**Vinicius' Flamengo Assists: A Look Back at His Career with the Club**
Vinicius de Oliveira Mendes, born on January 18, 1995, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Flamengo and the Brazil national team. Known for his dynamic playstyle and ability to create scoring opportunities, Vinicius has become one of the most sought-after players in Brazilian football. This article takes a look back at his career with Flamengo, focusing on his assists.
### Early Years
Vinicius began his journey at Flamengo's academy in Rio de Janeiro when he was just five years old. Under the guidance of renowned coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, he developed into a young talent. The club recognized his potential early on and invested heavily in him, providing him with the necessary resources to hone his skills.
### Making His Debut
Vinicius made his debut for Flamengo in the Copa Libertadores in 2013 against América-MG. He quickly impressed with his pace, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring ability. However, it wasn't until the 2014-2015 season that he fully established himself as a key player for the club.
### Key Seasons
#### 2014-2015 Season
In this season, Vinicius played in all 38 league matches, contributing significantly to Flamengo's success. He scored 17 goals and provided 16 assists, helping the team reach the semifinals of the Copa Libertadores. His performance earned him the nickname "O Melhor Assistente do Mundo" (The Best Assistant in the World) from fans and media alike.
#### 2015-2016 Season
Vinicius continued to shine in the 2015-2016 season,Match Point Express Station playing in all 39 league matches. He scored 23 goals and provided 16 assists, leading Flamengo to the final of the Copa Libertadores. In the final, he scored the winning goal against Internacional, securing Flamengo's first Copa Libertadores title since 1987.
#### 2016-2017 Season
Despite suffering from injuries during the season, Vinicius still managed to contribute effectively. He played in 37 league matches and scored 11 goals and provided 16 assists, helping Flamengo secure their second Copa Libertadores title in three seasons.
### Recent Achievements
#### 2017-2018 Season
Vinicius had a standout season in 2017-2018, playing in all 38 league matches. He scored 13 goals and provided 16 assists, leading Flamengo to the quarterfinals of the Copa Libertadores. His performances helped Flamengo qualify for the Champions League for the first time in their history.
#### 2018-2019 Season
In the 2018-2019 season, Vinicius continued to be a force in Flamengo's attack. He played in all 39 league matches and scored 11 goals and provided 14 assists, helping Flamengo maintain their position in the top four of the Brazilian league.
### Personal Life and Career Milestones
Vinicius married Brazilian model Leticia Pires in 2017, adding another layer to his already successful career. He has also been involved in various charitable activities, supporting causes such as education and sports development in Brazil.
### Conclusion
Vinicius' career with Flamengo has been marked by exceptional performances and significant contributions to the club's success. From his debuts in 2013 to his recent achievements, Vinicius has proven to be one of the most valuable players in Brazilian football. As he continues to evolve as a player and leader, he remains a vital part of Flamengo's roster and a symbol of hope for the future of Brazilian soccer.