Champion Chat: Paquetá Shares Career Wisdom With Flamengo Academy Stars

Flamengo held the fourth edition of Champion Chat on Thursday, an initiative designed to connect academy players with influential figures from the club's storied history. This edition featured Lucas Paquetá, who spent an afternoon with players from the 2013 and 2015 generations, currently in the U-13 and U-11 squads.

In a candid and emotionally charged conversation, the midfielder opened up about pivotal moments in his journey—from his academy days through to his rise in professional football. Paquetá reflected on his youth development at Flamengo, physical conditioning from his earliest years, his move abroad, major victories, the role of education, faith, and the mentors who shaped him both on and off the pitch.

Among his academy memories, Paquetá singled out winning the 2016 Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior—when he also wore the number 11—as one of the defining moments of his early career.

Gilvan de Souza / CRF

Crucially, Paquetá emphasized why these encounters matter. "When I was in the academy, we saw the professionals from a distance. We wanted to be close to them, to talk, to shake their hands. That kind of connection wasn't common back then," he explained. "Seeing what Flamengo has become in this sense is very special, because it shows the kids that professional football isn't so far away. It's tangible. I hope they can use this closeness as fuel to chase their own dreams."

One participant was Bernardo Aiex, 13, the current number 10 of the 2013 generation. Having joined Flamengo at age six, Aiex has spent his entire development within the club's academy structure.

Gilvan de Souza / CRF

For the young playmaker, the chance to sit down with Paquetá offered rare insight into the lived experience of a top player. "We all knew Paquetá's story and understood his importance to Flamengo. Being near him and realizing he went through similar moments to what we're experiencing now—that was really special," he said.

Aiex also noted Paquetá's relationship with the club and his own playing style as a source of inspiration. "What strikes me is how connected he feels to Flamengo—it's a second home for him, just as it is for all of us here. Plus, he plays my position. When I watch him play, I see movements and characteristics I can bring into my own game, things my coach works on with me too. He's a huge inspiration."

For Patrícia Negreiros, head of Flamengo's Human Development department, Paquetá's presence served a vital purpose: offering the young players a tangible reference point. "We're talking about a role model," she noted. "Paquetá is a Nest Product—he was here, experienced what these boys are experiencing now. Bringing him in to share, answer questions, and talk about challenges and everything he built here is crucial. The effort he made to reach professional football is a dream reference. He dreamed the same dreams these kids dream today, and it's beautiful to bring two generations together."

Launched in 2025 under the club's new management, Champion Chat has already hosted other guests. Current squad members Danilo and Jorginho have also participated in previous sessions with youth groups.

The program aims to bridge academy players with established professionals who embody the Rubro-Negro DNA and carry stories of dedication, resilience, and footballing success.

Gilvan de Souza / CRF

As the session closed, Paquetá left the young players with a final thought: "The important thing is to keep working, keep dedicating yourself, and have fun on the pitch—but always with a clear goal of earning your place and chasing your dream. Keep going, because when you make it, it's worth every moment."

Gilvan de Souza / CRF

Gilvan de Souza / CRF