Walter Montillo says he nearly joined Flamengo on several occasions | OneFootball

Walter Montillo has revealed he came close to joining Flamengo several times, though moves ultimately fell through, including during his spell in China.

"Corinthians were the ones who came close, but Flamengo were always there at the door and it never worked out. There were several times it did not work with Flamengo. When I was in China, Flamengo tried as well, but the Chinese would not let me leave. Flamengo were always very close," he told ESPN.

Montillo caught the eye in 2010. In the Copa Libertadores quarter-finals against Flamengo, the Argentine midfielder lobbed goalkeeper Bruno for Universidad de Chile, confirming the Brazilians’ exit and sending the Chileans into the semi-finals.

That year Flamengo attempted to sign him, but he joined Cruzeiro instead. He later moved to Santos, with Flamengo trying again to prise him away. In 2014 he left for China, where he played until 2016, with Flamengo maintaining interest.

Montillo never pulled on the Flamengo shirt and retired in 2020 with Universidad de Chile. He won six caps for Argentina’s senior side and featured at the 2003 Under-20 World Cup. He is 41.

Source: Coluna Do Fla