Thiago Maia clarifies controversial Gerson statement | OneFootball

Upon his arrival in Brazil on Sunday morning, Thiago Maia was asked to clarify comments he made a few weeks back regarding his new Flamengo team-mate Gerson.

The on-loan Lille midfielder had said that if his French club had allowed him to leave last season, it would have been him instead of Gerson to join the club and lift several trophies.

“I think if it worked out last year, I would have been a champion again. I am very happy for Gerson though,” he told a flock of reporters.

“After I said that, I called and explained the situation, I told him it was not because I was jealous.

“He is a smart guy and replied: ‘stay calm, we’ll wait for you next year’. I’m here and I hope that this week everything will be resolved (with Flamengo).

“I spoke with Rodrigo Caio, Gerson, and even Gustavo Henrique. I am happy to see my former (Santos and Brazil youth international) team-mates.

“Maybe Gabigol too. I hope it can work.”

Thiago Maia has joined Flamengo on loan until the end of December. Flamengo have the option to buy the 22-year-old for between €7m and €8m at the end of the initial agreement.