New star in Xerém: Crystian Gabriel on derby goals and Seleção dream

In partnership with

Saudações Tricolores.com

·7 novembre 2025

New star in Xerém: Crystian Gabriel on derby goals and Seleção dream

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

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

OneFootball Video

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

“I’m very happy. It’s a great feeling to score in derbies, helping the team and seeing the fans celebrate. Derbies have a special flavor, it’s a tougher game. Everyone loves it. It’s a different kind of happiness,” said the player.

Xerém, RJ, Brazil – 11/01/2025 – Marcelo Vieira Stadium.

Fluminense faces Flamengo in the semifinal of the 2025 Copa Rio Under-15.

PHOTO: LEONARDO BRASIL / FLUMINENSE F.C.

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 Brazil Under-15 National Team: midfielder Vitinho and forward Jean Carlos.

Asked about the possibility of following in his friends’ footsteps and wearing the Yellow Jersey, the midfielder showed maturity and focus.

“I’m 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’ll keep working hard, and if God wills, the right time will come,” he said.

Xerém, RJ, Brazil – 11/01/2025 – Marcelo Vieira Stadium.

Fluminense faces Flamengo in the semifinal of the 2025 Copa Rio Under-15.

PHOTO: LEONARDO BRASIL / FLUMINENSE F.C.

Crystian describes himself as a creative midfielder who likes to be involved in building plays, but who also has a nose for goal.

“The secret is to go out on the field calm, without pressure, and with happiness. I always follow my father’s advice, who tells me to play calmly, 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 box, I shoot for goal. Thank God, I’ve been able to score,” he said.

The youngster also spoke about his journey at 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 at Xerém is very good. I’m very happy to have been here for so long and I have a great affection for this huge club.”

Xerém, RJ, Brazil – 11/01/2025 – Marcelo Vieira Stadium.

Fluminense faces Flamengo in the semifinal of the 2025 Copa Rio Under-15.

PHOTO: LEONARDO BRASIL / FLUMINENSE F.C.

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

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