Kitchee striker Juninho, originally from Brazil, is nearing the final steps in his journey to become a naturalized citizen of Hong Kong, a move that could significantly bolster the city’s national football team. The 32-year-old footballer, who first moved to Hong Kong in 2016 to play for Tung Sing, is expected to receive his Hong Kong passport shortly, making him eligible to represent the region in international competitions.
Juninho’s decision to adopt Hong Kong citizenship, a process that involves relinquishing his Brazilian nationality, has not been without emotional challenges. Despite reservations from family and friends, and his own feelings of “pain” over losing his Brazilian citizenship, Juninho is committed to this new chapter in his life, driven by a long-held dream to represent a nation on the international stage.
The inclusion of Juninho in Hong Kong’s national squad comes at a crucial time. The team has struggled with scoring, a situation that improved recently with the naturalization of players Everton Camargo and Michael Udebuluzor. Juninho’s impressive record of six goals in seven starts this season for Kitchee indicates that he could provide a much-needed boost to the team’s attacking capabilities.
Head coach Jorn Andersen has expressed excitement about Juninho’s impending naturalization, anticipating that his presence will intensify competition within the squad and enhance the team’s performance. Andersen has been closely monitoring Juninho’s progress and is eager for him to join the team’s training sessions next month.
Juninho’s commitment to Hong Kong football extends beyond the field. He has embraced life in the city, citing its safety and quality of life as key factors in his decision to stay and pursue naturalization, despite offers to play abroad. His aspiration to contribute to Hong Kong’s success on the international stage is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game and his adopted home.
Hong Kong is set to participate in the AFC Asian Cup finals, hosted in Qatar, where they will face formidable opponents in their group, including the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Palestine. The team will undergo a month-long training camp, featuring friendly matches, in preparation for their first game against the UAE on January 14.
Juninho’s journey from Brazil to Hong Kong embodies a story of determination and adaptability, reflecting the increasingly global nature of football. His naturalization marks a significant moment for Hong Kong football, promising to add a new dimension to the team’s strategy and performance in the upcoming Asian Cup and beyond.
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