Author: Monojit Mandal
Corinthians have signed two important reinforcements for next season, as the transfer market draws to a close next Wednesday (August 2). Among the new arrivals are Paraguayan midfielder Matas Rojas, who has already won the hearts of Timo fans, and former Brazilian international defender Lucas Verssimo.
The signing of Verssimo aroused the curiosity not only of Corinthians fans, but also of other Brazilian soccer teams who had been monitoring the player during his time at Benfica in Portugal. The talented defender will wear the number 3 shirt, which has a long history at Corinthians. Verssimo revealed that he had received a telegram from none other than Chico, a respected former player who left a lasting mark by wearing the same number for Alvinegro Paulista.
In an interview, Verssimo expressed his gratitude for Chico’s gesture, saying: “He (Chico) left me a message when he found out I’d be taking third place.” I’m going to do everything I can to honor that number, whether it’s for goals or not… And I want to contribute to Corinthians by helping in defense. That’s my goal“. Such sentiments have touched the fans, who are eager to see the defender’s efforts to emulate Chico’s legacy on the pitch.
Very true news:
LUCAS VERÍSSIMO DA SILVA IS FROM TIMÃO! ⚫⚪#WelcomeLucasVeríssimo#VaiCorinthians pic.twitter.com/JfhCJBWL3M
– Corinthians (@Corinthians) July 26, 2023
Chico’s career with Corinthians is simply legendary. The talented defender joined the São Paulo club after they were relegated to Serie B in 2007 and was instrumental in the team’s recovery. Chico collected an extraordinary eight championships in five brilliant years, including the coveted Copa Libertadores and Club World Cup success in 2012.
Expectations are high now that Verssimo is taking the place of a former idol. The qualities demonstrated by the defender, together with Chico’s success story, caused a wave of euphoria among Corinthians fans and the soccer community in general.