" I joined Benfica from Brazil, but from the car which came to pick me up from the airport, I kept seeing all these signs which said, ‘Alverca,’ ‘Alverca,’ ‘Alverca.’ So I asked, ‘Where are we going?’ The answer was the one that I feared: ‘We’re going to Alverca, to your apartment.’ Once I got inside I cried with rage. "
- Deco

In the quote provided, a soccer player recounts his initial feelings upon arriving at his new home in Alverca, Portugal after joining Benfica from Brazil. He expresses frustration and disappointment when he realizes that instead of being placed near the team's facilities or in an urban setting, he is taken to a more remote area where he feels isolated and unsupported.

The deep meaning behind this quote lies in the sense of isolation and cultural dislocation experienced by immigrants and athletes moving to new environments. It highlights the emotional impact of uprooting one’s life and adjusting to unfamiliar surroundings without the immediate comfort of established connections or the vibrancy of city life. This sentiment resonates with anyone who has had to adapt to a drastically different living situation, underscoring the challenges that come with such transitions.

The quote is attributed to Deco, a renowned Brazilian midfielder known for his time at FC Porto and Barcelona in addition to his stint at Benfica. His candid reflection on his early days as a professional athlete not only offers insight into the personal experiences of an elite player but also speaks to the broader human experience of relocation and adaptation.