The Globe
Joel takes precautions to avoid bad weather in Curitiba
Flamengo coach avoids controversial issues regarding Paraná
Increasingly pragmatic, focused almost exclusively on the mission of keeping the team out of the relegation zone, Joel Santana showed yesterday that his attention is focused on tomorrow's match against Paraná and that he wasn't too keen on creating an unfavorable atmosphere in Curitiba for Flamengo. With aplomb, he sidestepped analyses of the obstacles the red-and-black team will face at the Durival Brito Stadium, such as the pitch or the absence of fans, who have been a driving force in this Brazilian Championship, especially at home.
"We won't be far from our fans. Flamengo fans are always present, everywhere. Playing away from home is a crisis. But you have to win at some point. We'll try to put an end to this situation. And I won't talk about the pitch because I don't want to cause any problems. Tomorrow, everyone stays here, and we'll go there to face the criticism," said the coach, who started Toró in place of the injured Jaílton.
Fla tries to reach an agreement in Türkiye involving Kléberson
While Joel navigates obstacles in Curitiba, legal director Michel Assef Filho is trying to reach an agreement with Besiktas in Turkey regarding Kléberson, who participated in his first collective training session at Gávea with ease. Since FIFA has determined that he must pay Besiktas a €3 million fine and the player has a large amount of money to receive, Michel is trying to reach an agreement that will allow Flamengo to sign a four- or five-year contract. Whatever Flamengo invests to compensate Besiktas will be deducted from the player's salary.
Yesterday, Flamengo opposed the rerun of the old Torneio Início, scheduled for January 20th. The football leadership, which already predicts that the 2008 preseason will not be complete, cited a lack of dates. Despite numerous invitations, time is short, so the preseason will likely be held in a city near Rio.
Sports Journal
Flamengo, a 100% homegrown team
Playing at the Maracanã, close to the red-and-black nation, the team wins. But when they play away from home...
Nathan de Lima
Flamengo's situation in this year's Brazilian Championship is not the best, but compared to the recent campaigns that the club has been doing year after year, the fans can even celebrate the 13th place in the table - with one game less and just two points behind the seventh-placed Sport.
With an excellent record at home and a poor showing away from home, the team led by Joel Santana needs to beat Paraná — this Saturday, at Vila Capanema — to avoid, once again, getting close to the competition's abyss.
Having failed to win away from home since May 20, when they defeated Goiás 3-1 — the team's only away win in the competition —, the club's coach is banking on a midfield formed by Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson and Toró, as Jaílton has not recovered from an injury to his right foot.
Turning 50
Joel Santana has yet to win an away game and warned that for a team to win at their opponent's stadium, they need to give something extra, and that Flamengo has not been able to do that, even though they play well in most matches.
"I have no explanation for our team's inability to win away from home. We even played well, like against Juventude and Palmeiras, but victory ended up slipping away. I don't know what happens, but for Flamengo, playing away from home is always a crisis," said Joel Santana—who hopes to earn another 10 points to finally escape the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship.
"We have 40 points, and if we reach 50, we'll leave this mess to other clubs. To beat Paraná, we need to play a perfect match, because they're always a tough opponent," the coach added.
Kléberson trains for the first time in Gávea
Midfielder Kléberson won't be able to make his Flamengo debut until 2008, but he played his first training session this Thursday at Gávea. The five-time World Cup winner with the Brazilian national team in 2002 played for the reserve team and, despite not having played since April, performed well.
The player made a few misplaced passes, but he was poor at marking. Flamengo has yet to register the player with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). According to the club's board, all the paperwork is ready, but has not yet been submitted.
Reserve goalkeepers will wear number 20
With the retirement of Flamengo's number 12 shirt, which will be dedicated solely to the red-black fans, the club's reserve goalkeepers will wear the number 20 shirt. The new shirt was presented this Thursday, in Gávea, after collective training and seems to have pleased the goalkeepers.
"I've already spoken with Márcio Braga, and the backup goalkeeper will wear the number 20 jersey," said football manager Isaías Tinoco. Diego's debut in the new jersey is expected to take place this Saturday in the match between Flamengo and Paraná.
Former red-black athlete missing
Former Flamengo athlete Sebastião Mendes has been missing since March. He was last seen in the Maria da Graça neighborhood where he lives. It is suspected that he has a degenerative disease—sclerosis or Alzheimer's disease—that was affecting his memory. The former runner—in the 1.500- to 3.000-meter steeplechase category—won numerous national and international competitions. Some of his triumphs: a gold medal at the 1960 Ibero-American Games, silver at the 1963 Pan American Games, silver at the 1956, 65, and 67 South American Championships, among others. The family awaits information by calling (21) 9504-6869, 2260-6410, and 9821-1914.
Léo Moura from Fla still dreams of Amarelinha
Flamengo's top scorer alongside left-back Juan, Léo Moura has been one of the team's biggest standouts in this year's Brazilian Championship. Most fans, and much of the critics, are calling for the player to be included in the Brazilian national team, led by coach Dunga. At the end of yesterday's training session at Gávea, the athlete expressed his displeasure at being out of the national team and took the opportunity to ask coach Dunga for an opportunity.
"Of course I'd like to be on the Brazilian national team. I think I have what it takes to wear that jersey, but what's missing is opportunity. I'll keep working to get there, but always respecting my teammates who are now in Teresópolis," said the full-back.
“I’m a side!”
Leonardo Moura is the great outlet for midfielders this year. Whenever the marking is tight, he's deployed on the right and always plays well. With five goals in the competition, he doesn't like being labeled either a top scorer or a striker, even though he often plays a winger role in Joel Santana's formation.
"I'm a full-back, not a striker. I've already scored five goals in the Brazilian Championship, a first for me. The ball is coming in cleanly, and I'm having the pleasure of scoring," he said.
Fla's defense ready to face the top scorer
Flamengo faces Paraná tomorrow at Vila Capanema, aiming to finally escape the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship. And as if the team's poor away record this year weren't enough, the Gávea team will also face the competition's top scorer with 18 goals—forward Josiel.
Defender Fábio Luciano, who organized the red-black defense, said that the Curitiba team's striker has to be respected by everyone, but he doesn't think it's necessary for coach Joel Santana to send someone to man-mark him.
“I’ve never seen anything like it”
"A player who scores 18 goals in a tough and evenly matched competition like the Brazilian Championship deserves everyone's respect. He won't be specially marked, but we'll be keeping an eye on his movements on the pitch at the always-complicated Vila Capanema," said defender Fábio Luciano, who took advantage of the press conference after yesterday's training session at Gávea to praise Flamengo's fans.
"I've never seen anything like this crowd. I used to play for Corinthians, but back then our team was winning, and that's why the fans packed the stadiums. Here, we're not doing well, and they're going to Maracanã to help us," he said.
Jaílton do Fla: Away from the boots and the field
Midfielder Jaílton was unable to travel with the rest of the group to Curitiba because he still feels the bruise on his right foot, which he received in the team's 2-0 defeat in the Fla-Flu match. Deeply distraught, the player expressed regret at being sidelined at such an important moment. "I was very sad not to be able to play, but I'll recover and be ready for the match against Vasco," he said.
Midfielder Roger continues to train separately from the group. Yesterday, he participated in the traditional pre-workout chat with the coach and then headed to the gym. Striker Leonardo, meanwhile, wasn't even seen at Gávea yesterday.
Fred is as happy as a child
With the support of his family and enjoying his daughter Rebeca, the point guard will soon reinforce Flamengo
Rafael Oliveira
Flamengo point guard Fred is having a special holiday today. Besides being the first Children's Day he's spent with his 7-month-old daughter, Rebeca, he also received the news that he'll be returning to the Flamengo team after a month away. He was the team's standout player last season.
The player has been away from the court since early September. A tibia injury in his left leg kept him out of training and Flamengo's first matches in the State Championship. But this week, club doctors assured that starting on the 22nd, he will be cleared to train with his teammates.
Rivalry\ As the team will face Vasco on the 29th, it is likely that Fred's return will occur in the "classic of millions".\
"Being sidelined is bad for any athlete. I'm very happy to be able to return, especially in a big game like this. Flamengo and Vasco always play very competitive matches."
And there's nothing better than celebrating the good news alongside his wife and daughter, who changed the player's life in such a short time.
"We weren't expecting a child right now. The news made me make new plans. My continued presence at Flamengo is a result of this news. I decided to stay with my family in Rio and renewed my contract with the club."
He admits that he is living one of his best phases.
"It's a totally new experience. It happened at a good time. When my daughter was born, it all clicked. It was exciting."
Reunion
When he returns to training, Fred will reunite with old friends. He previously played alongside his brothers Marcelinho and Duda. He met them both while playing for Fluminense and later returned to play alongside Marcelinho at Botafogo.
"I know both of them very well, and they were already very talented back then. I was very pleased when I heard about their signings by Flamengo."
And in his first match, against Vasco, he'll also reunite with old teammates. He's already played alongside center Luís Felipe and winger Arthur, who now play for Vasco.
O Dia
Flamengo: The fans will return the tribute
Fans are raising money to make a giant flag in the shape of their uniforms.
Marluci Martins
Rio - Love for Flamengo is priceless. This time, for example, it will cost approximately R$12. This is the amount the Flamengo nation will spend in gratitude for the tribute the club's board is paying them with the decision to retire the number 12 jersey starting tomorrow's game against Paraná.
The R$12 will be used to make a giant flag, shaped like a shirt with the number 12. Durable parachute material will be used for the flag, which is still only on paper because the funds need to be raised before the order can be placed.
"The idea is for the flag to be displayed in a different section of the stadium for each game, passing from faction to faction," said José Carlos Peruano, president of the Torcida Urubu Guerreiro fan club. "It's a way to unify the fans; after all, we're already singing a song honoring Flamengo, not a specific faction," he added.
While the red-and-black number 12 jersey has won the hearts and souls of fans, the number 20 jersey has remained silent. Diego, the reserve goalkeeper who will wear it starting tomorrow in Curitiba, declined to speak to the press about the matter.
"He just said he wouldn't talk," summarized the club's press officer, Leonardo André, without knowing what Diego thought of the board's decision to swap his number 12 shirt for number 20, which was already ready.
PAYMENT HAS COME OUT
Whether goalkeeper Diego approved the jersey number change or not was of little concern to his teammates. One piece of good news had the players rushing to the nearest ATM in Gávea yesterday, beaming from ear to ear: management promised that the remaining August pay would be deposited into each player's account that afternoon.
"When they promise, they deliver. I haven't checked yet, but I'm betting on it. This way, we travel more peacefully," said one player, asking to remain anonymous.
It all started in 1895
Flamengo was founded on November 15, 1895. Exactly one year later, one of the most significant changes in its history took place. Because the uniform's blue-and-gold striped shirts were imported from England and faded easily due to the sun and sea during rowing competitions, Nestor de Barros proposed changing them to red and black. Along with this change and Flamengo's growth came the transformation from a group to a club.
During its amateur years (the club only joined the Metropolitan League in 1912), the soccer team, which was disdained by the noble rowing community, didn't take to the field wearing Flamengo's official uniform. In its first game, it wore white shirts and black shorts. Later, it was forced to wear the Parrot of Vintém and the Coral Snake. It only donned the red-and-black jersey in its first official match, on May 3, 1912, at América's field on Rua Campos Sales, when it thrashed Mangueira 15-2.
JOEL SANTANA AND PLAYERS APPROVE THE INITIATIVE
Undeterred by goalkeeper Diego's silence, who preferred not to comment on the retirement of his jersey, the players appreciated the tribute paid to the red-and-black fans. Coach Joel Santana was the first to praise the Gávea board's initiative.
“It's a fitting tribute to a fan base that has always tried to help the club, not only in moments of glory, but also in difficult situations,” said the coach.
Defender Fábio Luciano, the team captain, emphasized the importance of the fans: "They feel important, too. They know they're part of this group, and we have to thank them for their support."
Right-back Leonardo Moura, a fan favorite, thought the retirement of his number 12 jersey was timely. "I can't describe the emotion I feel when these fans chant my name in a packed Maracanã stadium. There's nothing that compares to that," said Leonardo Moura. "The fans truly deserved this tribute," he added.
NO EXPLANATION
So far, Flamengo has won only one away match. The 3-1 victory over Goiás on May 20th came in the second round of the Brasileirão, which leaves coach Joel Santana anxious. What ghost haunts Flamengo away from Maracanã?
Not even Joel has the answer to that. "I can't explain it. It's a crisis," the coach summarized, desolate, already worried about tomorrow afternoon's game in Curitiba.
For Joel, the team will still get going away from Maracanã when they finally win an away match: "We've already taken the São Paulo label by storm by playing here in Rio. Now, when we win an away match, we'll break the spell."
The team that faces Paraná tomorrow is already lined up with Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Rômulo, Cristian, Íbson and Toró; Maxi and Souza.
THE 'MANTLE' BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE
The 'sacred mantle,' once worn by Pelé and Garrincha, now belongs to the people. President Márcio Braga's decision to retire the number 12 jersey in honor of Brazil's largest and most passionate fan base received a standing ovation. Samba singer Ivo Meireles, who, like the vast majority of fans, couldn't afford the club's official jersey (which now costs an average of R$130,00) when he was younger, found the decision more than fair.
In fact, for the Mangueira fan, it was "the most lucid action taken by the club's leaders in the last 20 years." The eternal 'maestro' Júnior wasn't surprised, and like Ivo, believes the tribute was long overdue. For the club, the strength of the fans, who have always been feared and respected by their opponents, deserved the club's recognition long ago.
"The red-and-black fans have long proven that they are the greatest in the world, and that they always support the team, in defeat or victory. It was an absolutely correct decision, but it took a long time to be made," says Ivo Meireles.
Singer Felipe Dylon, who never misses a game at Maracanã, was thrilled with the good news. For him, the fans have always been part of the team and, finally, they've been recognized as official members of the football community. "We carry Flamengo in our veins and souls. Now, we're more respected by the team," he says.
In the same vein, samba singer Dudu Nobre applauds the move and offers another suggestion: retiring Zico's number 10 jersey. "Galinho de Quintino" prefers not to jump on this bandwagon. In Turkey, where he coaches Fenerbahce, Zico has been following the fans' performances in the Maracanã stands online. He was moved, but not surprised, by the crowd's turnout in the games against São Paulo and Fluminense.
"Any tribute to the fans is not enough, considering what they represent and do for the team. It's a shame Flamengo isn't competing for the title. And as for filling the stadium, the numbers once again prove that the Maracanã is the home of Flamengo," Zico believes.
For Júnior, who was thrilled countless times by the fans' screams when he was a player, any kind of tribute is almost nothing 'compared to the grandeur of the red-black fans'.
"I was in Italy and received the footage of the game against São Paulo via email. My Italian friends saw it and went crazy. I even joked and told them that this is how you support Flamengo. And they couldn't believe the team wasn't doing well in the championship," says Júnior.
Dudu Nobre, Ivo, and Júnior, pagode friends, repeat the refrain that they would be deeply saddened if Flamengo and its fans were missing from the world. And like a one-note samba, composer Moacyr Luz adds his own. "The fans' support for the team truly deserves this tribute. Furthermore, it's now official that the fans are the 12th player, playing alongside the team." (Martha Esteves)
Toró will be Flamengo's starting midfielder against Paraná
Rio - Flamengo will have new players for this coming Saturday's match against Paraná in Curitiba, in the 31st round of the Brazilian Championship. Toró will be named as the starting midfielder due to the absence of Jaílton, who still has a problem with his right foot. The player suffered the injury during last weekend's derby against Fluminense, in the 2-0 loss.
Thus, despite coach Joel Santana's initial refusal to confirm the starting lineup, the midfield will be formed as follows: Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró. In addition to Jaílton, the manager hoped to also count on midfielder Renato Augusto, but he was ruled out on Thursday afternoon and will not travel with the Flamengo delegation to Paraná.
"Jaílton's performance is very difficult. He's a dutiful player, physically strong, and marks well. The team lacks a bit of chemistry, as he's been playing with Rômulo and Cristian," said Joel.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo vs Vasco may be postponed again\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The classic match next Thursday, October 18th, between Flamengo and Vasco, still part of the first round of the season, could be postponed once again. This is because the Rio de Janeiro Military Police are reportedly refusing to provide security guarantees for the event, as it will be a game one day after the Brazilian national team's match against Ecuador in the 2010 World Cup qualifiers. Both matches are scheduled for the Maracanã stadium. "Flamengo has not yet received an official statement from the CBF or the Rio de Janeiro State Football Federation. But I sincerely believe they can go ahead with the game. Although I'm not an expert on public safety, I know that a large city like Rio de Janeiro can handle two events on the same day, let alone on different dates," stated Isaías Tinoco.
The match was initially scheduled for July, but had to be postponed because the Maracanã was used in the Pan American Games, held in Rio de Janeiro at that time.
This is the worst time to face Paraná, says Joel Santana\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - This Thursday, coach Joel Santana continued the team's preparations for the match against Paraná Clube. The Flamengo coach expects a very difficult match, as Paraná is in the relegation zone and will be debuting coach Saulo. "Paraná Clube will be playing at home, with the support of their fans, and will also debut a new coach, which always gives the players extra motivation. Without a doubt, if there's a worse time to face Paraná, it's now. But we can't let this situation get us down and must be strong and determined, as we also desperately need a positive result," analyzed Joel Santana.
The team for this Saturday's match will only be determined during Friday's training session in the capital of Paraná. Expectations remain for midfielder Jaílton, who has been complaining of severe pain in his right foot due to a blow in the 2-0 loss to Fluminense. If he's unable to play, Joel Santana's first option will be midfielder Léo Medeiros.
Flamengo issues warning signal against Alício Pena Júnior\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - The selection of the refereeing trio for the 31st round of the Brazilian Championship has set off alarm bells for Flamengo. The club was unhappy with the selection of Minas Gerais native Alício Pena Júnior to officiate this Saturday's match against Paraná Clube in Curitiba. Isaías Tinoco, the Rubro-Negro's football department supervisor, said his team had never managed to leave the field victorious when Alício was in charge. "Flamengo conducted an official survey and found that Alício Pena Júnior has been officiating our games since 2001, and since then, we've never managed to win with him in charge. Unfortunately, this is a very strange coincidence. I remember that the last game he refereed, we were thrashed 4-0 by Figueirense in a highly controversial match. I just hope things change in this game," Isaías lamented.
The Flamengo board's stance, which is common at several clubs in this Brazilian Championship, has been strongly opposed by the president of the National Referees' Commission, Sérgio Corrêa. The director has repeatedly stated that this practice is an "archaic and ineffective attempt to influence the refereeing performance on the field."
Jaílton will not face Paraná\ Gazeta Press\
Curitiba (PR) - The Flamengo delegation traveled to Curitiba, where they face Paraná Clube on Saturday, this Thursday night. The notable absence of midfielder Jaílton was midfielder Jaílton, who was ruled out of the match due to pain in his right foot. Another player who remained in Rio was Renato Augusto, who continues to recover from an injury and has been training separately from the team. In training this Thursday, coach Joel Santana opted to drop Íbson back to the third midfielder position, with Toró providing support for the attackers. The team trained with Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson and Toró; Maxi and Souza.
With 40 points and nine games remaining in this Brasileirão, Joel wants the team focused on the main objective: avoiding relegation. For the coach, with 50 points, the team should breathe easy. "We have 40 points and 27 to play for. Ten more and we'll avoid relegation," he declared.
The manager also highlighted the challenges he expects to face in the capital of Paraná. "Flamengo will have to play a perfect match to get a good result," he explained.
Kléberson: The five-time champion, signed this year but only able to debut in 2008, participated in his first training session at Gávea this Thursday. He played among the reserves in the training session that the starters won 1-0.
PeléNet
Flamengo honors fans and retires number 12 shirt
From UOL Esporte\ In São Paulo\
Flamengo's board of directors has accepted the request of board member Reginaldo Beltrato Carréra Chaves and will retire the team's number 12 jersey in honor of the fan. This means that the number can no longer be worn by any player.
"It's time for the club to retire the jersey bearing the number of the athlete who most honored the red and black colors, on and off the field," says the letter sent by Chaves.
The advisor listed 12 reasons to retire the shirt that represents the fans, among them "he has never missed a Flamengo game", "he always attends every game", "he pays to play and doesn't receive a salary", "he only gets sick when Flamengo loses", "he has already turned big defeats into epic victories" and "there is no other player in the world greater or better than him".
In the document, Chaves further extols the "12th player." "Retiring the number 12 jersey would be the greatest, most beautiful, and unprecedented tribute a club could pay to its fans."
Flamengo is the club with the largest fan base in Brazil. According to the latest Datafolha poll, published in September, the team is favored by 17% of Brazilians (approximately 32 million people), followed by Corinthians, with 12%.
This move, however, is not unprecedented in Brazilian football. The first club in the country to retire the number 12 jersey in honor of its fans was Atlético-MG, during the Série B competition last year.
Renato Augusto is not coming back
Renato Augusto admitted he's been underperforming at Flamengo. Despite this, the midfielder promised to return to the team only when he's at his best. Having recovered from a strained left thigh, the player needs to regain his fitness.
Humble, the young man admitted the need to be in top form to be able to perform and return to show the football that made him a great prospect for the Gávea team.
Flamengo's board says Roger will stay in 2008
From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Despite the difficult times, Roger is in high regard with Flamengo's board. Proof of this is that the Flamengo leadership has guaranteed the supporter's continued presence, at least until next year. The confirmation came from football supervisor Isaías Tinoco.
When asked about the subject, the director made an interesting comparison. "It's like an orchestra, where you buy the instruments. Little by little, you tune them so that everything works out," he said in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Like the management, Roger made no secret of his intention to stay. The midfielder, who even offered to play for free, emphasized the affection he's received from everyone at Gávea.
"The managers and players are giving me great support, and at no point did I consider breaking my contract. When you work in a place where there is no distrust, everything becomes easier," said the player.
Roger is still recovering from intense pain in his left thigh. The midfielder hasn't worn the team's jersey since the 1-0 victory over São Paulo at Maracanã on October 4th in the Brazilian Championship.
Renato Augusto says he will only return to Flamengo when he is 100% fit
From the Placar Agency\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Renato Augusto admitted he's been underperforming at Flamengo. Despite this, the midfielder promised to return to the team only when he's at his best. Although he's recovered from a left thigh strain, he still needs to regain his fitness.
Humble, the young man admitted the need to be in top form to be able to perform and return to show the football that made him a great prospect for the Gávea team.
"I'm a player who relies heavily on my physicality to perform. I don't want to come in and be booed without being able to show what I'm capable of," he said.
BalloonSport
Fla will have the 'Red-Black Nation' shirt
The uniform model will be made by fans and will finance the Training Center
Montage of Flamengo's No. 12 jersey\ If every player takes the field wearing a uniform with a number on their back, Flamengo fans, the new owners of the number 12, will have a personalized jersey. Soon, the club will launch the "Nação Rubro-Negra" model. And the fans themselves will be responsible for creating it.\
In partnership with GLOBOESPORTE.COM, the red-black club will hold a promotion to choose the number 12 shirt. The money raised from the sale of the fan's uniform will be used to build the Ninho do Urubu Training Center in Vargem Grande.
Any fan can participate in the promotion. Simply visit Flamengo's official website (www.flamengo.com.br) starting October 18th, fill out the "virtual form" and submit a design suggestion for the new No. 12 jersey. The three finalists will be announced on November 4th. The winner will be chosen by popular vote between November 4th and 11th.
"This promotion symbolizes the close relationship between the fans and the club. And with the proceeds from the sales, we'll still find a way to resume construction on the training center," says Flamengo's vice president of marketing, Ricardo Hinrichsen.
Although it has not yet been decided, the price of the new product will be affordable.
- It couldn't be any other way, since we will be targeted by piracy - explains the leader.
The idea has already caught on with the crowd, who are starting to create communities on the social networking site Orkut about the number 12 shirt. One of them, in fact, predates the Flamengo board's decision, called "Flamengo, I wear number 12" (http://www.orkut.com/Community.aspx?cmm=27308155), with almost 520 members. The photo that illustrates this community is a montage made by GLOBOESPORTE.COM. Another, much more recent, created this Thursday morning, with just over 35 members, is "Mengo's Number 12 Shirt is Ours" (http://www.orkut.com/Community.aspx?cmm=40292461).
On Wednesday, Flamengo's board announced the retirement of number 12 in honor of the Flamengo fans. Now, it's time to find out which jersey will carry the nation's number.
Promotion schedule:
18/10 - Promotion starts: sending shirt designs 12\ 04/11 - Announcement of the three best ideas and start of voting on the website\ 11/11 - Voting ends\ 12/11 - Announcement of the winning shirt\
Fans receive more praise
For Fábio Luciano, the number's retirement is a reward for the nation's encouragement
Eduardo Peixoto
Sitting in the seats at the side of the field, the few fans who were at Gávea this Thursday became the protagonists of the day. All because of Flamengo's decision to retire the number 12 jersey in honor of its fans (watch the video below featuring the new Flamengo hit).
Smiling, office assistant Fábio Gutemberg was flattered by the gift.
- I'm going to buy a shirt and put my name above the number 12. We deserve it - he boasts.
However, the "honored guest" forgot he was the center of attention and immediately began shouting for players to sign his autographs. Fábio Luciano was one of those who made a point of obliging. He commented on the number's retirement.
"The fans are having a special time and are helping us a lot. Just watch the games with a full Maracanã and you can see that this tribute is well deserved," declares the defender.
Coach Joel Santana followed the same path of reverence for the red-black nation.
- They have always been with us and it is definitely a different crowd - says the coach.
'It's time to disenchant,' says Joel
Flamengo coach believes the team can get a second away win on Saturday.
Eduardo Peixoto
Joel Santana talks to the team
Flamengo's last away win came on May 20th, against Goiás. Since then, much has changed at Gávea. Except for the desire to recapture its away triumphs.
This Saturday, against Paraná, there will be another chance. The opponent is a historic tormentor, but in recent matches, they've been, shall we say, more inoffensive. The last three times they've been to Curitiba, Flamengo returned with all three points: two in the 2005 and 2006 Brazilian Championships and the other in this year's Libertadores.
In 2005, Joel was in charge of the team. And a goal from Obina secured a 1-0 victory and continued promotion to the First Division.
"Paraná had Borges, Thiago Neves...they were a great team. But they're through. We have to focus on today. We're going to fight for 27 more points, and if we get ten, we'll be safe from relegation," the coach declared.
Their current away streak is disheartening. In their five games, Joel has lost four and drawn one. They have four more trips before the end of the season, including this Saturday's game. Flamengo also visits América-RN, Cruzeiro, and Náutico.
"It's time to break the spell. Who knows, maybe we'll win on Saturday and then get some good continuity? Look at São Paulo. We took the sting out of them, and after that, they haven't won again," says the coach, recalling the 1-0 victory over the Brasileirão leader.
Kléberson participates in the first collective
Player can only play in 2008, but trains with Flamengo's reserve team
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléberson's Flamengo debut didn't come until 2008, but this Thursday he made his debut for the red-and-blacks. The five-time World Cup-winning midfielder played for the reserve team in the training session held at Gávea.
Despite his lack of game rhythm, he had a good participation.
Interestingly, Flamengo has not yet registered Kléberson with the CBF. According to the board, all the paperwork is ready, but it has not yet been sent to the Confederation.
Joel Santana selects Flamengo team
Coach starts training this Thursday with Toró in place of Jaílton
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo is scheduled for Saturday's match against Paraná in Curitiba. In a training session on Thursday afternoon, coach Joel Santana lined up the midfield with Toró replacing Jaílton.
The midfielder is still experiencing pain in the instep of his right foot and has been pacing around the pitch. He won't be participating in the match. Therefore, Toró, who played as a striker in the derby against Fluminense, returns to midfield. Incidentally, he scored the starters' only goal in the match.
"This is the midfield. We're losing a bit with the departure of Jaílton, who is a strong player," says coach Joel Santana.
The Red-Black team will play with: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson and Toró; Maxi and Souza.
Council approves third uniform
New shirt will be used in the 2008 State Championship and has some changes
Eduardo Peixoto
This will be the symbol of Fla's new shirt
At a meeting on Wednesday night, the Deliberative Council approved Flamengo's third uniform. The new jersey will pay homage to rowing and will feature the regatta symbol replacing the traditional "CRF."
The colors will be the traditional red and black, and the uniform will feature horizontal stripes. However, one of the stripes will be white. The uniform is expected to be worn in the 2008 Rio de Janeiro State Championship.
In childhood, longing for parents hits hard
On Children's Day, boys who live far from home get emotional when talking about their family
Fabricio Costa
The boys who live in the accommodation: Bruno, Maicon, Lorran, João, Edgar, Gustavo, Vinícius, Rafael, Luiz, Leozinho and Joaquim, with the exception of this one
From afar, you can see two mansions with Flamengo crests. Closer, three fields indicate that this is the training center for the country's most popular club. Like a dream factory, the Vargem Grande training center welcomes boys between the ages of 14 and 17, who train incessantly and sleep in the hope of one day being like Ronaldo, Kaká, or Romário. They only stop to think about life outside the confines of the confines on special dates, like October 12th. Just ask 15-year-old Leozinho.
"I arrived at Flamengo's hostel when I was 12. But we don't live just for football. I miss my parents a lot, especially on Children's Day. Church is what gives me the strength to keep fighting here in Rio. Every Thursday I go to the Assembly of God in Barra da Tijuca. I don't like keeping photos of my relatives. Their memories are in my heart," says the Pernambuco striker, whose best friend in soccer is midfielder Jônatas, formerly of Flamengo and now at Espanyol.
"I've been to his house three times in Ceará. He's like a father to me. On Children's Day, I'll remember him too."
Edgar: keep an eye on the ball and the portraits kept under lock and key in the accommodation
End of torment
Joaquim Telles, from Mato Grosso, is having better luck than his teammates living in the dorm. But, like everyone else living at Flamengo's, he also misses his father, who lives in Sinop.
"I was away from my parents for a year and a half. I lived with an uncle who had health problems in Vila Isabel. In early 2007, my mother decided to move here to take better care of me. As for my father, I only see him via webcam. He still lives in Mato Grosso," says the team's number 10, who shares his birthday with his idol Romário, January 29th, and will ask for an iPod as a gift.
Cruel routine
Zé Ricardo: Coach considers himself a big brother to the boys. Training for the children's category ends. The boys listen to coach Zé Ricardo's advice. Next Sunday, there will be another Carioca Championship game. Everyone knows the competition schedule by heart. But they struggle to answer what they will do on their day: Children's Day.
"We should play video games and watch cable TV. I only see my parents once a year. I'm going to spend Children's Day looking at the poster with messages of support they gave me. I've been at Flamengo's training camp for five months. I still miss them so much," says goalkeeper Gustavo Vanin, nicknamed "Pato" by his teammates due to his resemblance to the Milan striker.
More sentimental, center forward Vinícius Maciel vents:
- My parents call me every other day. And I try to go home at least twice a year. I'm counting down the hours until December arrives. They say they want to hug and kiss me. The best Children's Day gift would be their presence here in Rio. But I know that won't happen.
Big Brother
In order to fill a gap in the training of young football players, coach Zé Ricardo plays a fundamental role.
"I'm like a big brother. The older brother in the family who gives advice and tries to bridge the gap between them and their parents. Here, they learn to follow rules and be disciplined, but they also need affection. The boys' relatives always contact me when they're in Rio. They say they're worried, but they trust Flamengo's professionals."
Inseparable amulet
Lorran admits that when homesickness hits, the only way is to turn to his amulet: "Anything goes to remember the ones we love." The words of Michel Lorran's midfielder express well what the boy from the city of Barra das Garças, in the interior of Mato Grosso, does to minimize the absence of his parents in his daily life.
"To remember my father, I keep a shirt that smells like him. I don't wear it under any circumstances. I'll just wear it to take the photo, okay?" says Michel Lorran, who arrived at Flamengo's training camp three months ago, coming from the Fluminense youth academy.
Letters to ease the longing
An old-fashioned romantic, Maicon's memory is drawn from the letters he collects with his mother's inscriptions. And while his family awaits him in the interior of Rio de Janeiro, in Engenheiro Paulo de Frontin, the boy strives to one day provide a better standard of living for his four siblings and his parents. A present on this special occasion? He dismisses it with the caution of someone resigned to what little he has.
"I'm going to ask my mom for some sneakers for Children's Day. But I won't charge much. I know my parents can't afford to give me many things. Since they live in the countryside of Rio, I miss them by reading the letters my mom writes me," Maicon declares.
National team training will be closed to the public
During Monday's activity, only members enter the club to watch the stars
Eduardo Peixoto
Flamengo took precautions and, to avoid disturbances, decided that the Brazilian national team's training session at Gávea Stadium will be closed to the public. The training session is scheduled for Monday afternoon, the day before the match against Ecuador.
According to a statement from the club, only members and journalists will have access to the headquarters.
During the team's visit to Rio de Janeiro, Flamengo acts as a sort of host. In addition to Gávea being chosen as the training ground, the Flamengo team was responsible for all ticket sales for the match at Maracanã.
Without the 12, Diego will be Flamengo's number 20
The number used by the reserve goalkeeper is retired in honor of the fans.
Since Flamengo retired the number 12 jersey in honor of the red-and-black fans, the backup goalkeeper, who has recently been Diego, will have to wear a jersey without that number. The issue appears to have been resolved within the club's board:
- I've already spoken to president Márcio Braga and the reserve goalkeeper will wear the number 20 shirt - says Isaías Tinoco, football manager, to Rádio Brasil.
Diego's debut with the new shirt is expected to take place this Saturday, in the game between Flamengo and Paraná, for the Brasileirão.
Throw
Fla: midfielder Kleberson is registered
Player will be able to play for the red-black team from February 4, 2008
Kleberson participates in his first training session at Flamengo (Credit: Cleber Mendes)
GUILHERME DE PAULA MACHADO AND RODRIGO BENCHIMOL
Flamengo managed to register Kleberson with the Rio de Janeiro Football Federation (Ferj) on the 4th. With that, the four-month penalty imposed by FIFA came into effect and Kleberson will be able to play from the same day in February 2008 (the State Championship will start on January 16th).
Santos and São Paulo's withdrawal from signing him signaled a complicated situation. Flamengo decided to face it head-on and began trying to resolve the midfielder's situation, after he was punished for unilaterally breaching his contract with Besiktas of Turkey.
The destination of Eduardo Manhães, the club's executive director of football, traveled there in recent days. The club's director will meet with the Turks to try to find a viable solution to ease Kleberson's debt to the club.
In addition to the four months without being able to play, the defensive midfielder has to pay approximately R$7,6 million (three million euros) to Besiktas. The player appealed both penalties to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Switzerland, which will rule on the merits of the case in mid-2008. If the penalties are upheld this time, they will only come into effect, according to Flamengo's legal department, in 2009.
According to LANCE!, Eduardo Manhães will attempt to negotiate these amounts with the Turkish club, which has a good chance of prevailing in this CAS trial. Since Flamengo is now a joint and several debtor, the director will attempt to find a solution to mitigate any potential losses.
Since Flamengo does not have the purchasing power to pay this amount, negotiations with the Turks may include the percentage of some Flamengo players – whose names have not yet been decided and should be studied.
While this whole mess is being resolved, Kleberson is training with the rest of the group and, this Thursday, played his first training session (among the reserves). His contract with Flamengo ran until December 2008, with an average monthly salary of R$140.
Flamengo pays August salaries
As a result, only September salaries are pending.
Flamengo paid the remaining 50% of its players' August salaries this Thursday. In the coming days, the remaining 50% of its employees earning over R$1800 will also be paid. As a result, the club now only owes September salaries.
According to the finance department, some prizes for victories in the Brazilian Championship are expected to be paid next week. Each player will receive approximately R$15 in bonuses. However, there is still no date for the payment of this year's state title prize, which is slightly higher.
Only praise for Flamengo fans
Players and Joel Santana commented on the tribute to the red-black nation
Flamengo fans, the new owners of the club's number 12 shirt (Credit: Paulo Wrencher)
The tribute to Flamengo fans with the retirement of the number 12 shirt was one of the main topics between the players and Joel Santana, who never tired of praising the fans and remembering the support they have received in times of joy and sadness.
radio l! - Flamengo fans are happy, they're a different kind of fan base. They help us in happy times and also in sad times. It was a fitting tribute - said Joel Santana. (Click and listen)
Léo Moura recalled that the red-and-black fans are spread across every corner of Brazil:
"This tribute had to happen. Everywhere we play, there are people, even if it's just 20 people. I'm very proud when they chant my name," he said.
The person who most praised the new owner of Flamengo's number 12 shirt was Fábio Luciano, accustomed to large crowds (he used to play for Corinthians), and who hopes to leave his name in the hearts of the fans:
"It's different here. The fans turn out incredibly well. It's a new situation for me. I really get emotional at Maracanã games. It's a wonderful and well-deserved tribute. They deserve congratulations, and we can only thank them," he said.
Fábio Luciano expects a difficult game
Flamengo defender Fábio Luciano expects a tough match against Paraná next Saturday. He believes the opposing team's current situation will make the match more difficult, as Paraná is fighting relegation. In the defender's opinion, another factor that could further complicate the match is the arrival of Paraná's new coach, Saulo de Freitas.
radio l! - They have this extra motivation: the new coach. They also suffered a defeat in the last game and will want to win - he analyzes. (Click and listen)
Fábio Luciano guarantees that he no longer thinks about the defeat to Fluminense, last Sunday, and only worries about the Rubro-Negro's next comforts.
radio l! - We don't live in the past. Neither in victories nor in defeats. We can't think about that, we always have to face the next game - he explains. (Click and listen)
Josiel will not have special marking from Fla
Fábio Luciano says the top scorer will be marked harshly
For the match against Paraná this Saturday in Curitiba, Flamengo's defense will have to be wary of Josiel, the Brazilian league's top scorer with 18 goals. But Fábio Luciano guarantees that the striker won't be specially marked, despite considering him dangerous.
"He's a fast, mobile player. There won't be any special marking, just strict marking. Not just on him, but on all the other players," the defender stated.
Fábio Luciano recalled that Paraná is not just Josiel and that it will be a decisive game for both teams' ambitions in the Brazilian Championship.
"They're an opponent we respect as a whole. They need a win just as much as we do. From now on, every game will be a decisive one," he stated.
Paraná is in the relegation zone and Flamengo is still at risk of being relegated.
Former Flamengo player is featured in SuperSurf
Teammate of Juan, Adriano and Júlio César in the youth categories, Anselmo Correia wins in Rio
Anselmo advances to the third phase in the waves of Recreio (Credit: Nilton Santos)
Breno Dines Costa
A former Flamengo youth player was one of the standout performers on the second day of the grand final of the Brazilian Professional Surfing Circuit, which runs until Sunday in Rio de Janeiro. Rio de Janeiro native Anselmo Correia, who played alongside renowned names in Brazilian soccer from the ages of nine to 14, put on a show this Thursday on the small waves of the tournament's alternative venue: Canto do Recreio dos Bandeirantes, in Rio's West Zone.
"I played with Júlio César, Juan, and Adriano. Sometimes I run into them at airports and we chat. It was a radical change. At 13, I started surfing; even my nickname at Flamengo was Surfistinha. But I ended up with a groin problem, and I was out of action for seven months. I lost motivation for soccer and started surfing," he said.
Runner-up in the SuperSurf in 2002 and currently ranked 30th, the Rio native doesn't regret having traded the chance to shine in Brazil's Most Beloved for the waves.
"Of course, financially speaking, you earn more in football, but I'm happy like this, with my family and friends. That's what matters," the runner-up added.
Anselmo secured a place in the third phase of the competition after defeating São Paulo's Jair de Oliveira by 14 (out of a possible 20) to 10,5 points.
Former red-black athlete is missing
Sebastião Mendes suffered from a degenerative disease
Sebastião has been missing since March of this year
Sebastião Mendes, a former Flamengo athlete and one of the Brazilian athletics representatives at the 1960 Rome Olympic Games, has been missing since March 2007. People close to him suspect that Sebastião suffers from a degenerative disease (sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease), which was causing memory lapses.
The former athlete defended the colors of Flamengo from 1952 to 1970, accumulating several state and national titles.
Anyone with any information about the athlete can contact us at (21) 9504-6869 - Alessandra Costa or (21) 9821-1914 and 2260-6410 - Rosangela Costa.