Do you feel ready for the challenge of making the leap to Europe and perhaps playing for Barça?
Yes, of course I do. I'm working for this. The competitions I played last year, the Libertadores and the Brasileirao, will help me to be well prepared when I go to Europe. I am very happy to be 18 years old, which already allows me to play outside my country. My goal is to keep working with humility, because with faith in God everything will work out well.
Barcelona already called Ath. Paranaense and expressed their interest in you, how do you deal with this situation?
Look, I try to stay focused on the day to day and give my best in Athlético. I'm sure that, if I do well here, going to Europe will be a consequence.
What do you think when you go out to play every time knowing that the blaugrana technical secretariat is watching you?
It is a great motivation. It is very important and I see it as a reason to want to aspire to more, to want to work harder, which is what I do.
That at the age of 18, just turned 18, you are already a Barça target for this summer, does it show that you are a different, special footballer?
I think so, but I have to be humble so that everything turns out well. That's why I always talk about working and thanking God, which is what makes me different. Without work and without God none of this would be happening.
Barcelona would be an ideal destination considering the list of Brazilian stars who have already played.
Yes, it is a dream not only for me but also for any player who comes along. If I end up going to Barça, it will be a great joy for my family and for me... that's why I have to keep working hard and hope that everything will materialize over time.
The '9' of this Barça that is going for the double is Lewandowski, what strikes you the most?
When I see him on TV I always notice his great finishing power, which I think is his strong point. He is spectacular and I followed him at Bayern Munich and now at Barcelona.
Would the scenario of having the chance to learn with him next season at Barcelona be ideal for you?
Yes, of course it would. If I had a player at my side of this level I would try to learn as much as I could. If this ends up happening I'm sure it would be very important for my career. It would be wonderful.
At Ath. Paranaense you arrived and kissed the saint and became the revelation player of the Copa Libertadores. Do you think you can do the same if you end up going to Barça?
That's something I'll only be able to see when I get there. If it's necessary, of course I'll still have to have a period of adaptation, but in my head is always to play to always help my team.
How do you interpret the fact that Gavi and Pedri, two U-20 players like you, are two of Barça's stars?
It is an added motivation to know that the club values, above all, the quality of the players.
Why is your generation already making a difference?
In my case, I can tell you that it is a direct consequence of my determination and dedication in training and in matches. I am a footballer who always strives to improve.
