Flamengo star swaps hero status for Russian riches | OneFootball

Is Gerson a Flamengo idol after moving to Zenit, Russia?

The biggest club in Brazil, Flamengo boasts an enviable gallery not only of titles but also of idols and remarkable players who have worn the Sacred Mantle. Names like Zico, Leandro, and Adílio stand at an impeccable level in the club's history. However, some athletes have decided to trade part of this prestige for other benefits. This is the case of Gerson Santos da Silva, who was once the ‘Joker’ of Flamengo.

When did Gerson join Flamengo?

Gerson's first stint at Flamengo happened in 2019, after the player left Roma (ITA). Announced on July 12 of that year, the midfielder began his journey under the command of Jorge Jesus. From the start, Gerson won over the rubro-negra fans with his dedication and versatility. Hence the nickname “Joker”, for playing in various positions.

In his first season, Gerson helped Flamengo win the Copa Libertadores da América and the Brasileirão, participating in 36 matches, scoring two goals, and providing four assists.

Photo: Alexandre Vidal/Flamengo

The following year, already wearing the number 8 jersey, Gerson became one of the leaders of Flamengo. With an active voice in the locker room and taking responsibility on the field, Gerson was a major reference during a crisis. Facing the pandemic in 2020, Fla had to rely on many inexperienced players. In this scenario, the Joker emerged as a ‘mentor’ to several teammates. Thus, Gerson was once again crucial for another Brasileirão victory.

In 2021, Gerson started another season showcasing his quality. However, the French came to take the player from his ‘honeymoon’ with the rubro-negra fans. Paying around R$ 160 million, Olympique de Marseille (FRA) bought Gerson from Flamengo in June 2021.

In total, during his first stint, Gerson played 109 matches for Flamengo, scoring seven goals and providing 11 assists.

When did Gerson return to Flamengo?

After a year and a half playing for Olympique, the midfielder decided it was time to return to Fla. Declaring his love for the Rubro-Negro, Gerson signed again with Flamengo in January 2023. At that time, he was considered a major reinforcement for the Club World Cup.

Just like in his first stint at Flamengo, Gerson quickly took on responsibility both on and off the field. Not surprisingly, the number 8 became captain of the Rubro-Negro. Despite Flamengo's difficult year in 2023, Gerson stood out individually and was recalled to the Brazilian National Team.

In 2024, the Joker reached the peak of his career. A starter in the National Team and captain of Flamengo, Gerson enjoyed a new honeymoon with the Rubro-Negra Nation, winning the Copa do Brasil and being one of the main references of Filipe Luís's brilliant team.

Photo: Rafael Ribeiro / CBF

After another successful season, everything seemed set for a brilliant 2025 with the Sacred Mantle. In fact, after winning the Carioca and the Supercopa do Brasil early in the year, Gerson signed a contract renewal with Flamengo, which was to last until the end of 2030. However, this was just the beginning of what many rubro-negros saw as a great example of ingratitude.

Controversial renewal and move to Russia

Initially, everything was a celebration. The announcement that “the Joker is with Flamengo until 2030” caused great excitement and celebration among fans. However, a detail in the contract raised eyebrows: previously, Gerson had a release clause of 200 million euros. After signing, the amount dropped to 25 million euros.

The fans' concerns were confirmed: shortly after the 2025 Club World Cup, Zenit, from Russia, paid Gerson's release clause, and the player bid farewell to Flamengo once again.

In his second stint, Gerson played 144 matches for Flamengo, scoring 12 goals and providing 24 assists. However, the good numbers on the field and the trophies won were overshadowed by the controversial transfer to Zenit.

Among the main criticisms of the player is not only his stance regarding the reduction of the release clause but also the ‘accusation’ that Gerson left Flamengo solely for financial gain. This is because, unlike in 2021 when he left to play in France, the player ended up going to a less competitive league. Additionally, the fact that Russian clubs are banned from participating in European competitions further supports the theory that Gerson traded Flamengo's idol status for Russian money.

Did you like this story? CLICK HERE and check out the journey narrated by Rafa Penido, on Coluna do Fla

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.