Danilo Returns to Minas Gerais as Flamengo Faces Portuguesa in Carioca Clash

UBERLÂNDIA, Brazil — Flamengo‘s new signing Danilo is set to make his first start for the club in a highly anticipated return to his home state of Minas Gerais. The Brazilian defender, who recently joined Flamengo after a successful career in Europe, could feature in Wednesday’s Campeonato Carioca match against Portuguesa-RJ at Parque do Sabiá.

Danilo, a native of Bicas, Minas Gerais, last played in his home state 13 years ago while representing Santos. His return marks a significant moment for the 33-year-old, who has spent over a decade competing for top European clubs, including Porto, Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Juventus. His last match in Minas Gerais was on October 13, 2011, when Santos lost 2-1 to Atlético-MG in Sete Lagoas.

Revealed by América-MG, Danilo has a strong record in Minas Gerais, with 13 wins, seven draws, and five losses in 25 matches, according to data from the website ‘ogol.’ He has played in seven cities across the state, including Belo Horizonte, Ipatinga, and Uberlândia, where he boasts a 100% win rate at Parque do Sabiá.

Flamengo’s head coach, Filipe Luís, is expected to rotate the squad following their 3-1 victory over Botafogo in the Supercopa do Brasil on Sunday. Danilo could start either as a right-back or center-back, partnering with Cleiton in defense. The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Brasília time.

Danilo, who has already made an impact off the pitch, delivered a motivational speech in the locker room after his debut. Sources revealed that he praised the team’s quality and acknowledged the challenge of earning a starting spot in Flamengo’s star-studded lineup. His humility and leadership have been well-received by teammates and staff.

The defender has also embraced the passionate Flamengo fanbase, expressing his joy at reconnecting with Brazilian supporters. During the team’s arrival in Uberlândia, Danilo took time to interact with fans, signing autographs and posing for photos. ‘Living a dream!’ he wrote on social media after winning the Supercopa, his 26th career title and first with Flamengo.

Danilo’s addition bolsters Flamengo’s ambitions for 2025, as the club competes for multiple titles, including the Campeonato Carioca, Copa do Brasil, Brasileirão, Libertadores, and FIFA Club World Cup. His experience and versatility make him a valuable asset as Flamengo aims to build on its recent successes.