Flamengo’s Samuel Lino reveals Memphis Depay chat: "He said…" | OneFootball

Striker says returning early from Europe is not a problem, and so, Samuel Lino chose Flamengo

Samuel Lino emphasized that returning to Brazilian football was not a step back, when he revealed he had met Dutchman Memphis Depay, from Corinthians, on vacation. The new signing of Flamengo made the statement during a press conference on Friday (1), one day after his official debut.

— A month ago I told my mother: 'imagine me returning to Brazil, close to family'. I never thought about age, I think the Brazilian market has grown a lot. You saw it in the World Cup. I played against Botafogo in the last round and they gave us a hard time. They also have a lot of quality. Brazil is experiencing a gigantic growth. I met Memphis when I was on vacation in São Paulo and he said that football was growing, the structure and everything -, highlighted the striker.

After six seasons in European football, with appearances in the Champions League, the 25-year-old athlete expressed his desire to win trophies for Flamengo and seek a spot in the Brazilian National Team for the 2026 World Cup.

— After Flamengo showed interest I didn't think I was young and should stay in Europe. I tell my agent, Flamengo is a gigantic club in Brazil. If it were in Europe it would also fight for titles. I never thought about age or being young. When the project is good and will make you grow, show your football and what you love and know how to do, there is no age -, said the number 16.

How many more have arrived at Flamengo?

In addition to Lino, the club has already officially signed Saúl Ñíguez, Emerson Royal and Jorge Carrascal, who awaits official announcement. However, the football department maintains interest in striker Lucas Beltrán, from Fiorentina (ITA).

When is Flamengo's next game?

While the board keeps an eye on the market, Flamengo remains focused on the next commitments of the season. This Sunday (03), Filipe Luís's team faces Ceará, at 6:30 pm (Brasília time), at Castelão, for the 18th round of the championship. Thus, as tradition dictates, Coluna do Fla will bring all the details about the match.

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