Zico interviews Raul Plassmann and Rossi and discusses the evolution of goalkeepers at Flamengo

This week, former Barcelona and PSG player Rafinha Alcântara appeared on the "Charla Podcast" and commented on his desire to play for Flamengo, the club he considers dear to his heart. The son of World Cup winner Mazinho, Rafinha said he was open to a possible return to Brazilian football , but has not made any concrete decisions at this time.

" I still haven't played in Brazil, but I'm still open to it, you never know . Specifically, Flamengo. Everyone knows I'm a Flamengo fan," said the midfielder, highlighting the influence of his Vasco-supporting father on his childhood.

CHILDHOOD AND INFLUENCES

Rafinha explained how, despite his family's Vasco da Gama tradition, he decided to support Flamengo as a child. During a Fla-Flu match, when he was about seven years old, he entered the field accompanied by players like Júlio César and Athirson, and was captivated by the red-and-black fans.

" I walked into a packed Maracanã stadium, with the Flamengo fans going crazy for the Fla-Flu match, and I said , 'I want to be that.' From then on, it was all talk at home: 'We're Flamengo fans, Dad,'" the midfielder recalled. This remarkable experience was crucial for the emotional bond with the "Most Beloved," which remains to this day.

CONTACT WITH FLAMENGO

When asked about a possible deal with Flamengo , Rafinha revealed that there were talks with the Rio de Janeiro club in 2017 , around the same time the club signed Everton Ribeiro. The player assessed that, even without completing the deal, his career choice was the right one.

" At that time, I had meetings with Flamengo, but I chose the path I followed . It was the right decision at the time," commented the former athlete, who still admires Mengão and considers the possibility of a return in the future.

In an interview with journalist André Hernan, midfielder Andreas Pereira , currently with Palmeiras and a former Flamengo player, commented on his expectations for the match against Mengão. The player, who was marked by a mistake in the Libertadores final against the green and white team , assured that he will not hide his celebration if he scores against his former club.

"If I score, I'm here at Palmeiras. Everything they've done for me, the love for my family. If I score, I'll celebrate, " declared Andreas Pereira. He added: "It's part of football; I'm defending Palmeiras. It's my club. If I score, there will be a celebration."

MIDFIELDER HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE CONFRONTATION

The duel between Palmeiras and Flamengo is considered crucial in the fight for the Brasileirão Série A title . Andreas Pereira emphasized the relevance of the match for the competition and for the green and white team itself.

"A special game, of great importance in this title race. It's going to be a very important game, my first for Palmeiras there," the midfielder predicted. He added: " I'll definitely want to win to distance ourselves and make it a little easier for us ."

The statement shows that, despite the memories of his time at Rubro-Negro, Andreas is focused on helping Palmeiras gain important points in the table , reinforcing the competitiveness of the classic in the Brazilian Championship.

SCENARIO FOR THE 2025 BRAZILIAN CHAMPIONSHIP

Flamengo and Palmeiras remain the main contenders for the Brasileirão title, and Andreas Pereira's reunion adds tension to the clash. Expectations are for an intense match, decisive both for the lead and for determining the balance between the teams in the final stretch of the competition.

Flamengo could receive an unexpected boost to its coffers in 2026 with the potential transfer of Corinthians right-back Matheuzinho to clubs in England . The deal, if successful, would yield 30% of the sale price to Flamengo , a percentage that has remained unchanged since the transfer in 2024.

At the time, the São Paulo club acquired 60% of the player's economic rights for around €4 million , approximately R$21 million, while 10% remained with Londrina, the club where he trained. Flamengo made an immediate profit of R$12.8 million between the purchase and sale, but the real financial potential lies in future negotiations, should European interest materialize.

MATHEUZINHO IS HAVING A GOOD TIME

At Corinthians , the 23-year-old full-back excelled under Dorival Júnior and became a key player in the team's defense. Initially surrounded by suspicion, Matheuzinho demonstrated consistency and consistency, racking up standout performances throughout the season.

His performance has caught the attention of the international market. English clubs are already monitoring the player and preparing inquiries for the next transfer window. Although the names of the interested teams have not been disclosed, the player's value is evident , increasing the chances of future profits for Mengão.

POSITIVE FINANCIAL SCENARIO

Behind the scenes, the outlook is considered positive. The player's increased value and European interest could generate significant gains for Flamengo , in addition to keeping the club alert to the market and potential investment opportunities for future signings.