Danilo Reflects on Unique Bond with Alex Sandro as Flamengo Launch Documentary
Flamengo defender Danilo has opened up on his "indissoluble" bond with former teammate Alex Sandro, describing their unique partnership which has spanned three clubs and over a decade. The Brazilian full-backs, who have played together since their time at Porto, are now teammates once again at the Brazilian club. Flamengo TV is set to release a 30-minute documentary celebrating the club's recent Copa Libertadores and Brasileirão title wins, with Danilo as a central figure.
Danilo spoke at length about his relationship with Alex Sandro, which began at Porto in 2011. The pair were signed by Porto in the same season and their careers have been remarkably parallel, playing together at Porto, Juventus, and now Flamengo. The 32-year-old defender provided a rare insight into their deep professional and personal connection, formed over more than a decade of shared experiences.
"The fact that we have always played together, I believe, in a way pushed us to give strength to each other," Danilo said. "We grew up practically side by side. We are constantly comparing ourselves. Alex has always been my point of balance, on the pitch, in the dressing room, and in life. He is a less expansive, more thoughtful person. I am more lively, I like to express myself and communicate."
The bond was tested when their paths at Juventus diverged. Danilo was visibly emotional when Alex Sandro departed the Italian club, a moment that underscored their closeness. "When Alex left Juventus, I was moved on the pitch because we had shared so many battles together. I didn't imagine that his departure would be so difficult to face. In that moment, I truly understood how much I would miss him," Danilo explained. He added that their support for each other had extended to their private lives and families, creating a bond that went far beyond the pitch.
Alex Sandro, who left Juventus after a club-record 327 appearances for a foreign player, reciprocated the deep admiration. In a statement, Sandro said, "It’s hard to sum it all up in one thought. For what I know of Danilo, on and off the field, he has always been a point of reference, a person I have always admired. Our story will not end at Flamengo or in football. For me, our bond as brothers, friends, and teammates will last forever."
Their careers have been remarkably intertwined. After conquering Portugal with Porto, they were reunited at Juventus in the summer of 2015, where they played together for eight seasons, winning multiple Serie A titles and Coppa Italia trophies. Danilo's move to Flamengo in 2023, followed by Alex Sandro's free transfer a few months later, reunited the pair in their native Brazil. The documentary, which focuses on Flamengo's recent trophy success, features Danilo prominently and highlights the unique partnership that has defined a significant portion of both players' careers. The pair have now won a combined 28 major trophies during their careers.
