Why Samuel Lino chose Flamengo over Europe and millions | OneFootball

Samuel Lino’s return to Flamengo was shaped by more than financial offers from abroad—it was a decision rooted in career ambition and a desire for visibility, according to Lance. The 25-year-old winger, having drawn interest from European and Middle Eastern clubs, cited the prospect of fighting for titles at one of Brazil’s biggest teams and the dream of reaching the national team as key reasons for his choice.

“It’s Samuel Lino—not Samuel Liso,” Lino clarified, addressing a nickname from fans while discussing his evolution since his earlier days in Flamengo’s academy. He described that period as formative but limiting, as he often played out of position as a central striker. Those experiences, he said, strengthened his mentality, setting the foundation for future growth.

Lino pointed directly to Flamengo’s status as a launchpad for international recognition: “I had interesting offers from Europe and good financial proposals from Arabia, but when Flamengo’s proposal came in, I saw it was a huge club, always competing for titles, and a place where many players get called up to the national team. That attracted me way more than projects abroad.” With the 2026 World Cup qualifying cycle already underway, he sees Flamengo's high profile—evidenced by the club’s frequent representation in Brazil’s recent national team call-ups—as a pathway to his longstanding goal of wearing the Seleção shirt.

Despite his age, Lino felt the timing was right to return to Brazil. “A month ago I was telling my mother about coming back. The Brazilian league is getting stronger, and when Flamengo showed interest, I didn’t worry about staying in Europe just because I’m young,” he explained. The calendar’s heavy match load is something he embraced, noting that every squad member would need to be prepared amidst the frequency of matches and long travel distances.

Lino also acknowledged that being Flamengo’s most expensive signing is a responsibility but isn’t letting it add pressure. “It’s about giving my all—names and numbers don’t play, you have to earn it on the pitch,” he said, reflecting on a recent tough match against Atlético MG.

Reflecting on his European stint, which included formative seasons in Portugal and at Atlético de Madrid under Diego Simeone, Lino credits those experiences with improving his tactical understanding and maturity. “Simeone helped me defensively, playing as a wing-back. Working alongside top players, I learned about their habits and professionalism,” he observed.

As he reconnects with Flamengo, Lino is hopeful and focused. The dream of the Seleção remains strong, and the winger is eager to convert his ambition into decisive moments—both for the club and, potentially, for Brazil on the world stage.

(Sources: Lance)