Former defensive midfielder Djair causes a stir by preferring Gabriel Gubela to Leandro, a Flamengo icon, in his ideal classic Fla-Flu lineup, igniting fan debate.
The passion for football and the fervor of debates over who the best players are have gained a new chapter with the recent choice made by former defensive midfielder Djair. Known for his, albeit brief, stint at Flamengo, the ex-player has sparked controversy by assembling an ideal lineup between Flamengo and Fluminense. His decision for the right-back position, in particular, has provoked a wave of discussions and surprise among fans.
The setting was a popular online game that proposes a choice between legends and current talents, organized by the page ‘Henrique Salina‘. Expectations were high, but Djair‘s choice for right-back ended up overshadowing the other selections, putting the memory and passion of the red-and-black supporters to the test.
Djair’s Unusual Lineup
The list released by Djair featured prominent names for both sides of the Rio classic, but one in particular caught the eye. At right-back, instead of opting for the legendary Leandro, a multiple champion and undisputed idol of Flamengo, the former midfielder chose Gabriel Gubela. The other selections included: JULIO CESAR (goalkeeper), ALDAIR and JUAN (center-backs), JUNIOR (left-back), ANDRADE and ZICO (midfield), DECO, THIAGO NEVES, and RENATO GAÚCHO (attacking midfield), and FRED (striker). The simulated final score of the match was Flamengo 6-5 Fluminense.
The Fullbacks’ Showdown: Gabriel Gubela vs. Leandro
Djair‘s choice of Gabriel Gubela brought the former fullback’s resume to the forefront. Gabriel‘s career includes titles such as a Copa do Brasil and a Greek Championship. His career path included clubs like São Paulo, Fluminense, Cruzeiro, Grêmio, and Internacional in Brazil, as well as international stints with Málaga (Spain) and Panathinaikos (Greece). He also recorded one appearance for the Brazilian National Team.
In contrast, Leandro, affectionately known as ‘Peixe-Frito‘ (Fried Fish), is a true legend. He was a starter in the World Cup, scored two goals for the Brazilian National Team in 27 appearances, and is recognized for his devotion to Flamengo, a club he never left to wear another jersey. His trophy cabinet is impressive: World champion, Copa Libertadores winner, four-time Brazilian champion, Copa do Brasil winner, five Rio state championships, and several international titles. For the majority of the red-and-black fanbase, Leandro ranks among the greatest idols in Mengão‘s history.
Djair’s Flamengo Career
Djair‘s time at Flamengo took place between 1995 and 1996. According to data from the platform ‘o Gol’, the former defensive midfielder played 46 matches in the Sacred Robe and scored one goal. He was part of the squad that won the 1996 Carioca Championship. Interestingly, one year prior, in 1995, Djair had won the Carioca Championship with Fluminense, in the famous match where Renato Gaúcho scored with his belly.
The Repercussion of the Choice
Djair‘s decision to overlook Leandro in favor of Gabriel Gubela did not go unnoticed. The M360 team observed the public’s reaction. As noted by the M360 Team, the surprise was widespread:
“I want to believe that Djair confused the fullbacks; he must have been thinking of another Leandro. That’s the only explanation for this vote. What’s worse is that he spoke seriously, he didn’t seem to be joking. And, on the other names, he maintained significant consistency. In the comments of the post, of course, fans were shocked by the vote for Gabriel Gubela.”
The opinion reverberated on social media, with many fans expressing disbelief at the former midfielder’s choice, reaffirming the legacy and importance of Leandro in Flamengo‘s history.
The controversy generated by Djair‘s choice reinforces the intensity of football discussions and fans’ passion for their idols. While some opinions may be surprising, the impact of players like Leandro in the red-and-black collective imagination remains unshakable, serving as a constant reminder of Flamengo‘s rich history. The M360 Team continues to follow the developments and repercussions of these heated debates among sports lovers.
