Crystal Palace’s pursuit of Wallace Yan has taken another twist, as the Flamengo youngster continues to attract headlines in Brazil — this time for his discipline rather than his talent.
Former Tottenham Hotspur left-back Gilberto, who worked for four years as Flamengo’s academy technical coordinator, has urged the 20-year-old winger to show maturity amid growing concerns about his attitude. Speaking to Globo Esporte, Gilberto described Wallace as “a good kid” with “huge potential” but warned that his confidence has occasionally crossed into arrogance.
“He’s got a lot of talent, that’s always been obvious,” Gilberto said. “But the behavioural side was always an issue too. He’s young, thinks he can do anything — thinks he’s Superman.”
The remarks come as Wallace faces renewed scrutiny following his red card against Bahia last month, when he received two yellow cards within ten minutes of coming off the bench. Flamengo responded with a fine, signalling the club’s dwindling patience with a player once viewed as one of Brazil’s brightest youth prospects.
Gilberto’s Tough Love – “He Has to Listen”
Gilberto’s comments mixed empathy with stern advice. “At that age, it’s normal not to listen much,” he admitted. “I was 18 once and didn’t listen either. It wasn’t for lack of warning. I really liked him and always talked to him. What people at the club are doing now, and will keep doing, has already been done before. The key is for him to listen, understand, and apply that in his daily life.”
The former defender, who oversaw Flamengo’s Individual Development Plan (PDI) between 2018 and 2022, said that while mental coaching can help, it will only work if Wallace genuinely commits to change.
“It’s no use hiring a mentor, a priest, or anyone else if he doesn’t really understand what’s being said,” he said.
Wallace has reportedly started working with a sports psychologist to address his temperament and focus issues — a move widely seen as a step in the right direction.
From Flamengo’s Hope to Palace’s Gamble
Wallace Yan joined Flamengo’s academy on loan in 2021 before signing permanently a year later. Highly rated for his explosive pace and one-on-one ability, he quickly rose through the ranks and made his senior debut in 2023. However, a series of disciplinary lapses and inconsistent performances have stalled his progress.
Despite the turbulence, interest from Crystal Palace remains strong. Palace scouts have been monitoring the winger for months, viewing him as a potential long-term replacement for Michael Olise, whose own Premier League rise has set a high bar for attacking talent in South London.
Yet the move could hinge on how Wallace handles the coming weeks. Flamengo officials are believed to be torn between cashing in during the January transfer window and giving him one final chance to prove he can stay focused.
| Stat (2025 Season) | Wallace Yan |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 14 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Yellow Cards | 5 |
source: Globo Esporte & sofascore match data – 11 October 2025
The statistics reflect the contrast in Wallace’s game — moments of brilliance overshadowed by lapses in discipline. Palace see untapped potential, but there’s awareness that attitude will determine whether he adapts to the intensity of Premier League football.
Analyst Verdict – “Superman Syndrome” or Super Talent?
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Gilberto’s assessment highlights a common challenge among elite prospects. “Wallace Yan has all the technical tools — acceleration, flair, confidence — but what separates promise from success is mindset,” he said. “The ‘Superman’ comment isn’t about arrogance; it’s about immaturity. He needs to understand when to express himself and when to stay disciplined.”
William added that a move to Crystal Palace under Oliver Glasner could be the turning point. “Palace’s environment could ground him — structured, demanding, but supportive. If he channels that self-belief properly, he could follow the same trajectory as Olise or Eze.”
Key Insights
- Gilberto: “He’s young, thinks he’s Superman — but a good kid with a big heart.”
- Flamengo fined Wallace Yan after his red card against Bahia.
- Player now undergoing mental coaching to improve discipline.
- Crystal Palace remain interested ahead of the January window.
- Decision time approaching: Premier League debut or hard reset in Brazil.
What’s Next for Wallace Yan
Wallace’s short-term future hinges on whether he can prove to Flamengo that he’s matured both mentally and professionally. His behaviour on and off the pitch over the next month could determine if a move to Selhurst Park becomes reality.
Crystal Palace are expected to revisit talks in December, with Flamengo open to negotiations if progress continues. For now, the message from Brazil is clear: talent alone won’t be enough — attitude will decide his fate.
👉 Can Wallace Yan prove he’s ready for the Premier League spotlight — or will his “Superman” mentality bring him crashing back to earth?
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