Eighteen years old, shy, he walks to Flamengo training and is deeply confident of winning the Brazilian title. This is Aírton. A young talent for the Flamengo squad, he receives the utmost affection from coach Caio Júnior, his teammates, and the Flamengo board.
In an exclusive interview to the site FLAMENGO RJ, the player commented on several issues related to Flamengo's current situation in this Brazilian Championship.
Due to his shyness in interviews, a new practice in his life, Aírton is economical in his answers, but manages to make everything that goes through his head clear.
“Decision” against São Paulo:
"The group is focused and understands the importance of this game. If we win, we'll get closer to the teams that are further ahead. This is undoubtedly our championship "final."
Flamengo's objective in the Brazilian Championship:
"My focus and that of the group is on the title. That's what we're thinking about first. A place in the Libertadores is a secondary concern right now. Flamengo wants the title."
Dispute for starting position in the team:
"I started a few games, and I was happy about that. A lot of quality players have arrived, and coach Caio Júnior is the one who selects the team. If he needs me, I'll step in and live up to expectations."
Work by coach Caio Júnior:
"He's a calm, transparent person, he speaks his mind, he helps us a lot, and he's definitely an excellent coach. His relationship with the group is the best possible."
Contractual status:
- I'm linked to Nova Iguaçu and have a contract with Flamengo until December 31, 2008. Flamengo has the priority of purchasing 50% of my federation rights from Nova Iguaçu at the end of the contract. They haven't spoken to me yet, but I'm sure everything will be resolved by the end of the year.
Walk to training in Gávea:
- I used to live in Ninho do Urubu and take the bus to training in Gávea. With the club's help, I'm living in Ipanema and walk to training. When training is at Ninho do Urubu, I walk to Gávea and then take the club bus to the training center.
Joy of playing for Flamengo:
"It's definitely a source of great joy for me. I haven't achieved anything yet, and I want to work hard to shine for Flamengo. Aírton still has a long way to go in Brazilian football."
Ronaldo Phenomenon:
"I haven't had the opportunity to meet him at Gávea yet. He's one of my soccer idols, and I'm looking forward to that moment."
Message for FLAMENGO RJ internet users:
"I want to send a hug to everyone who participates on the site and ask that you continue to believe in our group. The team is a winner, and we'll fight for the title until the end of the Brazilian Championship."
Vinicius Castro is a reporter for the FLAMENGO RJ website.