Saúl declares himself to Flamengo and provokes Real Madrid: red and black fans are the biggest in the world By Maria
3 min read
 |
The Spanish midfielder The player, who arrived at Rubro-Negro in July 2025, emphasized the difference in the atmosphere of the stadiums and the mobilization of fans in games inside and outside of Rio and Janeiro.
Saúl detailed that the Maracanã is always packed and the massive presence of Flamengo fans in matches away from home create a unique atmosphere. Ele contrasted this with the experience in European stadiums, where support does not always convey the same intensity.
Flamengo ends the season this Wednesday, December 17th, against Paris Saint-Germain, in the final of Copa Intercontinental, at Doha, at Catar, at 2pm (Brasília time). The team is looking for the world title after recent achievements at Libertadores and Brasileirão.
Statements about the fans
Saúl explained his vision by directly comparing the clubs. Ele recognized the global fame of Real Madrid, built by titles and history, but stated that this generates more distant followers than a present and vibrant fan base.
The player cited concrete examples of red-black mobilization. In a match against Sport, in Recife, the stadium changed to accommodate more Flamengo fans, despite the flight distance of around three and a half hours from Rio.
- Maracanã is always full for games at Rio.
- Dominant presence in away matches, such as in the final of Libertadores in Lima.
- Comparison with rivals, where the opposing fans do not always fill the sectors.
Saúl highlighted that this immediate connection surprised him from his first day at the club. Ele expressed a desire to give back with more achievements in 2026.
Adaptation and achievements in Flamengo
The Spaniard arrived at Flamengo from Atlético from Madrid and quickly integrated into the squad. In six months, he participated in 23 games, with two assists, and contributed to the Libertadores and Brasileirão titles.
The club’s infrastructure also impressed the player, who described Rubro-Negro as an organized and professional entity. However, the difference remains in the fans, estimated at more than 42 million people.
Saúl regained the pleasure of playing football at Brasil. Ele mentioned the fans’ demands as a motivating factor for the team’s high performance.
Physical problem and future planning
Saúl has been dealing with pain in his left Aquiles tendon throughout the season. The player plays at sacrifice, with load management and procedures to control the nuisance.
The Flamengo medical department discusses treatment options for 2026. Surgery is being considered to resolve the problem definitively, allowing full recovery before the start of competitions.
- Insertional tendinopathy without rupture.
- Conservative treatment to date.
- Final decision after consultation with experts.
- Objective of returning without physical limitations.
The midfielder remains available for the final against PSG. Ele reinforced his commitment to the group in the search for the intercontinental title.
Context of the intercontinental final
Flamengo qualified for the decision after victories in the challenger phase of the tournament. The team overcame opponents from other continents and arrives motivated by national and South American achievements.
The clash against Paris Saint-Germain represents an opportunity to close the year with a triple crown. The game takes place on Estádio Ahmad bin Ali, broadcast to several countries.
Red and black fans are present at Catar. The mobilization reflects what Saúl described in his interview about unconditional support.
The team trained normally in Doha. The focus remains on the strategy to neutralize the French attack and explore counterattacks.
Saúl’s trajectory in football
Formed in Atlético from Madrid, Saúl faced Real Madrid several times in Spanish classics. Essa rivalry makes their comparison even more meaningful to European fans.
The player won titles at Europa, including Liga Europa and Campeonato Espanhol. No Flamengo, became the second Spaniard to beat Libertadores and Brasileirão, after Pablo Marí.
Adapting to Brazilian football occurred quickly. Saúl highlighted differences in the pitches and pace of play as initial challenges overcome.
He praised the technical committee led by Filipe Luís. The coach, also a former Atlético de Madrid, facilitates the integration of European players.
