Fluminense teen midfielder Ruan Sales makes professional debut

Eighteen‑year‑old Ruan Sales, a midfielder from São Luis in Brazil’s Maranhão state, has begun his senior career with Fluminense. A product of the club’s academy since 2018, he signed his first professional contract in 2024 that runs until 2027.

Sales debuted in a friendly against Nova Iguaçu, earning praise from teammates and coach Luis Zubeldía for his technical skill, intensity, maturity and tactical versatility, including the ability to play as a defender. His performances come as Fluminense uses the mid‑season break to test young prospects and integrate new signings ahead of the second half of the campaign.

The club also highlighted contributions from other emerging players and senior stars in the same match, but Sales’ emergence reinforces Maranhão’s reputation for producing football talent for top Brazilian clubs.