Zico backs Lucas Paquetá amid early Flamengo scrutiny | OneFootball

Zico has defended Lucas Paquetá amid scrutiny over his early displays at Flamengo, who made the biggest signing in their history to bring him back in the last transfer window.

"The differences in football we all feel, in daily work, in training and in matches. There is no such thing as football being faster there and slower here. Today almost everything is similar across the world, what changes is playing a long time in one position and then having to adapt to another," Zico said, speaking to ESPN.

"It depends on what the coach wants. His quality is unquestionable and he is trying to adapt to a new role, and I like him in midfield. We cannot demand from a player because of his value or the fee, but for what he shows on the pitch."

The midfielder spent more than three years with West Ham in England and asked to return to Flamengo. The clubs reached an agreement and he rejoined for 42 million euros (R$ 260 million) in the last window.

Since then, the No 20 has played 14 matches for Flamengo, scoring four goals.

He was not called up by Brazil for this FIFA window, so he remains available to head coach Leonardo Jardim for upcoming training.

Flamengo return after the break on 2 April against Red Bull Bragantino at Estádio Cicero de Souza Marques. Kick-off is 21:30 Brasília time in the ninth round of the Brasileirão.

Source: Coluna Do Fla