EXCLUSIVE: Brazil's Luiz Henrique discusses 'father figure' Ancelotti and his Arsenal ambition

Luiz Henrique mentioned that he views the top clubs worldwide as though he is still playing in the underprivileged area from his youth.

A champion of the Libertadores with Botafogo, now at Zenit, he chatted with Flashscore ahead of the Brazil versus Croatia friendly scheduled for Tuesday. Last Thursday, Luiz Henrique substituted in the second half during the 2-1 loss to France, standing out as one of Brazil's strongest performers.

Find the complete interview here.

Flashscore: You entered the Brazil-France match displaying the same carefree style as the young player from Fluminense. How do you manage that?

Luiz Henrique: "Entering the field with fear prevents everything from going smoothly. So, whenever I step in for a game, I imagine I'm back in Vale do Carangola, that neighbourhood in Petropolis, Rio de Janeiro, enjoying time with my old mates."

How was growing up in Petropolis for you?

"It was tough. God picked me to pursue football as a kid. Naturally, there were challenges, but we pushed past them with dedication and modesty."

Did you ever worry about not making it as a professional footballer?

"Yes, at times it felt extremely hard since my family struggled to provide the essentials for me to train. I occasionally doubted if it would happen. I even considered quitting football, which is amusing now, to try judo instead."

Were you skilled at judo?

"I was okay, but football suited me better (laughs)."

How would you describe your bond with Ancelotti?

"He is someone who pays attention to every player. He chats with the whole squad regularly, seeking their views. He acts like a father figure. He likes to know our preferred positions and styles, which helps the team feel comfortable on the field."

The World Cup approaches soon. Are you excited?

"Absolutely, I am just a step away from it. I need to keep performing well for the national side and my club to earn a spot in the final squad."

Do you see yourself returning to Spanish football someday?

"Yes, I enjoyed my time at Betis; it is a well organised club. I plan to focus on my role, bring enthusiasm, and represent my team and Brazil effectively, so if I return, it will be warmly welcomed."

What is your ultimate goal?

"Lifting the World Cup trophy with Brazil. I truly believe we will make the final and claim victory. Afterwards, I aim to move to Europe and join a leading English club."

Any specific English teams appeal to you?

"Arsenal stands out to me, with their dynamic, intense approach. They utilise the flanks a lot, which matches my game. I would love to join them.

"I have talked with Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli; they praise the squad and say Arteta is attentive to the players. Hopefully, I get the chance to collaborate with him."

Do you feel more developed now than at your initial national team selection?

"Definitely, far more so. Earlier, I lacked experience, having just arrived in Europe. The league there built my maturity, and my 2024 season at Botafogo was outstanding. Now, I am steadier, clearer on my aims, and tougher both mentally and bodily."

How is life in the Russian league these days?

"It is a tough competition. Many underestimate it, but it is demanding and physical. The opponents are seasoned, marking tightly, which has helped me develop further for the Brazil team.

"It differs greatly too. Coming from Brazil, the cold is unfamiliar, so thorough warm ups are essential to perform fully, avoiding injuries."