Racing Club de Strasbourg Alsace and Chelsea Football Club (England) have reached an agreement for the loan – without a purchase option – of Brazilian forward Ângelo Gabriel to Racing until the end of the season.
Born on December 21st, 2004 in Brasilia, the capital of Brazil, Ângelo Gabriel Borges Damaceno was developed at Santos FC, an iconic club whose colors have been worn by legends like Pelé and Neymar. A remarkably talented right winger, he quickly climbed the ranks there and even skipped steps, when aged 15 years old and 308 days back in October 2020 he became the youngest player in the history of the national championship to make his debut in the first team on the Maracanã pitch against Fluminense.
A few months later, in April 2021, at 16 years and 105 days, the prodigy set another record; this time on the international stage by becoming the youngest scorer in the history of the Copa Libertadores (the South American equivalent of the UEFA Champions League) during a match against Argentina’s San Lorenzo. Just 18 years old, regularly selected for Brazil’s U20 team, Ângelo Gabriel played 129 matches with Santos, attracting attention from the biggest European clubs. Chelsea eventually managed to secure his transfer.
A creative left-footed player with elegant ball control, formidable dribbling skills, and a quick touch, Ângelo Gabriel, who the Racing recruitment team had first scouted in October 2021, participated in part of Chelsea’s summer preparation, including the London club’s American tour, before arriving in Strasbourg on August 7.
“I am very excited about this young player who has already played a lot at the highest level in his country. We had already seen him two years ago in Brazil, and we are delighted to welcome him. I am happy that this transfer was possible today. It’s great to see his freshness and contagious joy!” stated Marc Keller, President of Strasbourg.
Donning his number 23 jersey and having greeted his new teammates after visiting the Meinau stadium and the Racing Soprema Park facilities, the Brazilian youngster made his motivation and eagerness clear to all.
“I am very motivated by this challenge, and my goal is to help the team reach the top!” said a smiling Ângelo Gabriel during his first photo session. “I am also excited to discover French football, which is one of the most renowned in the world, with a style of play that I appreciate and that suits me well. I can’t wait for it to start!“
