New giant-killer in Xerém: Crystian Gabriel on derbies and dreams

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Saudações Tricolores.com

·7 de noviembre de 2025

New giant-killer in Xerém: Crystian Gabriel on derbies and dreams

At just 15 years old, midfielder Crystian Gabriel has been drawing attention in Fluminense's youth academy. A left-footer, originally from Paracatu (MG), the young player arrived in Xerém in 2021 when he was only 11 years old, and today he is one of the highlights of the Under-15 team.

In the Copa Rio Under-15, Crystian scored six goals in 13 games, with four of them in classic matches: three in Fla-Flus (in the group stage and both semifinals) and one against Vasco, Fluminense's opponent in the grand final.

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In an exclusive interview with Saudações Tricolores, the number 11 celebrated his good form and spoke about the thrill of being decisive in classic matches.

“I am very happy. It's a great feeling to score in classic matches, helping the team and seeing the fans celebrate. Classics have a special flavor, it's the most intense game. Everyone loves it. It's a different kind of happiness,” the player said.

In 2025, Crystian has already won the Taça Guanabara and the Morozov Cup, both undefeated. The tricolor squad also includes two teammates who were South American champions with the Brazilian Under-15 National Team: midfielder Vitinho and forward Jean Carlos.

Asked about the possibility of following in his friends' footsteps and wearing the Brazilian jersey, the midfielder showed maturity and focus.

“I am working hard every day. I hope that one day I can achieve the goal of being called up. The players who are there are very good, they always help the team. Their call-up was well deserved. We will keep working hard, and God willing, the right time will come,” he stated.

Crystian defines himself as a creative midfielder who likes to participate in the build-up of plays but also has a knack for scoring goals.

“The secret is to enter the field calmly, without pressure, and with happiness. I always follow my father's advice, who tells me to play calmly and lightly, and everything will happen. I prefer to set up the play, get the ball, and find my teammates. But whenever there's an opening near the area, I shoot for the goal. Thank God, I'm managing to score,” he said.

The young player also spoke about his journey in Xerém and highlighted the importance of the training center in his personal and professional development.

“Fluminense is very important to me. When I came here, I became more mature and met many professionals who help me become a better person. Every day I learn new things. The structure in Xerém is very good. I am very happy to have been here for so long and have a great affection for this huge club.”

Fluminense faces Vasco this Saturday (11/8), at 9 am, at the Nivaldo Pereira Stadium, for the first leg of the Copa Rio Under-15 final. With Crystian in great form and decisive in classic matches, the Tricolor is in pursuit of another title this season.

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