At just 20 years old, Lucas Beraldo has had an unexpected start to 2024. Recruited by Paris Saint-Germain in São Paulo for €20 million, the young Brazilian defender was immediately launched by Luis Enrique due to the numerous physical problems within the Parisian rearguard (Kimpembe, Mendes, Skriniar, Hernandez). Installed in the axis then at the left-back position, Beraldo has not always performed well, but in his defense, few South Americans who arrived in the middle of a season have been used as much.
His arrival in Europe also allowed him to experience his first selections with the Brazilian national team. A dream for the SPFC kid who found Dorival, his former coach. Unfortunately for him, his three appearances in the Canarinha jersey were not free from all criticism. In Brazil, criticism was even harsh, with many calling for the return of Eder Militão alongside Marquinhos. As the Seleção prepares for its entry into the Copa América, Lucas Beraldo took advantage of his presence at a press conference to discuss his situation.
Beraldo remains confident
“Over time, I gain experience. It’s a new language, a new culture, and it’s normal that I mature a little more. Leaving home, leaving your comfort zone, makes you mature more quickly. You say that it is perhaps a surprise that I am the starter, but I have always prepared myself for this moment. I knew that the opportunity would only come once and that I had to seize it in every way, that’s what I did at PSG and with the national team”he declared, before ensuring that he is not taking advantage of his association with Marquinhos at PSG to have a privilege in the selection.
“Everything is open, he (Dorival, editor’s note) has one week to decide which team will start. I don’t think I have an advantage playing with Marquinhos, we have to show him every day that we deserve it in healthy competition. It’s not because I know Marquinhos better, it’s by showing him on the pitch. It won’t be long before I learn everything Dorival wants us to know. It is only in one gathering that I will learn everything he wants. When I know a little more, I will even be able to help the teammates who are with us. We conceded three goals and we have a week to work on the details so that this does not happen again in the competition. » Answer in a week against Costa Rica.
