Portland Timbers star Evander linked to Brazil’s top clubs after standout MLS season

Evander is causing a sensation in MLS. With his vision of the game and skill, Portland Timbers' midfielder has won a highlighted place in the American League and does not hide his ambition for the Brazilian National Team. His performance, even at a team that didn't make it into the playoffs, shone bright enough to get him a nomination for Player of the Season alongside stars such as Messi and Luis Suárez. Recently, he made it clear in an interview on the Charla Podcast that his future is full of open doors-a returning home to Brazil perhaps?.

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But what is all the fuss over Evander? And what do recent comments by him about Vasco, Flamengo, and the Portland Timbers reveal about his aspirations? Let's take a deeper look into the impact this midfielder is making in MLS, having the desire to get back into Brazilian soccer, and what he sees for his career.

Evander and the Portland Timbers: Talent Amid Challenges

The talent of Evander speaks for itself. Contributing 34 goals in 28 games, he has been one of the big surprises of the MLS season. His performance, even in a team that struggled to find its rhythm and missed out on the playoffs, was at least good enough to make some noise to get him nominated as Player of the Season. Evander's particular blend of skill and game intelligence puts him in some pretty heady company-from Messi and Suárez to other league stars.

Life in Portland hasn't just been goals and plaudits, though. At the season's midpoint, the Timbers were thrashed 5-0 by the Vancouver Whitecaps, and Evander pulled no punches as he laid into the club's management. In one incendiary posting, he wrote, "the Portland fans don't deserve the people in power at this club."The hard-hitting words indeed validate the fact that though he deeply cares for the team, he substantiates that the club could do better for its fans and players as well.

Brazilian Clubs Eyeing Timbers' Talent

With the performance Evander is putting up in the U.S., it's natural that the Brazilian market would turn its eyes to him. And, quite apparently, offers are already arriving. In his interview, he let it spill that Flamengo and Palmeiras, two of the biggest clubs in Brazil, have already shown interest in hiring him for 2024. It's said that Flamengo offered up to $7 million. However, one thing was very clear: Portland Timbers does not want to let him go.

However, Evander does not rule out the possibility of a transfer. For him, going back to Brazil means the chance to develop, be in the spotlight, and earn a place in the national team. "I want to take advantage of this moment, with the restructurings of the national team, to stand out," he said, realizing this rebuilding phase of Brazil's team may mark one of those rare opportunities when new talent gets a chance to stand out.

He is also open about the day he will return to Vasco, the club that formed him. Even with approaches by other Brazilian teams, he leaves the door open for a comeback at São Januário-so long as the interest is mutual. Evander had confirmed that he did not leave Vasco on bad terms and that if the chance arose, he would return to make history with the team once more.

MLS and the Brazilian National Team

Evander has made it clear: he wants to wear the yellow and green jersey. He is doing quite well in the MLS, but Brazil and Europe are a chance to get closer to the coaching staff of the national team. It is an important showcase for a player who is doing well and is at his prime, but he knows his chances increase in more traditional leagues.

My first goal is to go back to Brazil or Europe, but to go back to be seen. I want to be in the national team," he said. Evander knows this present transition phase in the Brazilian team might just be the ideal time for someone of his profile. He's ready to put in all the hard work to capture that position, from the MLS or Brazil to any major club elsewhere.

But based on the statistics alone, Evander's already in elite territory. Having 34 direct goal contributions in just 28 matches, he has shown consistency and skill; those always being two qualities that will attract interest from top teams and the national squad. Being in the running for Player of the Season with high-profile names is only confirmation that Evander isn't another good player in MLS; he is definitely an standout.

A Rising Star with More to Prove

Evander is a rising star for Portland Timbers fans, but the player himself makes it clear he wants more. He's hungry for challenges, eager to be noticed, and he wants to reach the national team. And by all indications, he's on the right path. Whether the future holds his place among the most notable names of Brazil or even Europe, then Evander will be ready to seize it fully. And with a serious offer coming in, it seems the Timbers won't stand in his way.