Flamengo has officially confirmed the arrival of Ecuadorian forward Anthony Valencia. The reinforcement, coming from Belgian football, will wear the number 14 jersey and is the new bet for the red-and-black offensive sector.
Clube de Regatas do Flamengo stirred up the transfer market by making the signing of forward Anthony Valencia official this Tuesday (1st). The player, who was previously with Royal Antwerp in Belgium, arrives in Rio de Janeiro with the mission of strengthening the squad managed by the red-and-black coaching staff for the remainder of the season.
The 23-year-old Ecuadorian athlete has already been presented and will carry significant symbolic responsibility within the squad: he will wear the iconic number 14 jersey. The club’s board views the transaction as a strategic move to add more depth to their attack.
Trajectory of the New Reinforcement
Hailing from Independiente del Valle, a renowned talent factory in South America, Anthony Valencia began his professional career in 2020. His strong performances in his home country attracted interest from the European market, leading him to Royal Antwerp in 2022. During his time in Belgium, the left-footed player scored 13 goals and provided four assists.
In addition to his international experience, the forward brings to the table his participation in the 2026 World Cup, where he represented the Ecuador national team. The maturity gained in European football and in elite international tournaments raises the fans’ expectations for his performance while wearing the Sacred Mantle.
Debut Expectations
In his first words as a Flamengo player, the forward expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to play for one of the biggest clubs on the continent.
“I hope to be on the field soon and count on the fans’ support. I will give my best to bring many joys to the club. You can count on me.”
Valencia’s arrival comes at a crucial moment in the season, as the team seeks to maintain competitiveness on all fronts. The expectation now rests on the athlete’s regularization in the BID (Registry of Sports Professionals) so that he can be available to the coaching staff for upcoming matches on the national calendar.
Player Profile
- Full name: Anthony Lenín Valencia Bajaña
- Date of birth: 07/21/2003
- Hometown: Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Position: Forward
- Previous clubs: Independiente del Valle (2020-22) and Royal Antwerp (2022-26)
