Loved by some, and hated by others, Grêmio midfielder Douglas is still seen as a major part of the club’s starting XI, thanks to the appreciation of coach Roger Machado.
Considered by British tabloid The Guardian as one of the most promising players in the world, Grêmio youngster Lincoln, who came through the club’s youth system, had impressed former coach Luiz Felipe Scolari when he was just 15 years old. The coach even wanted to use Lincoln in the first team, but was prevented by President Fábio Koff. He explained to Scolari that until the age of 16, players have amateur contracts and cannot play for the professionals. But as soon as he turned 16, Lincoln was integrated to the senior squad. However, Lincoln was mainly used as an alternative, and made some cameo appearances. Now 17 years old, he is more mature, stronger, and gives signs that he may become a starter at the club earlier than expected. When he worked for the reserve team, he has always been the best in the game. Giving key passes, winning fouls, making assists, and last Saturday he scored the first goal of the season against Cruzeiro-RS.
The teenager has won the hearts of the club’s supporters, and it’s not uncommon to see fans asking through social networks for Lincoln in place of Douglas. According to Globo Esporte, Lincoln was watched by Premier League sides Manchester United and Leicester City earlier, but a move cannot materialize until he turns 18.
Loved by some, and hated by others, Grêmio midfielder Douglas is still seen as a major part of the club’s starting XI, thanks to the appreciation of coach Roger Machado.
Considered by British tabloid The Guardian as one of the most promising players in the world, Grêmio youngster Lincoln, who came through the club’s youth system, had impressed former coach Luiz Felipe Scolari when he was just 15 years old. The coach even wanted to use Lincoln in the first team, but was prevented by President Fábio Koff. He explained to Scolari that until the age of 16, players have amateur contracts and cannot play for the professionals. But as soon as he turned 16, Lincoln was integrated to the senior squad. However, Lincoln was mainly used as an alternative, and made some cameo appearances. Now 17 years old, he is more mature, stronger, and gives signs that he may become a starter at the club earlier than expected. When he worked for the reserve team, he has always been the best in the game. Giving key passes, winning fouls, making assists, and last Saturday he scored the first goal of the season against Cruzeiro-RS.
The teenager has won the hearts of the club’s supporters, and it’s not uncommon to see fans asking through social networks for Lincoln in place of Douglas. According to Globo Esporte, Lincoln was watched by Premier League sides Manchester United and Leicester City earlier, but a move cannot materialize until he turns 18.
