The Globe
Bet on Messi's cousin
Argentine Maxi is confirmed at Flamengo in place of Renato Augusto for the Fla-Flu
Photo caption: Chased by two markers, Maxi Biancucci starts to attack in yesterday's training session at Granja Comary: the Argentine will start playing for the first time
Márcio Tavares
Despite the sense of relief after Saturday's 2-1 victory over Náutico, the mood at Flamengo is still far from being completely calm. Coach Joel Santana confirmed the introduction of Argentine Maxi Biancucci in place of Renato Augusto, capitalizing on the wave of enthusiasm and optimism created by his introduction in the last match, but he is certain that the red-and-black team is far from ideal.
- Maxi came on well, he gave the attack more speed, getting to the opponent's goal quickly, but we still need to improve a lot - recognizes Joel Santana.
Messi's Argentine cousin, the Barcelona star who came on in the second half to replace Renato Augusto, was pleased with his sudden rise at Flamengo after his confident performance on Saturday. But he knows he has to fight a lion every day. He's still adapting at Gávea and is aware that his starting spot in the derby is linked to a muscle problem responsible for the absence of Renato Augusto, who is fit to face Palmeiras on Sunday in São Paulo.
Joel remembers that the situation is delicate
At 21, Maxi confirms the words of Valdir Espinosa, who recommended him to Flamengo because he believed in his football. Those expecting a new Peralta are surprised by his behavior, which differs from most young people in his profession who are beginning to gain notoriety. Quiet, discreet, smiling in conversation, but serious within the work group.
In his short time at the club, Maxi has already experienced one of the many conflicts that the fans' heightened passion causes when the team isn't doing well. And he's aware that expectations for him are high. This is largely due to his kinship with the Barcelona player and a good part due to Argentine tradition.
"When we wear this shirt, we realize that the expectations are very high. We'll do everything we can to find the best formula for the next game," said the player, avoiding making a statement about himself. When he played for Deportivo Luqueño in Paraguay, Maxi heard a lot about Brazilian rhythms, like axé music, funk, etc. Living in Rio, he feels at home.
"A friend of mine always talked to me about Ivete Sangalo and funk. I like Ivete's songs and the funk rhythm, but I'm not much of a dancer," he revealed.
Maxi isn't one for promises or exaggerated celebrations either. But he's aware of the rivalry and the importance of scoring a goal right away:
"It's a different game, and a goal is a unique moment. But I don't know how I'd celebrate. I don't plan on it," Maxi said, assuring that he doesn't plan on dancing cumbia after a goal, like his compatriot Tevez did.
Celebration plans aren't on Joel Santana's drawing board either. The coach remains concerned about Flamengo's situation in the Brazilian Championship. In other words, he says there's no reason to celebrate.
"Of course, the team achieved a hard-fought victory, but we're still far from ideal. We're still in the relegation zone, and that has to change. We have games in hand, but we're not winning; it's no use. That's why we have to work hard. Football is about repetition, about training over and over again. We're losing focus during games, and the goals we concede are because of that. To end it, we just have to train hard."
Yesterday afternoon, on his first day of training in Teresópolis ahead of Thursday's derby against Fluminense at Maracanã, Joel Santana led a training session at the chilly Granja Comary stadium, which saw the starting players win 2-0, with goals from Roger, a surprise. Paulo Sérgio, who started against Atlético-PR, didn't even train with the reserves. He did separate exercises.
Teams can field reinforcements for games postponed by the Pan American Games
CBF decision allows Fla and Vasco to use the entire group in the classic
CBF technical director Virgílio Elísio made his decision yesterday and guaranteed: all players registered by September 14th (deadline for transfers) will be able to participate in the matches that had their date changed due to the Pan American Games in Rio.
According to Elísio, the CBF's decision was based on the assumption that these games were not postponed, but rather rescheduled. Thus, Flamengo, which had four matches postponed due to the Pan American Games, will be able to use its newly signed players, including Ibson, Roger, Maxi Biancucci, and Fábio Luciano, in these matches. Their opponents will be Fluminense, Juventude, Cruzeiro, and Vasco.
Vasco's board is still against the CBF's decision
Vasco, which will also be able to field its reinforcements (Andrade, Enílton, Leandro Bonfim, Luizão, and Xavier) in the derby against Flamengo, scheduled for October 16th, opposes the CBF's decision. The club claims that such a measure creates an imbalance in the championship, as the red-and-black team will be able to field players for the postponed games that it did not have available on the dates established in the original schedule. Vasco's legal department even promises to file a complaint with the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD).
Sports Journal
Biancucchi joins Fla-Flu
After a strong start against Náutico, the Argentine could start his first derby
Sergio Mello and Thiago Bokel
Messi's cousin Maxi Bianchucci could start in the match against rivals Fluminense on Thursday night at the Maracanã
After arriving at Gávea, with the main attribute of being a cousin of Barcelona and Argentina striker Lionel Messi, it only took half an hour of play and a strong performance for Maxi Biancucchi to be close to earning a starting spot for Flamengo. The news that Renato Augusto felt pain in his left thigh and is doubtful reinforces this possibility. He will be evaluated by the medical department today.
The Argentine, who began training in June but only took the field this month, adapted quickly to Flamengo, even putting in strong performances. After Maxi's introduction last Saturday, the Flamengo team improved their performance, securing a victory. The performance pleased coach Joel Santana, who is already hinting at the possibility of starting him in the derby against Fluminense next Thursday.
"I'll review the video of the match against Náutico to make further assessments. I might start him, but I have to make that decision with a cool head. But the fact is, Maxi already deserves a starting spot, and I'll analyze it carefully and perhaps start him," Joel revealed.
Showing off his good old style of catchphrases, the coach said that triumphs are equivalent to titles and warned that if Flamengo doesn't repeat the good performance it had against Náutico, the chances of beating the Rio de Janeiro team will be reduced.
"Here, every victory feels like a title. Now we have to maintain our work pace, paying attention to our diet and schedules, so we can overcome this situation, which has nothing to do with Flamengo's history in Brazil and worldwide. The important thing now is to keep playing well. After all, against Fluminense, if we don't play well, we won't be able to beat them," Joel assessed.
After a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Náutico, coach Joel Santana stated that Flamengo must continue its momentum. The coach took the opportunity to make a special request for Flamengo fans to turn out in large numbers against Fluminense in order to win again. "We need to keep up this commitment. I ask for the fans' support," said Joel.
Maxi Biancucchi's turn
Joel Santana says that Biancucchi, an admirer of axé and funk, will play in Thursday's Fla-Flu match
Nathan de Lima and Sérgio Mello
Biancucchi, without a vest, competes for the ball with Thiago Salles. Egídio arrives late to the play.
After yesterday's training session at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, coach Joel Santana confirmed the inclusion of Argentine forward Biancucchi in place of Renato Augusto, who was ruled out by Flamengo's medical department. Besides being a cousin of Lionel Messi, of Barcelona and the Argentine national team, the Argentine showed that his adaptation to Brazilian football is proceeding at a rapid pace. Biancucchi surprised everyone by revealing that he likes funk, axé singer Ivete Sangalo, and, like his compatriot Carlitos Tevez, cumbia—a typical Colombian music currently very popular in his country. "I've been listening to funk since I lived in Argentina and then in Paraguay. I'm very eclectic. I listen to MC Marcinho's songs, cumbia, and Ivete Sangalo's songs. By the way, what's Ivete's musical genre?" asked Maxi, drawing laughter.
Confirmed as a starter, the Argentine revealed that playing in a derby against Fluminense is a source of excitement because he could win over the Flamengo fans. "It's important to play in a derby like this, because everyone will be watching the match. I'm very happy to be able to wear the Flamengo jersey; it's a great honor, and I hope to win the affection of the fans," he stated.
Joel Santana believes that with Biancucchi's arrival, the team will gain pace down the flanks. "After Maxi came on, our team improved, as we were able to engage the opponent on the flanks. He's a fast player and will help us a lot," he assessed.
Renato Augusto, who suffered a twinge in his left thigh, is out of Thursday's game. An MRI revealed a grade-one sprain. "Renato Augusto suffered a sprain and won't play. He will be available to the coach against Palmeiras," explained doctor Walter Martins.
Decisive week for the red-blacks
Flamengo is in a difficult position in the Brazilian Championship. In 19th place, with 15 points from 15 matches, the red-and-blacks face a decisive week, which began yesterday at Granja Comary in Teresópolis and ends Sunday against Palmeiras. This Thursday, there's also the Flamengo-Flu match at Maracanã.
Joel Santana commented on the situation, acknowledging the importance of Flamengo achieving a strong winning streak to finally gain momentum and escape the relegation zone. According to him, the ideal situation is for the team to display the same style and determination it demonstrated in the second half of the match against Náutico.
"We're starting a very difficult week, with a tough derby against Fluminense on Thursday and a very difficult match against Palmeiras on Sunday. We're working to ensure the team plays at the same level they did in the second half of the match against Náutico, especially on the wings," said the coach.
Joel Santana took advantage of yesterday's training session in Teresópolis to practice wing plays. According to the coach, right-back Leonardo Moura needs to return to playing more wide and stop crowding the midfield.
"Léo Moura scored six goals in nine matches during my time there in 2005. I've already told him that he needs to avoid narrowing the midfield and do what he knows how to do," said Joel Santana, taking advantage of the end of yesterday's training session to work on his backline plays.
Rômulo is the highlight of the red-black collective
Coach Joel Santana (R) interrupts the training session at Granja Comary to give instructions to midfielder Rômulo, one of the standout players in training.
"Flamengo makes stars at home." The phrase is gaining traction, and another product of the youth academy, defensive midfielder Rômulo, is gaining the trust of coach Joel Santana. And to top it all off, in yesterday's training session at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, the starting players defeated the reserves 2-0. Rômulo was one of the standout performers, alongside Roger, who scored both goals.
During training, the player wowed the small crowd at Granja with his strong runs through midfield and beautiful passes. Having practically adapted to the group, the player explained the importance of this period of concentration. "It's good for us players to stay focused. We'll work together to try to beat Fluminense on Thursday and turn things around," stated Rômulo.
The Fla-Flu derby, Brazil's most captivating, moves millions of hearts across the country. For Rômulo, just 20 years old, there's a special motivation, as this will be his first derby as a professional. With the same personality he displayed during the match against Náutico and in interviews, the young player commented on the excitement of playing for the club.
"It's great to play for Flamengo, and even better to play in a derby with the fans in attendance. It's different from when I was a junior. The Fla-Flu team has history, and now I can be a part of it. Wearing the Flamengo jersey is always a source of pride," said the player.
Maracanãzinho belongs to Mengão
The club chooses the traditional and renovated gymnasium as its home in the National Basketball Championship
Eduardo Vieira
“Flamengo’s home will be Maracanãzinho.” Flamengo’s basketball director, Arnaldo Szpirro, confirmed the interest in hosting matches valid for the Men’s National Championship at the traditional gymnasium.
"I had a meeting in São Paulo and it was decided that the Nacional will start on January 6th. It won't be the same chaos as the last one, and games will only be on Fridays and Sundays. We intend to use Maracanãzinho, which will be Flamengo's home ground. I'm already talking to politicians who are passionate about basketball and who are in favor of this idea," said the director, who delivered more good news for Flamengo fans.
"Before going to Mexico, Olivinha received an offer from Flamengo. I don't think he made a good choice. His contract is for six months, and the doors are definitely open for his return in February," said Szpirro.
The current squad, according to the director, has all the conditions to compete for a third State Championship title and an unprecedented National title. "I'm very pleased with the team that's been assembled. Several players could become club idols. Not just Duda, who already has a strong connection with the fans. Cuban Ariel is one I think could win over the fans. He's talented and has a lot of drive."
Circuits
To enter the National Championship with everything, in addition to the State Championship, Flamengo will have to participate in a four-stage circuit, alongside Minas Tênis (MG), Saldanha da Gama (ES) and Brasília (DF).
"There are four strong teams that have shown interest in participating in this tour. Each will host a stage, and these are important matches to give Flamengo a game rhythm," explained the director, who shared some updates about the State Championship:
"Comary confirmed that he will assemble a team and is even registered with the National Team. But it won't be as strong as the original plan. Vasco will come with a youth team, while Fluminense, unfortunately, won't have Alberto Bial. From what I heard in São Paulo, Bial will remain at Joinville."
Diego travels confidently to the World Cup
"I'm traveling to Germany in pursuit of my biggest dream: a spot at the Beijing Olympics." These were the words of Diego Hypolito (pictured) as the Brazilian men's artistic gymnastics delegation departed yesterday for the German city of Stuttgart, where the Pre-Olympic World Championships will be held from September 1st to 9th. A good result will guarantee a spot at the Beijing Olympics.
Ten days before the competition that will be worth a spot in the Beijing Olympic Games - Diego and the team led by coach Renato Araújo and gymnasts Mosiah Rodrigues, Danilo Nogueira, Victor Rosa, Luiz Augusto dos Anjos, Caio Costa and Artur Zanetti - will play a friendly match in Switzerland.
In addition to the home team, South Korea and Puerto Rico will participate in this event.
"This friendly will serve as a good test for the World Championships. In Germany, I'll compete on all six apparatuses, and my goal is to help the team earn points and achieve an unprecedented result, which would be to take at least two gymnasts to Beijing. On the apparatus, I'll fight for a spot in the vault final and try to fight for gold on the floor," said Diego, who was the 2005 World Floor Champion in Australia.
Daniele Hypolito also traveled yesterday with the women's team, but this time to England, where a friendly against Great Britain will be played later this month. From there, the team will head straight to Stuttgart.
"The World Pre-Olympic Championships are a very strong and balanced competition. Brazil will enter this competition to secure a team spot in Beijing and fight for spots in the apparatus finals," said Daniele, a bronze medalist on the balance beam at the Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro last month.
Another Brazilian medal hopeful is Victor Rosa, one of the standout performers at the Pan American Games. He has fully recovered from a right ankle injury that sidelined him.
His goal is to secure a Brazilian spot at the Beijing Olympics, which would be a major achievement for Brazilian gymnastics. Victor Roso has been improving.
O Dia
Maxi Biancucchi will start against Fluminense
Striker takes the place of Renato Augusto, who was banned
Teresópolis - Flamengo traveled to the mountains to concentrate on the match against Fluminense. And for the derby, coach Joel Santana confirmed this Monday in Teresópolis that Argentine Maxi Biancucchi will start against Fluminense. Leonardo will be Maxi's strike partner. The cousin of Barcelona star Messi will replace Renato Augusto, who was ruled out due to a muscle injury.
The player, in an interview with Rádio Tupi, stated that he can't wait to score his first goal for the red-and-black team. However, he says that anxiety won't hinder his performance. Regarding a possible special celebration, he emphasizes that he doesn't have anything planned yet.
"Before thinking about celebrating a goal, you have to do it. Let's take it easy. If I manage to score against Fluminense, I'll celebrate in a simple way," said the short Flamengo player.
FLA: Maxi rehearses the dance
If he scores a goal in Thursday's classic, the Argentine will celebrate in funk style
Rio - A strained right thigh will keep Renato Augusto out of Thursday's Fla-Flu match. Coach Joel Santana quickly found an ideal replacement: Argentine Maxi Biancucci took the spot in yesterday's tactical training session at the Granja Comary training ground.
Having yet to score a goal for Flamengo, Maxi, who has already played in three matches, is rehearsing a celebration for when he finally finds the net. He ruled out a Tevez-style cumbia celebration, preferring to pay homage to Rio de Janeiro.
"People here don't like cumbia. I like funk," said the striker, captivated by the players' favorite rhythm, in the locker room after training.
Whether or not he scores his first goal, Maxi, Messi's cousin, knows he will forever remember Thursday's Fla-Flu match.
"The Flamengo-Flu match is very well-known in Argentina. When a player wears a Flamengo jersey, he has to be motivated, but the derby always has an added flavor," the Argentine highlighted, without hiding his excitement for the derby.
FABIO LUCIANO
Coach Joel Santana kept Leonardo in the other attacking spot. And Renato Augusto didn't even follow the team to Teresópolis. After being examined by the medical department, he remained in Gávea, undergoing treatment.
While the fans' favorite is ruled out, defender Fábio Luciano, on the other hand, has recovered from the calf injury that forced him off the field in Saturday's victory over Náutico. He's confirmed for the Fla-Flu match, alongside Ronaldo Angelim.
Coach Joel Santana took advantage of yesterday afternoon at Granja to try to improve the positioning of the team's defense.
Joel's trial brings forward the group's return
Flamengo's preparations for Thursday's derby at Maracanã will be finalized in Gávea, not Granja Comary. The delegation will return to Rio tomorrow after breakfast, not in the evening as planned.
Therefore, the players will still train tomorrow afternoon in Gávea. The reason for the change is Joel's trial, tomorrow at 18 p.m.
The coach will be tried by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) for his instructions on the sidelines at Vila Belmiro during the match against Santos. During the match, Joel Santana shouted that his players should stop opponents with fouls.
Joel was charged under Article 279 (publicly inciting the commission of an offense). He faces a one- to two-year suspension.
Renato Augusto will not face Fluminense
Rio - Supporter Renato Augusto is out of this Thursday's match at Maracanã. The information was confirmed by Rádio Brasil after an interview with Walter Martins, from the club's medical department. Renato Augusto left the field against Náutico last Saturday with a grade 1 strain in his right hamstring.
On the other hand, defender Fábio Luciano, forwards Obina and Souza, suspended, are included in the group that will travel to Teresópolis, Flamengo's training ground.
Joel Santana will be tried by the STJD this Wednesday
Teresópolis - This coming Wednesday, coach Joel Santana will be tried by the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) for ordering his players to attack Santos players at Vila Belmiro during their 3-0 defeat. The coach is accused of inciting violence and, if convicted, could face a one- to two-year suspension from football. Joel was charged with violating Article 279 of the CBJD (publicly inciting the commission of an offense).
For this reason, the Flamengo delegation will return to Rio de Janeiro this Wednesday, one day before the classic against Fluminense, at Maracanã.
Sports Gazette
Biancucchi trains among the starters\ Gazeta Press\
Teresópolis (RJ) - In his first training session of the week, coach Joel Santana indicated his intention to include Argentine midfielder Maximiliano Biancucchi in Flamengo's starting lineup for Thursday's derby against Fluminense at the Maracanã. On Monday, the player was tested with the first team in a training session led by the coach at Granja Comary. Messi's cousin, Biancucchi, has only been at Flamengo for a short time, says he's happy with the atmosphere he's found at the Rio de Janeiro club. "I was very well received at Flamengo and in Rio. I'm very happy here at the club and in the city. I just need to improve my Portuguese. I already understand almost everything and speak a few words, but I'm still embarrassed to say them wrong," commented the Argentine.
Flamengo tries to suspend the contract to count on Souza
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo is hoping to have striker Souza available for the derby against Fluminense next Wednesday, in a postponed first-round match of the Brazilian Championship. The player was suspended for five games for his sending-off against Grêmio on July 22, and only served three, but the club will seek a stay of execution. The club's argument is based on the fact that the Prosecutor's Office of the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) filed an appeal requesting a new trial for the player, believing the sentence was too low. Therefore, Flamengo is waiting for the stay of execution until the new trial is held.
"Of course, there is still hope. The Superior Court of Justice (STJD) has not yet received the appeal and, therefore, has not been able to comment on the suspension of the sentence. As soon as the suspension of the sentence is granted, the sentence will be suspended and he can play," explained lawyer Michel Assef Filho in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Before the classic, Joel faces STJD\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Despite winning the last round and having played games less than its main rivals, Flamengo's situation is far from comfortable. With 15 points from 15 matches, the Rubro-Negro still has more than a 45% chance of being relegated, according to the website 'chance de gol'. Away from the field, before the derby against Fluminense, coach Joel Santana will have to face the courts on Wednesday. After being caught by television cameras asking his players to "beat them up" if their opponents "clowned around" in the match against Santos, the coach risks being suspended for up to two years in the trial to be held by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). Joel will leave Teresópolis to closely follow his trial in Rio de Janeiro.
"We're going to try for an acquittal. The defense can't think of any other option. But of course, if the sentence isn't favorable to Joel and Flamengo, we'll appeal," Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, commented in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Before Joel Santana's trial, Flamengo's legal department has another concern. The goal is to secure a stay of execution for striker Souza, who is still serving a suspension for his red card against Grêmio on July 22nd. The club has already filed an appeal with the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) and is awaiting a response before the derby against Fluminense.
Renato Augusto will not play the Fla-Flu\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After a crucial victory over Náutico last weekend, Flamengo's squad returned to Teresópolis on Monday to prepare for Thursday's derby against Fluminense at the Maracanã. Midfielder Renato Augusto will be missing from the match, ruled out by the medical department. "He underwent an imaging test this morning (Monday) and confirmed Dr. Runco's (José Luiz Runco) initial prediction. He will miss Thursday's game and will receive full treatment here in Rio de Janeiro," said doctor Walter Martins.
Renato Augusto suffered a left thigh injury in the match against Náutico, forcing him to leave the field in the second half. According to Walter Martins, it's still too early to know whether the midfielder will be fit to face Palmeiras next Sunday at Parque Antarctica. For Thursday's match, Renato is expected to make way for Argentine Maximiliano Biancucchi. Another option for Joel Santana is young Paulo Sérgio, who is available after serving a suspension.
While coach Joel Santana will be without Renato Augusto for the Fla-Flu match, he received some good news this Monday. Defender Fábio Luciano, who complained of muscle pain last weekend, performed well and shouldn't be a problem for the derby, where he will once again partner Ronaldo Angelim.
The Fla-Flu season will have a special flavor for midfielder Roger. Raised at Fluminense, where he had two spells, the player will face the former club for the first time since arriving at Gávea about a month ago.
If there are no major surprises until the game, Flamengo should enter the field with the following formation: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Rômulo, Ibson and Roger; Maximiliano Biancucchi (Paulo Sérgio) and Leonardo.
PeléNet
Maxi trains with the starters and should earn a spot in Fla against Flu
Argentine Maxi Biancucchi is expected to start for Flamengo for the first time in the derby against Fluminense next Thursday at Maracanã in the Brazilian Championship. The attacking midfielder played for the first team in Monday's training session at Granja Comary in Teresópolis.
Barcelona player's cousin, Maxi Biancucchi, could start in the classic
After the activity, coach Joel Santana practically confirmed the presence of the reinforcement, cousin of Argentine star Lionel Messi, who has already played three matches for Flamengo, but always coming on in the second half.
"Maxi came into the game [against Náutico] very well and should be Renato Augusto's replacement," Joel Santana told Rádio Globo.
Last Saturday, against Náutico at Maracanã, the Argentine had already replaced his injured teammate in the second half and came on well. With speed and a lot of momentum, Maxi improved Flamengo's performance by dropping down the flanks, and the team fought back to turn the game around.
Another indication that Joel Santana will indeed field the Argentine is the coach's clear demand for more play down the flanks. "With him [Maxi], we gained more pace in attack. We weren't getting into the box much, and after he came on, we started to get the opposition involved, especially down the flank, which is what we need," he analyzed.
The team that trained this Monday and should take to the field on Thursday was lined up with Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Rômulo, Cristian, Ibson and Roger; Maxi and Leonardo.
BalloonSport
Reinforcements can play in postponed games\ CBF rejects Eurico Miranda's thesis, who wanted to prevent Flamengo reinforcements from playing some matches\
Roger and Íbson, two of Flamengo's new signings, are cleared to play.
According to CBF technical director Virgílio Elísio, all teams will be able to play in the postponed Brazilian Championship matches with their new signings. Therefore, Vasco president Eurico Miranda's attempt to bar Flamengo's new players (Ibson, Maxi Biancucchi, and Roger) from the October 16 derby is unlikely to succeed.
Therefore, Clube da Colina will also be able to count on all of its reinforcements, namely Enílton, Andrade, Abuda, Xavier, Luizão, and Leandro Bonfim. Of the recent signings, only defensive midfielder Xavier and midfielder Leandro Bonfim have not yet been formalized.
This Monday, defender Luizão had his name published in the CBF's Daily Information Bulletin (BID).
Fla anticipates return to Rio
The measure was taken by the board because of the trial of coach Joel Santana
The Flamengo delegation will return a day earlier than scheduled from their training camp at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, a mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro. The group would remain at the Brazilian national team's training center until next Wednesday. However, due to coach Joel Santana's decision, the squad will return to the Marvelous City on Tuesday night.
The coach will be tried by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) on Wednesday at 18 p.m. for his instructions on the sidelines during the match against Santos at Vila Belmiro. On that occasion, the red-and-black manager asked his players to "get" Santos' players.
Joel Santana was charged under Article 279 (publicly inciting an offense). The coach faces a suspension of one to two years.
Maxi and Leonardo form Fla's attack
Joel leads tactical training and confirms the team for Thursday's Fla-Flu match
GLOBOESPORTE.COM In Teresópolis
Maxi Biancucchi will get a chance in Flamengo's starting lineup
Coach Joel Santana led a tactical training session this Monday at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, a mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro. The coach fielded Leonardo in the red-and-black attack, with striker Maxi Biancucchi replacing Renato Augusto, who was ruled out by the medical department due to a strain in the back of his left thigh.
Additionally, the Flamengo coach relied on Fábio Luciano, who left last Saturday's match against Náutico with muscle fatigue. Flamengo's defense was formed by former Corinthians player and Ronaldo Angelim.
In addition to tactics, Joel Santana also worked on defensive positioning, especially during set pieces. The coach doesn't want the team to repeat the mistakes of recent matches, when they conceded goals due to errors by their defensive duo. During the session, the coach recalled the play that led to Atlético-PR's first goal.
Roger proves he's been a Fla fan since he was a kid
The player does not argue with his former club, but says that today he defends the red-black team
Marcio Iannacca
Roger played for Fla in the youth teams and, today, is one of the team's stars.
Midfielder Roger has long been a Flamengo fan. A product of Fluminense, the club's opponent in Thursday's derby at Maracanã, he has fond memories of his time at Gávea, still in the youth ranks. The former Flamengo player even won titles while defending the red and black jersey.
During his presentation at Gávea, Roger didn't mince his words when talking about Flamengo.
- Every club has a shirt, but only Flamengo's is sacred - the midfielder repeated.
At Flamengo, Roger has shown himself to be at ease with members of the coaching staff and teammates. In his first days at Flamengo's headquarters, he would arrive early for training and spend hours chatting with Flamengo's trainers and masseurs.
On the field for Thursday's derby, Roger expects boos from Fluminense fans. However, he says such demonstrations don't affect his play when the ball is in play.
"The boos will be inevitable, but they don't affect me at all. When the ball starts rolling, I'll give my best for Flamengo," says the midfielder.
Aware of the rivalry and importance of Fla-Flu, Roger speaks of the greatness of both clubs, but prefers to focus only on the current situation of Rubro-Negro, which is still in the relegation zone of the Brazilian Championship.
"These are two great Brazilian football teams. They're two teams with a long tradition in a world-renowned classic. There's no favorite. On Thursday, the three colors will be on one side, and the red-and-black team will have to come out on top," says the player.
Renato Augusto is out of Fla-Flu
Midfielder ruled out by the medical department due to a left thigh injury
Marcio Iannacca
Renato Augusto will miss Flamengo's derby on Thursday against Flu
Midfielder Renato Augusto is out of Thursday's derby against Fluminense at Maracanã Stadium. Suffering from a hamstring injury in his left thigh, the player was ruled out by Flamengo's medical department. He is expected to return to the team for Sunday's match against Palmeiras at Palestra Itália in São Paulo.
As soon as he left the field in the 2-1 victory over Náutico, Renato Augusto knew the injury would rule him out of the derby. The player left in tears before heading to the locker room for treatment.
Renato Augusto remained in Rio de Janeiro undergoing treatment and will be re-evaluated on Friday. Flamengo doctors revealed that the midfielder suffered a grade-one strain.
Throw
Fla has the longest drought in classics since 1990
The team will have the chance to finish with the mark against Flu, on Thursday
Joel will try for a second victory in charge of Fla (Credit: Paulo Sérgio)
Rodrigo Mandarini
Flamengo's next match in the Brazilian Championship will be against Fluminense. The Rubro-Negro's eighth derby of the year will be another opportunity to end an uncomfortable streak: no wins in regional derbies this season.
Not since 1990, when Flamengo won only one match against one of its three major rivals on September 16th—a 1-0 victory over Vasco da Gama—had the team gone so long without celebrating a victory in a Rio derby. That year, Flamengo only ended their drought on their seventh attempt. Previously, the team had recorded two losses and four draws against Botafogo, Fluminense, and Vasco da Gama.
This season, Flamengo has five draws (four against Botafogo) and two defeats, one of which was in the only match against Fluminense, still in the State Championship.
If Flamengo doesn't leave Maracanã next Thursday with all three points, their next chance to end their winless streak in state derbies will be on August 29th against Botafogo. If Flamengo doesn't win then, the derby against Vasco will be on the same day of the year the team broke their streak in 1990: September 16th.
Fla still waiting for Souza for the classic
The club is awaiting a decision from the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) to determine whether the striker will be available for the derby against Fluminense.
Edgard Maciel de Sá
After testing the attacking duo of Maxi Biancucchi and Leonardo, Flamengo coach Joel Santana brought on striker Souza in place of the Argentine in the second half of the training session, showing that he still has hopes of counting on the player for next Thursday's classic against Fluminense at Maracanã.
Souza started training well and provided an assist for Roger to score his second goal in the starters' 2-0 victory over the reserves. For Michel Assef Filho, Rubro-Negro's lawyer, the club still has time.
"We filed the suspension request last Thursday and haven't received a response yet. But there's still time. If we get a response by the day of the match, he'll be fit to play," he explained.
The person who can or cannot release Souza for the game is Rubens Aprobatto, president of the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). He, however, said he hasn't received anything yet.
"I've heard that the request has reached the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), but they haven't forwarded it to me yet. When I receive it, I'll analyze it and decide whether to grant the stay of execution," he explained.
Maxi in place of Renato Augusto on the collective
Argentine striker expected to start against Fluminense
LANCEPRESS!
In Teresópolis, where Flamengo is preparing to face Fluminense next Thursday, coach Joel Santana is already planning his lineup for the derby. Without Renato Augusto, who is sidelined with a grade 1 strain in his right hamstring, the coach is expected to field Argentine Maxi Biancucchi to form a frontcourt pairing with Leonardo.
Apart from this change, the team that performed the collective at Granja Comary, on Monday afternoon, was the same one that defeated Náutico.
In total, the club brought 27 players to the mountain town. Even Obina, who was sidelined to regain his ideal weight, and Souza, who was suspended, traveled with the group. The biggest surprise of the training session was that young striker Paulo Sérgio wasn't even among the reserves.
Despite the victory, Joel wants more work
The team showed progress against Náutico, but still needs to improve.
Rodrigo Benchimol
Father's Day was a quiet day for everyone at Flamengo thanks to the victory over Náutico. Last Sunday's day off, however, was the only one in the middle of the marathon to escape the relegation zone. This Monday, the team traveled to Teresópolis, where they will prepare for the derby against Fluminense next Thursday at Maracanã, as well as review what went right and wrong in the club's third victory in the Brazilian Championship.
Joel Santana's first three points were hard-earned. Unheard of before, the players displayed a spirited display and, driven by the fans, managed to turn the game around. This was the first time this had happened in the competition, as Flamengo had taken the lead in the previous victories (Goiás and América-RN).
The midfielder managed to orchestrate attacking plays. Roger's pass—who had been largely absent from the field until then—for Leonardo Moura's goal was the touch of quality that had been missing. In fact, the midfielder also scored the comeback goal against Corinthians.
However, against Náutico, the attack still left something to be desired. Both goals were scored by defenders.
This is, in fact, a critical issue for Flamengo, whose top scorers in the Brazilian league have only two goals (Juan, Leonardo, Léo Medeiros, Leo Moura, Angelim and Renato).
A defense that still needs adjustments, protection, and synergy, the quality of the defense has improved with the arrival of Fábio Luciano. Even so, it still has flaws, largely due to the full-backs' runs and the work of the defensive midfielders.
– You can't think that because we won that everything is wonderful – said Leonardo Moura.
After the game, Joel Santana said he will review the game against Náutico with the necessary calmness to make new decisions – which may include the entry of striker Maxi Bianccuchi – for the Fla-Flu.
"We're not out of the relegation zone yet. We're continuing our work and concentration regime."
Rodrigo Arroz compares Ney to Joel
Defender Rodrigo Arroz compared the style of former Flamengo coach Ney Franco to that of current coach Joel Santana. For the player, who performed well in the 2-1 victory over Náutico, replacing Fábio Luciano, Ney and Joel differ in their formation choices and temperament. Rodrigo also emphasized the importance of always being willing to play and help the Rubro-Negro.
radio l! - I'm a Flamengo employee, I have to always be prepared. I've always been ready since I turned professional two years ago. I hope that with Joel I'll have more opportunities to play and help my teammates - he says. (Click and listen)
Getúlio Vargas should be loaned to Genk
Flamengo goalkeeper expected to sign one-year deal with Belgian club
Getúlio Vargas is packing his bags to go to Belgium (Credit: Cleber Mendes)
Rafael Ximenes
Released from Fortaleza, goalkeeper Getúlio Vargas was in Gávea this Monday morning, meeting with some friends, and is expected to finalize his one-year loan move to Genk in Belgium. According to the player, his agent should resolve the situation this Monday afternoon, but he revealed that if the deal doesn't go through, he could play for another club in Brazil.
"Eduardo has practically already agreed on everything. If the negotiations don't go through, I can go to Paraná."
Having emerged in the club's youth ranks, Getúlio finds it difficult to stay due to competition for a place in the team and also explained the reason for his departure from Fortaleza.
"It's going to be difficult for me to play at Flamengo; Bruno and Diego are in good form. I'm leaving to get opportunities to play. I left Fortaleza because the president wanted me to. Zetti (the coach), on the other hand, wanted me to stay on the first team. But my time there was good; I was the best goalkeeper in the Campeonato Cearense and had a string of 40 games as a starter," he said.