Rio de Janeiro – Lucas Paquetá has once again tasted Carioca Championship glory with Flamengo, securing his second state title with the club in a final victory over Fluminense on Sunday. The win marks a significant moment in Paquetá’s career, coming eight years after his first triumph with the *Rubro-Negro* in 2017, too against their rivals. However, despite this latest success, the midfielder is still pursuing a major, continental title with Flamengo, having come close in recent competitions.
The 26-year-old’s return to Flamengo in 2026, after a successful spell in Europe, represented a significant investment for the Brazilian club, reportedly costing €42 million (approximately $45.3 million USD as of March 9, 2026). As reported by OneFootball, Paquetá started in the final, demonstrating his importance to the team’s strategy.
A Return to Rio and a Quest for Continental Success
Paquetá’s journey back to Flamengo followed a period of growth and experience in European football. After being sold to AC Milan in 2018, he subsequently played for Lyon in France and West Ham United in England before returning to his boyhood club. His time abroad honed his skills and brought a new dimension to his game, making him a key figure in Flamengo’s ambitions.
While the Carioca Championship represents a significant achievement, Paquetá and Flamengo have their sights set on more prestigious trophies. The club has been consistently competitive in both domestic and international competitions and the arrival of Paquetá was seen as a crucial step towards achieving those goals. However, recent attempts have fallen short. Before securing the Carioca title, Flamengo were runners-up in both the Supercopa Rei, losing to Corinthians, and the Recopa Sudamericana, defeated by Lanús of Argentina. OneFootball detailed Flamengo’s squad for the final, highlighting the team’s determination to overcome these setbacks.
Paquetá’s Role and Flamengo’s Ambitions
Paquetá’s versatility and technical ability make him a valuable asset to Flamengo’s squad. Capable of playing in multiple positions in midfield, he brings creativity, dynamism, and a goal-scoring threat to the team. His understanding of the game and his ability to dictate play are crucial components of Flamengo’s attacking approach. His presence is expected to elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming Campeonato Brasileiro, Copa do Brasil, and Copa Libertadores tournaments.
The Campeonato Brasileiro, Brazil’s top-flight league, is a fiercely competitive competition featuring some of the country’s biggest clubs. The Copa do Brasil is a national cup competition that offers another pathway to continental qualification. However, It’s the Copa Libertadores, South America’s premier club competition, that represents the ultimate prize for Flamengo and its passionate fanbase. Winning the Libertadores would not only cement Flamengo’s status as one of the continent’s leading clubs but also secure a place in the FIFA Club World Cup.
A High-Profile Return and Expectations
Paquetá’s transfer back to Flamengo generated significant excitement among supporters, who see him as a key player in the club’s pursuit of glory. His return was widely celebrated, and he has quickly established himself as a fan favorite. The pressure to deliver results is immense, but Paquetá appears to thrive under pressure, demonstrating a maturity and determination that belies his age.
The financial aspect of Paquetá’s transfer also underscores Flamengo’s ambition. The €42 million fee made him the most expensive signing in Brazilian football history, demonstrating the club’s willingness to invest in top talent. This investment reflects the club’s commitment to competing at the highest level and achieving success both domestically and internationally. The expectation is that Paquetá will justify his price tag by leading Flamengo to a period of sustained success.
Beyond the on-field expectations, Paquetá’s return has also been marked by personal connections. Recent reports have highlighted his supportive messages to former teammates, such as Filipe Luís, following the veteran’s departure from the club. OneFootball reported on Paquetá’s tribute to Luís, showcasing his respect for those who have shaped his career.
Looking ahead, Flamengo’s schedule is packed with challenging fixtures. The club will need to navigate a demanding league campaign, compete in the Copa do Brasil, and strive for success in the Copa Libertadores. Paquetá’s form and fitness will be crucial to Flamengo’s chances in all three competitions. The team’s ability to maintain consistency and overcome adversity will be key to achieving their goals.
The next major test for Flamengo will be their upcoming matches in the Campeonato Brasileiro. The league is known for its intensity and competitiveness, and Flamengo will face tough opposition from rivals such as Palmeiras, Corinthians, and São Paulo. Successfully navigating this challenging period will be vital for building momentum and confidence ahead of the Copa Libertadores knockout stages.
As Flamengo continues its pursuit of glory, Lucas Paquetá will undoubtedly play a central role. His talent, experience, and determination will be essential to the club’s success. While the Carioca Championship provides a welcome boost, the ultimate goal remains a continental title – a prize that has eluded Flamengo for too long. The journey will be challenging, but with Paquetá leading the charge, the *Rubro-Negro* faithful have reason to believe that this could be their year.
Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued coverage of Flamengo’s season and Lucas Paquetá’s progress. We will provide updates on their performances in the Campeonato Brasileiro, Copa do Brasil, and Copa Libertadores, as well as any other significant developments. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!