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Brazilian defender Danilo, 33, is reportedly set to return to Brazilian football with C.R. Flamengo as his likely destination, according to Raisa Simplicio from Goal.com. Currently at Juventus, Danilo has been with the Italian club since 2019, but his departure is being facilitated after coach Thiago Motta informed him he was not part of future plans.
Career Overview and European Success
Danilo has had an illustrious career spanning over a decade in Europe, where he played for Porto, Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Juventus. While at Juventus, he made 214 appearances, scored 9 goals, and provided 14 assists, often serving as team captain. Though primarily a right-back for the Brazilian national team, he transitioned to a central defensive role at Juventus, a position he plans to maintain at Flamengo.
Flamengo's Defensive Reinforcement
The Rio de Janeiro club has prioritized strengthening its defense after the departures of Fabrício Bruno (Cruzeiro) and David Luiz (Fortaleza). Sporting director José Boto has been actively pursuing reinforcements, and Danilo's experience and leadership align perfectly with Flamengo's needs.
Connection to Flamengo
Danilo's decision to choose Flamengo was influenced by his friendship with left-back Alex Sandro, his former teammate at Porto and Juventus, and the relationship he shares with Flamengo coach Filipe Luís. This personal connection, coupled with Flamengo's competitive ambitions, tipped the scales in favor of the Rio club over offers from Napoli and Santos.
Aiming for Titles at Flamengo
If the deal is finalized, Danilo will join a Flamengo squad competing in seven tournaments this year, including the FIFA Club World Cup, Copa Libertadores, and Brazilian Série A Championship. The club has already signed forward Juninho from Qarabag and is reportedly in negotiations with Brazilian-Italian midfielder Jorginho, who currently plays for Arsenal.
Danilo's move to Flamengo brings a seasoned leader to a squad aiming for success on multiple fronts in 2025.
