There are some things certain in life; death, taxes and a host of new prodigies emerging in the Brazilian league every year. Despite not having huge financial resources, the South American nation still produces talented wonderkids, many of whom go on to become stars of the future game. The country has recently produced the talented Vinicus Jr, and teenage star Endrick Felipe. Felipe’s teammate Luis Guilherme and Flamengo’s creative genius Matheus Franca are others to come out of the national league set-up.
Franca, who is just 18 years old, is a product of Flamengo’s incredible youth system that has produced defensive midfielder Joao Gomes and striker Gabriel Barbosa. The attacking midfielder is also another player who has been watched by the scouts of Real Madrid, who, in recent years, have identified several gems from Brazil.
Franca has, at 18 years become an integral part of Flamengo’s team and was one of the few positives in an otherwise underwhelming season for the club.
But who is Matheus Franca, and how good is he?
Playing career so far
Matheus Franca de Oliveira was born on April 1, 2004, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and like millions of his countrymen showed an interest in football from a young age. And it was one of the reasons he joined Flamengo, one of the biggest clubs in Rio de Janeiro and Brazil aged 13.
His talent was there for all to see from a young age as he progressed rapidly through various age groups. After Vincius Jr was sold to Real Madrid, he was touted as the next star, and Franca has proven good on his talent.
However, his rise at the club came at a time when the club was hiring, and firing managers left, right and centre. Franca has already played under seven managers since making his debut which came under Jorge Jesus against Santos on July 12, 2021. He would make one more appearance in the league against Atletico Clube Goianiense.
The following season he would play a more critical part in the team, making 17 appearances as the team finished fifth in the league.
Matheus França stats 💎🎯🕵🔥 https://t.co/WPJRLprhUH pic.twitter.com/irEEoLOKYM
— Ibrahim AKTAN (@ibrahimaktan) January 26, 2023
Matheus Franca stats
In his first senior season with the club, Franca played a total of 24 minutes scoring no goals and providing no assists, so we only have the 2022 season to look for stats. However, even in that solitary season, Franca has proven to be a creative genius with a high ceiling.
The teenagers made…
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