Former Flamengo striker Juninho, currently playing for Pumas in Mexico, has reflected on his difficult 2025 season with the Brazilian club. In an interview with 365Scores, the forward stated that the pressure of succeeding club icon Gabigol was a significant obstacle to his success.
Juninho, who joined Flamengo from Azerbaijan's Qarabag, struggled with limited playing time, averaging only 27 minutes per match across 32 appearances. He scored four goals during his tenure, including goals in the Campeonato Carioca, Libertadores, and Brasileirão. He also noted that adapting to the rhythm of Brazilian football proved difficult, citing Samuel Lino as an example of a player who required time to adjust.
Following his one-year stint, Juninho was transferred to Pumas in early 2026.