Fluminense coach Abel Braga has predicted that forward Wellington Nem will shine this season after returning for pre-season in great form.
Nem, 20, has been one of the best young players in the Brasileirão over the past two seasons, firstly with Figueirense, and then last season with the champions Fluminense. But Braga believes there is a lot more to come from his young star.
"I believe this will be the year of Wellington Nem," he told Lancenet!
"He is truly changed, with a desire that is very large. There is a big difference between the player of pre-season this year and 2012.
"He came from Figueirense [last year], and was held in reserve. I think it will be a big year from him. He is a humble boy, always wants to learn. He has learned a lot, and for sure this year will be better.
"How do you think was his participation last year? He arrived in the Brazil squad after a poor pre-season and was held in reserve. This year he is as a starter and starts very well."
Braga also spoke about the other young players at Fluminense and believes they will play a big part again in 2013.
"Now they will get space, above all evolution. Some of them did well last year and took that change. The first year is always an internship, apprenticeship.
"Except that sometimes you have to play, you have to go. We are without a left-back and Eduardo was very good, better than expected. Surely they will be as important as last year."
Source: Lancenet!