Former executive Marcos Braz defends a potential return of Gabigol to Flamengo via loan, drawing parallels with the historic 2019 negotiation that marked the beginning of an era.
The possibility of Gabriel Barbosa returning to Ninho do Urubu has once again become a hot topic behind the scenes at Mais Querido. In recent statements to the Fla Zoeiro channel, Marcos Braz, former vice-president of football and one of the key figures responsible for bringing the striker to Rio de Janeiro five years ago, indicated that the business model used in 2019 could be replicated to make a new stint for the idol at the club viable.
The executive argued that, under specific contractual conditions, having a player of Gabigol‘s caliber available would be a valuable reinforcement for the current squad. The statement comes at a time of high performance for the athlete, who currently plays for Santos and is experiencing a prolific goalscoring phase in the Brazilian Serie A, keeping himself in the spotlight on the national scene.
The 2019-style loan strategy
Analyzing the scenario, Marcos Braz recalled the complexity of Gabi‘s transition from Inter Milan to Flamengo. On that occasion, the Rio de Janeiro club structured a viable loan that allowed the athlete’s arrival.
“If it were under those conditions, a one-year loan, yes. It was the same operation as in 2019. Flamengo made a huge effort and brought Gabigol. Under those terms, it could be considered. Having a Gabigol available to fight for a position, to be part of the squad, I think it’s important.”
Current phase and the idol’s future
Currently tied to Cruzeiro and on loan to Santos, the striker has racked up impressive numbers this season, with 23 goals in 43 matches. With 13 goals scored in the Brazilian Serie A, the player has established himself as one of Peixe’s key players, recently netting twice in a comeback victory over São Paulo. This performance has even reignited the number 10’s dream of earning call-ups to the Brazil national team with an eye on the 2030 World Cup.
Historical impact and next steps
Gabigol‘s relationship with Flamengo is marked by 160 goals and 13 titles won between 2019 and 2024, including two Copa Libertadores trophies and two Brazilian Serie A titles. The Rubro-Negro fanbase, always attentive to market movements, is following the impact of Marcos Braz‘s remarks with curiosity.
While the board evaluates planning for the next season, attention turns to the on-field reunion. This Thursday (08), at 7:30 PM, the clash between Flamengo and Santos promises to be one of the most anticipated moments of the round, with full coverage by Equipe M360. The duel at Vila Belmiro will serve as a litmus test for both teams’ aspirations in the tournament.
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