An overcoming journey

Lucas Alves joins Espanyol’s Juvenil A after standing out at Marcet: A Brazilian center-back with great potential.

Lucas Alves, the young Brazilian center-back, has fulfilled one of his biggest dreams: joining RCD Espanyol’s Juvenil A. At just 18 years old, Alves has arrived at Marcet Football University as part of an agreement between the two entities, following three seasons of growth and learning that have shaped him both as a footballer and a person.

From a young age, Lucas felt a unique attraction to Espanyol, a club he always admired from afar. “I was already excited about possibly playing for Espanyol one day because it’s one of my favorite teams in Spain. Now, it’s time to keep working. I’m delighted and eager to get started,” the young center-back enthusiastically comments.

Before joining Marcet Football University, Lucas began his career at Escolinha Toque de Craque in Brazil. However, his time in Barcelona was crucial for his development. “I’ve improved a lot at Marcet. I arrived as a lost child, not knowing how to speak Spanish. It’s been a significant experience in my life. Everything that has happened has led to this reward,” Alves recalls, acknowledging that his adaptation was not easy, but he remained steadfast in his goal of growing both as a footballer and a person.

During his time at Marcet, Lucas faced significant challenges. “What was most difficult for me was the tactical aspect of the game, understanding football better, positioning, and all that. I’ve improved a lot overall, from technique and mentality to making quick decisions,” he explains. He also highlights video analysis as a key tool in his training: “It’s a valuable tool that allows you to improve more and more every day, in every match or training session.”

One of the most emotional moments in Lucas’s career so far was during a match against Real Madrid. “We didn’t win; we drew, but I had the privilege of scoring the goal. It was an important goal for me because my uncle had passed away the day before. I wanted to cry and hug my teammates, which was very important for me because of my uncle. I believe things happen for a reason, and I think the goal happened because of that,” he shares emotionally.

Now, in his new chapter at Espanyol, Lucas Alves is determined to continue growing and taking advantage of every opportunity. With his presence on the field, his strength, and his good aerial play, Lucas has everything he needs to succeed on his new team and continue advancing in his promising career.