The history of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo is full of glory, titles and unforgettable players. Among these, left-backs have always played a key role, contributing both defensively and offensively. In this article, we list the 10 best left-backs in Flamengo’s history, highlighting their titles for the club, most memorable moments, life stories and greatest records.
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TOP 10 best left-backs in Flamengo’s history
1. Junior
Born in 1954 in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Júnior, also known as “Maestro”, is a living Flamengo legend. He began his career at the club in 1974 and went on to become one of the greatest players in the history of Brazilian soccer.
Titles with Flamengo:
- Carioca Championship: 1974, 1978, 1979, 1979 (Special), 1981
- Guanabara Cup: 1974, 1978, 1979, 1981
- Brazilian Championship: 1980, 1982, 1983, 1992
- Copa Libertadores: 1981
- Interclub World Cup: 1981
Júnior was one of the team’s leaders in winning the Copa Libertadores and the Interclub World Cup in 1981. His performances were marked by refined technique, vision and precision in passing and crossing.
He is also the player with the most games played for Flamengo, with a total of 865 games.
2. Athirson
Born in 1977 in Rio de Janeiro, Athirson Mazzoli e Castro began his career at Flamengo and quickly became one of the best left-backs in Brazil.
Titles with Flamengo:
- Carioca Championship: 1996, 1999, 2000, 2001
- Guanabara Cup: 1996, 1999, 2001
- Rio Cup: 2000
- Mercosur Cup: 1999
Athirson stood out for his attacking ability, speed and ability to dribble past opponents. He was crucial in winning the Carioca Championship in several editions and the Mercosur Cup in 1999.
He is one of the best left-backs in Flamengo’s history and is remembered for his decisive role in Flamengo’s victorious campaigns in the 1990s.
3. Filipe Luís
In a poll of sports journalists, the recently retired Filipe Luís came third among Flamengo’s three best full-backs, right and left, behind only Júnior and Leandro.
With 10 titles won at the club, he is currently the coach of Flamengo’s under-20s.
Titles for Flamengo:
- Copa Libertadores: 2019 and 2022
- South American Cup: 2020
- Brazilian Championship: 2019 and 2020
- Brazilian Cup: 2022
- Brazilian Super Cup: 2020 and 2021
- Carioca Championship: 2020 and 2021
4. Leonardo
Born in 1969 in Rio de Janeiro, Leonardo Nascimento de Araújo began his career at Flamengo and stood out as one of the greatest talents of his generation.
Titles with Flamengo:
- Carioca Championship: 1991
- Guanabara Cup: 1991
- Brazilian Cup: 1990
Leonardo was one of the key players in winning the Carioca Championship in 1991. His technical ability and tactical intelligence made him one of the most respected left-backs in the club’s history.
After his time at Flamengo, Leonardo enjoyed a successful international career, particularly with PSG, and also excelled with the Brazilian national team.
5. Juan
Born in 1982 in São Paulo, Juan Maldonado Jaimez Júnior, known as Juan, began his career at Flamengo and quickly gained prominence for his consistency and defensive ability.
Titles with Flamengo:
- Carioca Championship: 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
- Guanabara Cup: 2007, 2008, 2011
- Rio Cup: 2009, 2011
- Brazil Cup: 2006
Juan was a key player in winning the Carioca title four times between 2007 and 2011 and the 2006 Copa do Brasil. His defensive solidity and leadership on the pitch were crucial to these successes.
Juan is remembered for his longevity and regularity at Flamengo, being one of the most consistent players in the club’s recent history.
6. Paulo Henrique
One of the best left-backs in Flamengo’s history, he held the position for twelve years, from 1960 to 1972, captaining the club during the 60s.
He played in 436 games, winning 211, drawing 119 and losing 106, scoring 13 goals and winning 19 titles.
Main titles with Flamengo:
- Rio-São Paulo Tournament: 1961
- Carioca Championship: 1963, 1965, 1972
- Guanabara Cup: 1970
7. Adalberto
Born in 1957 in Brasilia, Adalberto was a left-back known for his defensive solidity and tackling skills.
Titles with Flamengo:
- Carioca Championship: 1986
- Guanabara Cup: 1986
Adalberto was a key player in winning the 1986 Carioca Championship, standing out for his consistency and security in defense.
8. Éverton Ribeiro
Yes, Éverton Ribeiro is known as one of the best midfielders of all time, but the star also plays as a left-back in different situations, with excellent results for Flamengo.
Titles with Flamengo:
- Campeonato Carioca: 2017, 2019, 2020
- Guanabara Cup: 2018, 2020
- Rio Cup: 2019
- Brazilian Championship: 2019, 2020
- Copa Libertadores: 2019 and 2022
- Brazilian Super Cup: 2020
- South American Cup: 2020
Éverton Ribeiro was crucial in winning the 2019 Copa Libertadores and the 2019 and 2020 Brazilian Championships, standing out for his vision and precise passing.
His versatility and technical ability make him one of Flamengo’s most complete players in recent years.
9. Jordan
Jordan played for Flamengo until 1963, when he ended his career. He was part of one of the greatest teams in Flamengo’s history, winning the championship and completing Flamengo’s second treble.
Titles with Flamengo:
- Carioca Championship: 1953, 1954 and 1955
- Rio São-Paulo Tournament: 1961
10. Renê
Born in 1992 in Picos, Piauí, Renê Rodrigues Martins began his career at Sport Recife before moving to Flamengo, where he quickly became one of the best left-backs in the country.
Titles with Flamengo:
- Campeonato Carioca: 2017, 2019, 2020
- Guanabara Cup: 2018, 2020
- Rio Cup: 2019
- Brazilian Championship: 2019, 2020
- Copa Libertadores: 2019
- Brazilian Super Cup: 2020
- South American Cup: 2020
With so many titles under his belt, Renê has made a name for himself among the best left-backs in Flamengo’s history.
The player was very important in the 2019 Copa Libertadores and the 2019 and 2020 Brazilian Championships, standing out for his defensive solidity and ability to support the attack.
Renê is remembered for his regularity and consistency, being a key player in Flamengo’s recent achievements.
10 Best Left-Backs in Flamengo’s History
Completing the list of the best left-backs in Flamengo’s history are:
- Júnior
- Athirson
- Filipe Luís
- Leonardo
- Juan
- Paulo Henrique
- Adalberto
- Éverton Ribeiro
- Jordan
- Renê
The left-backs mentioned in this article are true legends who have left an indelible legacy in Flamengo’s history.
With their exceptional skills, dedication and passion for the club, they helped build one of the most glorious chapters in Brazilian soccer.
To celebrate these players is to recognize the greatness and tradition of Flamengo, a club that continues to inspire generations of fans and players around the world.
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