Midfielder Lucas Paquetá made his debut for Flamengo in Sunday's Brazilian Super Cup, and Paquetá explained why he did not return to his beloved club earlier.
He said: “Everyone knows what I've been through, and everyone has their own opinions. Throughout the process, I had the chance to come back, but I chose to stay and resolve the issues. I proved my innocence, showed people who I am and how I live my life, and that was enough.”
Recalling his experience of being accused of involvement in a sports manipulation case in England but ultimately being cleared of all charges, he said: “I can put this burden down and start over. I wanted to move forward, but I was facing situations I no longer needed to deal with. I had Flamengo's support, and I no longer cared about financial matters or the UEFA Champions League—I craved love and people who would accept me. This was a joint decision with my wife; it was time to come back, and I'm delighted to be where I want to be.”
Paquetá will wear Flamengo's number 20 shirt. He stated that he had the opportunity to continue playing in Europe, but he reaffirmed that returning to Brazil was his personal wish.
"I can tell everyone that I did everything I could to come back here. None of this would have been possible without Flamengo's support. First and foremost, it was for myself and my family, to make me feel comfortable. Everyone knows I had the chance to stay in Europe, and Chelsea also offered me a contract—playing in the Champions League was once my dream. I spent seven years in Europe without getting that opportunity. But I also dream of winning trophies, and I believe this experience will have a happy ending."
