The walls of Gabriel's room were no longer bare. They gleamed with medals, jerseys, and photographs — each one telling the story of a boy who had turned dreams into history.
In just three seasons with Flamengo, Gabriel Silva had lifted everything possible:
Brasileirão (2x) — top scorer and best player in both campaigns.
Copa do Brasil (1x) — Golden Boot with 7 goals.
Supercopa do Brasil (1x) — named Man of the Match in the final.
Copa Libertadores (1x) — the decisive goal against River Plate.
Recopa Sudamericana (1x) — scoring in both legs of the final.
And his numbers? Unreal.
148 matches
102 goals
54 assists
All before turning 21.
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Europe Watches
The Maracanã had become a stage not only for Brazil but for the world. In every match, European scouts filled the VIP stands. Men in suits with notebooks and sharp eyes studied every movement of Flamengo's number 9.
Real Madrid sent emissaries three times. Barcelona spoke of a long-term project. PSG waved impossible numbers. Even Liverpool and Manchester City showed serious interest.
Brazilian headlines shouted:
"How much longer will Gabriel Silva stay at Flamengo?"
"Is the world's next superstar ready to leave?"
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The Dilemma
After another league victory, Gabriel sat on the empty pitch of the Maracanã, staring at the silent stands.
Mel joined him, resting her head on his shoulder.
"They're going to take you, Biel," she whispered. "It's written. You can't hide from the world."
Gabriel exhaled. "But what about here? Flamengo gave me everything. I don't want to be just another who leaves. I want to be eternal."
She looked at him gently. "You already are eternal. But maybe now it's time to let your flame burn beyond Brazil."
He squeezed her hand. "And would you come with me?"
Her smile was steady. "Where you go, I go."
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A New Horizon
Days later, after a decisive win, a European director entered the Flamengo locker room. He shook the coach's hand, then looked Gabriel straight in the eyes.
"You're ready," he said firmly. "Europe is waiting."
Gabriel didn't answer. His hand clenched tightly, his mind racing with the weight of every trophy, every cheer, every dream carried in red and black.
He knew: soon, he would have to choose.
Stay and write even more pages of history with Flamengo.
Or leave, to conquer the world — taking with him the love of Mel, the faith of the fans, and the eternal flame of the Maracanã.