Why Emerson Royal snubbed Europe for Flamengo | OneFootball

Emerson Royal stepped into the spotlight at Flamengo’s official presentation this week and immediately captured attention with frank admissions about his adaptation process and the club's ambitions, according to Globo and Lance. The right back, recently signed after spells in Europe, emphasized a need for patience before making his debut, noting his current focus is on achieving top physical condition following his off-season. “I come from preseason, I need some time to adapt,” he explained. “I don’t want to rush it and go in straight away. My anxiety is high, but it’s a short period I’ll need to get ready.”

The move to Flamengo wasn’t always guaranteed. Emerson revealed he had been deep in talks with Turkish side Besiktas, with flights already arranged, when Flamengo’s offer—boosted by a personal project and the club’s global stature—persuaded him to abruptly switch his plans. He made clear the decision was motivated by the opportunity and vision presented by the Brazilian club rather than financial considerations: “The project here is very big, wanting to win everything. I left Brazil very early and never really played in my own country. Coming to Flamengo is not a step back—this is one of the biggest clubs in the world.”

Emerson also addressed the narrative that returning to Brazil can be perceived as a regression for players based in Europe. “A lot of people said I was taking a step back, but that’s not the case at all. Wherever I went in Europe, everyone knew Flamengo,” he said.

Reflecting on previous injury struggles, Emerson said he is fully recovered and ready to work hard toward his Flamengo debut. He credited his physical strength and intensity as key qualities and promised supporters “grit, desire, and attacking intent” once he is up to speed.

Intertwined with his club ambitions is an eye on the Brazilian national team. Emerson conceded that a costly error in 2022 may have closed the door on a call-up at the time, but he is focused on earning another opportunity. He cited the successful returns of players like Alex Sandro and Danilo to the Seleção after playing domestically as an inspiration: “I know my potential and I’ll keep working to get another chance.”

His introduction also brought praise for new Flamengo coach Filipe Luís, himself a former international full back. “Filipe was a left back, too—he can help me a lot,” Emerson noted, revealing that Filipe has already urged him to express himself in attack. “He’s explained a lot already, telling me to drive forward and take risks. I told my agent that soon, Flamengo will have to deal with clubs wanting Filipe as a coach abroad.”

Finally, Emerson reflected on his rise from the outskirts of São Paulo and credited key mentors like coaches Elio Sizenando and Eduardo Baptista for shaping his journey. The right back acknowledged the weight of responsibility he feels as a role model for children growing up in challenging circumstances, saying, “I represent my nation, and especially where I came from. I want to do my best for all of them.”

(Sources: Globo, Lance)

Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images