Flamengo have five academy prospects in Brazil U-17 World Cup preparations

Flamengo have five representatives in the Brazil U-17 squad preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Beyond the three Rubro-Negro players called up for the tournament—goalkeeper Gabriel Werneck, centre-back Daniel Silva (Thuram) and forward João Vitor Couto—defenders Felipe Pina and Rafael Barreto from Flamengo's U-16 side were invited by head coach Carlos Eduardo Patetuci to complete training sessions at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro.

With three players in the squad, Flamengo share the lead among clubs with the most representatives at the World Cup alongside Athletico-PR.

Born in 2010, Pina and Rafinha will have the opportunity to experience World Cup preparation routines alongside older players—an experience that contributes to the development and formation of the club's academy prospects.

"I was very happy to receive the call-up. It's a really important opportunity for my development", said Felipe Pina, who joined Flamengo in 2019 for the U-9 category.

Rafael Barreto also finds himself in a special moment in his career at the club. In September of this year, after a decade wearing the shirt, he signed his first professional contract with Flamengo.

"The experience has been very special, especially as it's my first time at Granja. I hope to have more opportunities to come back here", he added.

The Brazil squad began their World Cup preparations on Tuesday, November 3, at Granja Comary in Teresópolis. After the training period, the delegation will travel to Qatar.