to deal with competition from his teammate, who established himself as the starting right-back. In 2026, however, Guga managed to take over the role and, for the first time since being signed, became the first-choice player in the position.The player said he has always respected Samuel Xavier’s journey, but that he has worked since arriving to experience the moment he is currently going through.“I’ve always tried to experience this moment (being a starter) since I arrived at Fluminense. I’ve always had a lot of respect for Samuel Xavier’s starting spot, because he’s a guy who sets an example within the group. And I knew it wouldn’t be easy to earn this starting spot, but I always dreamed of it, I always worked for it, and I think the moment has come, and I’m doing everything I can to make the most of it in the best way possible.”The statement was made after Fluminense advanced in the Libertadores against Independiente Rivadavia. After a draw in regular time, Tricolor won the penalty shootout and secured qualification for the next stage of the competition.

Photo: Marcelo Gonçalves/FFC

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