Bap backs Wallace Yan as Jardim readies bigger Flamengo role | OneFootball

Leonardo Jardim’s arrival has sharpened Flamengo’s plan for Wallace Yan to step up, with the 21-year-old viewed as Pedro’s immediate deputy. The club opted against signing a centre-forward in early 2026 to hand him minutes.

"Acho que esse ano o Wallace Yan vai arrebentar, joga em qualquer posição da frente, é rápido, tem fôlego", said Bap on Flamengo TV’s Mengocast.

Jardim has publicly praised Wallace Yan and intends to give him greater scope. The Portuguese wants faster attacking transitions and sees the forward’s pace as a key asset, even likening his profile to Bruno Henrique. He has spoken to the player and the FIFA window could help implement the plan.

To date, Wallace has made two late cameos under Jardim, with the cautious use linked to limited action earlier in 2026 and a lack of rhythm. Staff have also noted growing maturity, with mental work sharpening his daily focus.

In January the football department agreed a sale to Red Bull Bragantino, but Bap blocked it over payment terms and because he believes the youngster can develop at Flamengo.

Confident Wallace can be relevant in 2026, Flamengo did not rush the search for a centre-forward. They explored Kaio Jorge and Richarlison, then eased off after committing R$ 260 million to Lucas Paquetá.

"Quantos grandes centroavantes existem no mundo disponível para a gente contratar? O centroavante que queremos é de €32 milhões a €40 milhões, isso para ser reserva do Pedro."

Source: Globo.com