OneFootball
Seamus Leonard·5 July 2022
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Seamus Leonard·5 July 2022
Teenager Victor Hugo insists he is happy to play wherever Flamengo need him as he looks to establish himself as a first-team player.
The 18-year-old is more noted as an attacking midfielder, but he impressed in a holding role during the Rubro-Negro’s 2-1 win over Santos at the weekend.
With Andreas Pereira’s loan spell from Manchester United now over, there is more chance for Hugo to get minutes in what appears to be a breakthrough season for him.
Manager Dorival Júnior was effusive with praise after Hugo’s 68-minute display at Vila Belmiro, where he was eventually replaced by Giorgian de Arrascaeta as the Mengão pushed for the winner that came from another substitute Gabriel Barbosa.
Speaking to Globo Esporte about his situation, Hugo said: “Andreas is a star and will definitely shine again in Europe.
“I had already trained at the base a few times in that role, coming more from behind, and that certainly helped me in this last game.
“Professor Dorival told me what he wanted from me. He gave me complete confidence, and I tried to do my best.
“I felt good, and I’m still available to help the team wherever they need it.”
He will have to wait and see if Júnior’s faith extends to picking the emerging star for Wednesday’s crucial Copa Libertadores round of 16 tie against Tolima.
Fla hold a 1-0 advantage from last week’s energy-sapping first leg in Colombia.
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