Leonardo Jardim hails Flamengo youngster Evertton Araújo after 2-1 win, says he could thrive in Europe | OneFootball

Evertton Araújo drew warm praise from coach Leonardo Jardim after Flamengo’s 2-1 victory over Fluminense on Sunday 12 April, with the manager saying the 22-year-old has the potential to play in Europe.

According to Coluna Do Fla, absences for Erick Pulgar and Jorginho have opened a run in the side for the academy graduate, who has started four in a row against Corinthians, Santos, Cusco (PER) and Fluminense. He was sent off in the Corinthians match.

Against Fluminense he completed 90 minutes and took the game’s first shot in the third minute. He registered 71 actions on the ball, committed one foul, made eight recoveries and five clearances.

Jardim said he liked the midfielder from the outset, told him chances would arrive and urged him to avoid cheap turnovers and play forward. He described Araújo as a profile that succeeds in Europe, citing his physical capacity, ball-carrying and strength in duels.

The coach added that Araújo has been one of Flamengo’s most consistent performers of late, highlighting his work rate, humility and example to other young players. He noted the number of matches already under the player’s belt and said he was satisfied.

Araújo also played the full match away to Cusco (PER), then backed up in the derby three days later.

With Pulgar and Jorginho still doubts, Araújo should stay in the starting line-up on Thursday 16 against Independiente de Medellín (COL) at the Maracanã, kick-off 21:30 Brasília time, in the second round of Group A of the Copa Libertadores da América.

Source: Coluna Do Fla