David Luiz has given his first interview as a new Flamengo player, saying he will have no trouble adapting due to the positive atmosphere in the dressing room.
Image: Marcelo Cortes / Flamengo
Was it a dig at Arsenal? Maybe, maybe not, but the sad thing is we can’t dismiss the idea that David Luiz was referencing a negative atmosphere at Arsenal at his Flamengo unveiling.
Luiz signed a 16-month deal until the end of 2022 with Flamengo
“[It is] Another big challenge in my life,” Luiz said.
“I understand that it’s what I’ve always liked, it’s what gives me oxygen.
“It made me make this decision. I had a few different scenarios. I could have chosen a quieter life, but I like to do what’s in my heart.
“That’s what makes me keep playing football, makes me have the same energy and passion.
“It was crazy to feel this love from the fans, even though I’m not a Flamengo player. It made me think and imagine a lot.
“My adaptation will be easy, I know countless players in the team. You can see they exude joy, compassion and harmony in the squad.
“It’s very easy to adapt in an atmosphere carried out in a positive context.
“I have the ambition to do my best for Flamengo, of the best pages I’ll live in my career.
“Flamengo is great and manages to give great things.”
For the 34-year-old Luiz, Flamengo is his sixth club having also played for EC Vitoria (Brazil), Benfica, Chelsea, PSG and, of course, Arsenal.
He’s hoping that playing for Flamengo will help him get back into the Brazil national side ahead of the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Luiz last represented his country in June, 2017, when he played 73 minutes as a DM in a 4-0 win over Australia.
