Anthony Valencia is presented and discusses his arrival at Flamengo, competition with Plata, and imminent debut.
The Ninho do Urubu training ground was buzzing with excitement this Friday (04) as Anthony Valencia was officially presented as Flamengo‘s first signing of the current transfer window. During his press conference, the Ecuadorian forward described himself as a “very creative and fast” player and expressed his immense satisfaction and gratitude for the opportunity to play for the Rio de Janeiro club.
Valencia did not hold back when discussing the offer from Flamengo, stating he didn’t think twice before accepting the invitation. He highlighted the magnitude of the club and the responsibility that comes with it. “I know this carries a lot of responsibility. The teammates who have been here longer help me, and I am ready to give my best to win titles with Flamengo,” the player declared, showing that he has already embraced the club’s winning culture.
Battle for a spot with Gonzalo Plata
One of the most discussed topics during the press conference was the competition for a spot in the attack alongside Gonzalo Plata. Plata’s return to Flamengo following the collapse of his transfer to Dynamo Moscow put the two Ecuadorians in direct competition for a starting position. Valencia, however, maintains a spirit of camaraderie and learning.
“Gonzalo and the other teammates have different characteristics. The best part is that you always have things to learn and improve on. Gonzalo always helps me; players with more experience always help. I am here to learn, help my teammates, and give my best,” said the new number 14.
Despite competing for a spot with his fellow countryman, Valencia did not hide the strong relationship between the two, who went through the youth ranks together in Ecuador and at Independiente del Valle.
“We went through the development process together in Ecuador and at Independiente (del Valle). I get along very well with him; it’s always good to have a countryman on the team. For me, Gonzalo has done a lot for this club, and now he is back. I hope to see him ready, winning titles, and doing things the right way.”
Contract and debut expectations
At 23 years old, Anthony Valencia signed a contract with Flamengo through 2031, a long-term deal that highlights the club’s confidence in his potential. The deal involved an investment of 5 million euros (approximately R$ 30.08 million). Royal Antwerp, the Belgian club from which Valencia arrived, retained 15% of the rights for a future transfer.
With his documentation regularized in the CBF’s Daily Newsletter (BID), the forward is already at the manager’s disposal and could make his debut as early as this Sunday (06), against Remo, in a match valid for the 26th round of the Brazilian Serie A, to be held at Mangueirão at 4:00 PM (Brasília time).
Valencia also commented on his physical condition, admitting to having dealt with “some inconsistencies due to injuries,” but assured that he is ready to compete and perform at his best. He also shared his excitement about the Maracanã: “I had never been in a stadium like that. The first time. I felt a very beautiful energy from the fans. I am very eager to play there and feel the love of the supporters.”
The new signing also projected a reunion with Independiente del Valle, his former club, in the quarterfinals of the Copa Libertadores, promising to give everything to secure Flamengo‘s qualification.
