The Globe
'Make yourself at home'
Flamengo players open the doors to Diego Tardelli upon his arrival in Rio
: DIEGO TARDELLI greets Kléberson (left) and Ibson upon his arrival at Flamengo's training camp last night
OBINA RECEIVES the new red-black striker with a hug
LEONARDO MOURA shakes hands with his friend Diego Tardelli
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
A warm welcome at Flamengo's training camp. If Diego Tardelli was worried about how he would be accepted at Gávea, his first impression was encouraging. Early last night, the striker, who drove from São Paulo, arrived at the hotel where Flamengo is staying during the remainder of the preseason. The player's arrival coincided with the end of dinner for part of the squad. One by one, everyone embraced the striker.
As he left his car, Tardelli was impressed by the beautiful sunset at Barra da Tijuca Beach. Upon entering the hotel, he immediately greeted Leonardo Moura, his close friend.
- Welcome and make yourself at home - said the right-back.
Others who welcomed Tardelli with special affection were defenders Rodrigo and Fábio Luciano, as well as midfielders Ibson and Kléberson. Striker Obina, one of those involved in the controversy between Tardelli and Souza, gave the new signing a big hug, putting the new Flamengo player at ease. When Tardelli arrived, Souza was still eating his meal. The two met and greeted each other minutes later in the hotel restaurant.
Ticket sales start today
Today, the former São Paulo player will be presented to the press and will wear the Flamengo shirt, during the launch ceremony of FlaTV, the club's official online channel.
Yesterday afternoon, in Gávea, coach Joel Santana led a tactical training session. He maintained the starting lineup he had been training in Teresópolis, with the midfield consisting of Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró. Renato Augusto and Souza formed the attacking duo. During the training session, defensive midfielder Jaílton was heckled by a fan. Always restrained, he didn't respond. Souza, however, defended him, telling the fan to "shut up."
Despite the pressure, the starters defeated the reserves 3-1 collectively, with goals from Souza, Toró, and Renato Augusto. Joel Santana expressed some concern about the positive expectations surrounding Flamengo's 2008 season. The fact that the fans expected an easy game in the opening match against Boavista prompted the coach to issue a warning.
"We need to be better than we were in 2007. A debut is always a debut. I always use Italy as an example, which started the World Cup with a draw. They went on to win. It certainly won't be an easy game," Joel warned.
Flamengo's board, however, is preparing to welcome a large number of fans to Maracanã on Sunday. Advance sales of the 68.980 tickets available for the game begin today. Sales will run from 11 a.m. to 17 p.m. at Gávea, Caio Martins, RioSampa, General Severiano, Laranjeiras, Engenhão, and Maracanã ticket office 8. The club expects approximately 45 people.
Of the new signings, midfielder Jônatas is causing some concern among the board regarding his legal status to face Boavista. The club has submitted his contract to the CBF. However, the Spanish Federation still needs to send the player's transfer document.
Yesterday, Flamengo executives met with directors from Petrobras and BR Distribuidora to negotiate a new sponsorship contract with the state-owned company. Flamengo presented its proposal for renewal, which includes increasing the annual quota to approximately R$21 million (approximately R$2008 million for 15,5). Flamengo also wants the state-owned company to develop more joint marketing initiatives. Initially, Petrobras claimed that the previous contract established an annual adjustment rate and that the company could not renew the sponsorship above this amount. Flamengo stated that it has been receiving proposals and that, although it intends to maintain the 24-year partnership, it would have no problem switching partners if more advantageous proposals materialize.
CONTRIBUTED BY Guto Seabra, from Extra
Sports Journal
Double dose presentation
Today promises to be a day of celebration for Flamengo. However, this time, the spotlight won't be on Gávea, where the club's headquarters are located, but rather on Barra, where the Windsor Hotel is located. There, the Flamengo board will launch Fla-TV, the Flamengo online channel, created in partnership with DB4, which will cover all the team's activities, including behind-the-scenes footage. The monthly fee will be R$12, a tribute to the jersey number immortalized last year in honor of the fans.
In addition to the launch of Fla-TV, the presentation of striker Diego Tardelli, signed last Tuesday from São Paulo, is also scheduled. The player sprained his ankle a few days ago, but believes he could make his Flamengo debut in two weeks.
Despite the injury, doctor José Luiz Runco ruled out the possibility of the striker failing the medical exams, which he completed part of yesterday and will complete this morning.
"I got the information from the São Paulo doctors and Diego has nothing serious. Tomorrow (today) the player will undergo routine exams and will be presented shortly thereafter," said doctor José Luiz Runco.
To celebrate the launch of Fla-TV and Tardelli's introduction, the Flamengo board will host a luncheon for the coaching staff, the professional team, and the press. In addition to participating in the Formula Superliga, Flamengo's television program is another step toward establishing itself among the world's biggest clubs in the media.
Tickets go on sale now
Even with the controversy caused by the comment made by the Secretary of Sports and Leisure and president of Suderj, Eduardo Paes, threatening to suspend the benefit agreement that the entity signed with the Fla-Flu duo, if the ticket prices were not reduced, the red-black press office announced yesterday that tickets for the match on Sunday, at 16 pm, against Boavista, will begin to be sold today, and with the same price previously announced.
The agreement between the two clubs and Suderj (Rio Grande do Norte State Sports Federation) stipulated that they would use the stadium for at least 70% of their home games. This would avoid paying the hefty fee, which ranges from R$30 to R$80, that other clubs have agreed to pay to use the Maracanã.
One of Flamengo's standout players this pre-season, supporter Toró (photo) did not show sympathy for the difficulty that Flamengo fans will face in following the team in the Carioca.
"Our fans are different, so not even the high price will keep them away from the stadium," the player declared.
Tickets will be sold today, from 11 a.m. to 17 p.m., at the following locations: Gávea, Laranjeiras, and General Severiano stadiums, Caio Martins stadium (Niterói), Maracanã ticket office 8, Engenhão north ticket office, and RioSampa (Nova Iguaçu). White stands cost R$40, green and yellow stands R$30, lower seats R$20, and special seats R$120, all with half-price tickets.
What scheme do I go with?
Joel tests two formations and is between Obina and Cristian to define the Fla team for the debut
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Obina, the darling, could be coach Joel Santana's surprise for his debut in the Carioca
When Joel Santana took over Flamengo midway through last year's Brazilian Championship, he found a team in tatters, mired in crisis and in the relegation zone. But little by little, the coach restructured the team and achieved one of the greatest comebacks in the competition's history. Perhaps for this reason, the Flamengo coach prefers to remain calm when making any changes to the starting lineup that finished last season.
In yesterday's training session at Gávea, Joel kept the same team as last year, but in the second part of training he tested Obina and the team improved.
The training session started strongly, with both teams creating numerous opportunities. The midfield of Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró performed well, but the attack, consisting of Renato Augusto and Souza, produced little, despite a strong performance by the number 9. The first half of the session ended 1-1, with goals from Souza for the starters and Maxi for the substitutes.
In the second half, Joel took off defensive midfielder Cristian and replaced him with Obina. The team's performance improved, Renato Augusto stepped up his game, and the team scored twice more. The first through Toró and the second through Renato Augusto.
"I really enjoyed both parts of the training session. Both formations went well. Everyone saw the excellent collective performance we put on. Our players are not yet in ideal physical shape, but by Friday or Saturday we will have already decided on the team for the debut," said Joel Santana, who has not yet confirmed the team that will face Boavista on Sunday at 16 pm at Maracanã.
The coach may end up having a major headache when selecting the team, as the contracts of goalkeeper Bruno and defensive midfielder Jônatas are not yet finalized, but Flamengo's director of football, Eduardo Manhães, believes both will be fit to play. According to the director, the club has already taken all necessary measures.
"In principle, there's no risk of them being left out. All the documents that needed to arrive from abroad have already arrived. What's missing now is the bureaucracy of the entities," said Manhães.
Fla wants to get revenge on its executioner Internacional
The mood for today's match against Internacional, at 16 p.m. in Guarulhos, in the round of 20 of the São Paulo Junior Football Cup, is one of revenge. Stung by the Gauchos' victory in the last Brazilian Under-2 Championship, coach Rogério Lourenço's team has vowed to go all out to avenge the 0-XNUMX defeat suffered by the Colorados.
One of Flamengo's biggest standouts in the competition, midfielder Erick Flores has been wowing everyone with his speed and beautiful passes. The player warned that he won't lack for grit, and that the recent loss to the opponent is an added motivation for the entire team.
"We would normally go in with a lot of energy, but as it's against Inter, who beat us in the South, we'll go in with even more energy," said Erick Flores.
With the return of defender Fabrício and forward Paulo Sérgio, Rogério Lourenço will field a very attacking team with Marcelo, Michel, Lucas, Fabrício and Jobson; Lenon, Wellington Peca, Erick Flores and Guilherme Camacho; Paulo Sérgio and Pedro Beda.
O Dia
Flamengo: Eight athletes still do not have regularized documentation
Rio - The State Championship begins today for Flamengo. Joel Santana will find out whether or not he'll be able to count on starters Bruno and Cristian for the debut on Sunday against Boavista. Besides them, Marcinho, Léo Medeiros, Jônatas, Kléberson, Luizinho, and Gavilán don't yet have their documentation in order and wouldn't be able to play at the moment.
Joel, who is making final adjustments to the team, which has already been decided, doesn't hide his concern. "Some players are dependent on the documentation, and it will be bad if it doesn't work out. We're working on it, and it wouldn't be good to have to make changes to the team just before the debut. Especially since the first game of a competition is complicated," he commented.
Soccer executive director Eduardo Manhães will try to resolve everything today. "Obviously, our goal is to legalize everyone," he said, without guaranteeing whether he will succeed.
If Bruno is unfit to play, Diego will start. And in yesterday's training session, Joel replaced Cristian with Obina, pushing Renato Augusto back, and liked the formation he tested.
With the players' release, the coach now has the starting lineup: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Jailton, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró; and Renato Augusto and Souza. The starting lineup won 3-1, with goals from Souza, Toró, and Renato Augusto.
Maxi, among the reserves, pulled one back and performed well. With Obina in the starting lineup, the team also performed well. For Joel, the second lineup was better than the first. "I liked both, but with Obina, the team improved," said the coach, who fears another opponent on Sunday: the heat.
Today, Diego Tardelli will be introduced at a hotel in Barra, alongside the FlaTV launch party. It will be the first meeting between him and Souza since the argument.
Squabbles between team and fans
During yesterday's training session, there was some unrest between some fans and the players at the Gávea training ground. After a misplaced cross from Jaílton, one of the fans shouted, "Go back to Ipatinga, Gérson Magrão is waiting for you!" Renato Augusto, who also heard some jokes, retorted, "Get out of there, clown." Íbson also chimed in.
The club's security guards ordered the fans to stop their provocations, otherwise they would be removed from the venue.
Before that, when Souza scored the first goal of the match, another shout from the stands brought to light the barbs exchanged between the striker and the club's new signing: “Souza, that's the best answer you can give to Tardelli.”
Obina was the most celebrated, especially when he was named to the starting lineup. Even a shot that went wide of the goal earned applause. Fans urged Joel to start the striker.
Joel tests Obina in place of Cristian in Fla
Rio - For the second consecutive training session, coach Joel Santana tested forward Obina in place of midfielder Cristhian at Flamengo. The coach prefers to start with the midfielder, but the player is not yet registered with the CBF. The midfielder's federation rights were purchased from Atlético-PR.
Goalkeeper Bruno, bought from a group of businessmen, was also not registered with the CBF. Flamengo's squad is expected to be confirmed later this week.
"It's a tactical change and both parties are fine," said Joel Santana. Other athletes such as Jonatas, Gavillan, Rodrigo and Kléberson are also unable to play due to lack of documentation or due to punishment.
Defender Rodrigo and midfielder Marcinho are also out of shape. Flamengo's starting lineup for the Carioca is: Bruno, Léo Moura, Fábio Lucinao, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Jaílton, Toró, Cristian, and Íbson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
The starters won the collective match at Gávea by 3 to 1 and midfielder Toró was once again one of the highlights.
Flamengo also has its golden trio
Rio - Flamengo made good signings for the 2008 Carioca, Brazilian and Libertadores championships. But the players who have been standing out in training are a well-known red-and-black trio, who were somewhat distant on the pitch.
Joel Santana has been advising Renato Augusto and Toró to alternate supporting Souza. Toró was one of the standouts, at least in terms of stamina, in the red-and-black team's comeback in the 2007 Brasileirão. But he denies having a guaranteed spot and praises teamwork.
"Of course I'm not guaranteed. We're working hard, the team has quality players and we're doing our part for coach Joel to choose."
Regarding his contact with Renato Augusto and Souza, the midfielder said the chemistry is good, thank you very much. "We know each other well. I hope that for the debut on the 20th we can arrive and do what we've been doing in training."
Flamengo debuts against Boavista at 16 pm, at Maracanã.
Sports Gazette
Toró doesn't fear competition in Flamengo's midfield\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Midfield was the area where Flamengo sought the most reinforcements for this season. Even so, those who have been with the club since last year are not discouraged. This is the case with midfielder Toró, who once again stood out in collective training on Wednesday, scoring one of the goals in the starters' 3-1 victory. The others were scored by Souza and Renato Augusto. "I'm doing my job to be on the field from the start on Sunday. I try to do my job to always give Joel a headache when it comes to selecting the team," commented Toró.
During the training session, Toró tried to alternate with Renato Augusto, alternating who played further forward alongside striker Souza. "We already know each other well, Renato, Souza, and I, and we're very close. Now it's time to keep going and get a win on Sunday."
Once again, Joel Santana fielded the team with the base of the 2007 Brazilian Championship: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Ronaldo Angelim, Fábio Luciano and Juan; Cristian, Jaílton, Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
Despite reinforcements, Fla bets on 'veterans' for the debut\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - With the group complete, Joel Santana is now focused on training Flamengo for their debut in the Campeonato Carioca on Sunday against Boavista at the Maracanã. Despite the many reinforcements that have arrived at Gávea, the coach is expected to start the competition with a squad made up of players who played in the 2007 Brazilian Championship for the Rubro-Negro. Unless there are any surprises, the team will take to the field this weekend with the following lineup: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Ronaldo Angelim, Fábio Luciano and Juan; Cristian, Jaílton, Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
"Flamengo finished well in the last Brazilian Championship, and we know we have a strong squad. The team Joel chooses will go out there and give their best," commented Flamengo midfielder Cristian.
Of the starters Joel intends to field in his debut, goalkeeper Bruno's new contract still needs to be registered with the CBF, as does that of midfielder Jônatas, on loan from Espanyol. Flamengo's board assures that it has already taken all the necessary measures. "In principle, there's no risk. The transfer paperwork has already arrived. Now it's just a matter of bureaucracy with the Federation and the CBF," said Flamengo's director of football, Eduardo Manhães, in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Midfielder Gavilán and midfielder Kléberson, suspended by STJD and FIFA respectively, will not be able to be included in the first games of the Campeonato Carioca.
Hoping to gain the players' trust, Tardelli arrives in Gávea\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Thursday promises to be a festive one for Flamengo. But the celebrations will be far from the Maracanã, the club's favorite stadium. Early in the afternoon, at a luncheon held at a hotel in Rio de Janeiro's west zone, the club will officially launch Fla-TV, a major investment by its directors to help increase revenue for the Gávea coffers. Fla-TV's first broadcast will feature the presentation of striker Diego Tardelli, a reinforcement signed last Tuesday. Even before donning the Flamengo jersey for the first time, the player is already talking about the excitement of playing for the Rio de Janeiro team. "It's always exciting to play in front of a crowd like Flamengo's. I hope to do well and become an idol of this crowd," said Diego, who was at São Paulo's training center this Wednesday morning to say goodbye to his now former teammates.
Before winning over the fans, Diego Tardelli knows he'll need to earn the trust of the team's players, especially after the heated exchange he had with striker Souza while still negotiating with Flamengo. "I apologize if I said anything too much to Souza. I want to come and help Flamengo. The group is very close-knit and has quality players," he commented.
Diego Tardelli was hired at the request of coach Joel Santana, who wanted a striker with different characteristics than Souza and Obina. Even so, the former São Paulo player doesn't arrive with a guaranteed position, according to the coach, and will need to show commitment to earn a starting spot. "Diego is a high-quality player who has had periods of fluctuation at São Paulo. It's a significant investment, and he'll have to prove he's worth it. But here, whoever is at their best plays, and whoever isn't sits on the bench," Joel stated.
In addition to signing Tardelli, Flamengo's board is also not neglecting the players already in the squad. The club has agreed to renew the contract of left-back Egídio, who signed a contract until 2012.
PeléNet
Flamengo's starters win collective and Joel Santana approves
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Once again, coach Joel Santana based Flamengo's starting lineup on the same formation that ended last season. With the team in sync, they easily secured a 3-1 victory over the reserves in a training session held Wednesday afternoon in Gávea.
The highlights of the activity were Toró and Renato Augusto. Besides their excellent movement and helpful marking, both left their mark. Souza also scored, and Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, after a mistake by goalkeeper Bruno and defender Fábio Luciano, pulled one back for the substitutes.
During training, the red-and-black manager removed Cristian and brought Obina into the starting lineup, responding to Souza's requests last week during the preseason at Granja Comary in Teresópolis. This meant Renato Augusto dropped back to midfield, a position he prefers.
"I really enjoyed the training session. Both teams trained very well. I made a change to test and it actually worked out well. The team moved around a bit more. But we'll take a closer look at it on Friday. But I don't have much to change," Joel Santana emphasized.
The starters played with: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian (Obina), Toró and Ibson; Renato Augusto and Souza.
Flamengo fans side with Souza in the "fight" with Tardelli
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
With a good crowd (around 100), Flamengo's far superior starters defeated the reserves 3-1 in a training session held Wednesday afternoon at Gávea. And during the training session, one thing became very clear: Diego Tardelli, signed from São Paulo on Tuesday, will have to work hard to earn a place in the hearts of the red-and-blacks.
After Souza's goal, the first, people in the stands said: "That's it, Souza. That's the best answer you can give to Tardelli," said a fan, referring to the exchange of barbs between the number 9 and the newest signing last week.
Another episode witnessed by spectators wasn't the most pleasant. As he has been doing frequently, Jaílton switched positions with Leonardo Moura and appeared unmarked as a surprise player on the right flank. But his cross went behind Diego's goal. "Jaílton, go back to Ipatinga. They're waiting for you there," shouted a fan.
Immediately, Toró turned to where the crowd was gathered and shouted, "Hey, idiot, stop it. Stop this nonsense," the midfielder retorted, defending his teammate and demonstrating the unity so highlighted by everyone in the group.
After the incident, the troublemaker was properly restrained by club security, which allowed peace to be restored in Gávea.
Léo Medeiros renews with Flamengo until 2010
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo agreed on Tuesday to keep another player: midfielder Léo Medeiros, who renewed his contract until the end of 2010. Treated as a kind of wild card by coach Joel Santana, the player was honored and believes he has earned it.
"I was very happy with the deal. The directors' interest in keeping me at the club for so long showed that all my efforts so far have not been in vain. I've won titles, experienced incredible moments, and played important roles in several of the team's games. I believe that all of this combined influenced this decision," he said.
"In 2007 I proved that I am important to the group, mainly because I can be used in more than one position. Joel knows he can count on me," he added.
At the start of the season, however, Léo has been losing some of his place in the team. Proof of this is that during training sessions, the midfielder has been training separately, along with young defenders Thiago Sales and Niltão.
Joel Santana apprehensive about Bruno's regularization at Fla
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's football director, Eduardo Manhães, has already stated that goalkeeper Bruno will be registered with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and the Rio de Janeiro Football Federation (FERJ) by the end of the week. However, all this uncertainty surrounding the Flamengo's number 1 has been worrying coach Joel Santana.
"I'm waiting for that so I can define the team soon. But from what I know, it seems like everything will be sorted out tomorrow (Thursday). That's what I hope. Because I need to know that," said the coach.
Bought from a group of investors, Bruno signed a five-year contract (four with the possibility of a one-year extension) with Flamengo. According to Eduardo Manhães, the first installment (700 euros - R$1,9 million) has already been paid, and the goalkeeper has yet to be registered due to bureaucratic issues.
Other players have not yet had their names released in the CBF's BID, such as defensive midfielders Jônatas and Cristian. According to the club's board, these two cases will also be resolved by Friday.
Flamengo coach fears being surprised in the State Championship debut
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo invested heavily in signings and left its fans confident of a successful 2008 season. But coach Joel Santana doesn't share this euphoria. He's cautious and worried about his team's performance in the first match of the State Championship, against Boavista, on Sunday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Maracanã stadium.
"A debut is always a debut. No matter how good a job we do, the debut is always very worrying. Generally, the players are still a bit stuck and this can lead to surprises," the coach assessed.
Joel also emphasized the need for his players to take the field with the utmost seriousness. He also asked for respect from all opponents.
"It won't be easy. Everyone can be sure of that. And Boavista is putting together a good team from what I've seen. Respecting everyone is our obligation," he stressed.
Flamengo and Internacional duel for a place in the quarterfinals of the Copa SP
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo and Internacional face off this Thursday at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at the Antônio Soares de Oliveira Stadium in Guarulhos in the round of XNUMX of the São Paulo Junior Cup. The team that qualifies will face Santos or Pão de Açúcar-SP in the next stage.
Flamengo arrives with credentials after a good victory over Goiás, 3-1. In the first phase, Rubro-Negro beat Nacional-AM (4-0), Ypiranga-AP (11-1) and lost to XV de Piracicaba (3-2).
Internacional, who eliminated Juventude-RS in the previous round, enters the field as favorites. After all, Colorado is undefeated in the competition. In the group stage, the Gauchos defeated Marília-SP (7-0), Independência-AC (1-0), and Flamengo-SP (2-0).
Flamengo and Internacional faced each other about a month ago in a Brazilian Under-20 Championship match in Rio Grande do Sul. Flamengo prevailed, winning 2-0.
BalloonSport
Joel is not afraid of documentation problems
Coach is confident he will have all players available for the Carioca debut
Fred Huber From GLOBOESPORTE.COM,
Bruno is one of the Fla players who are not yet registered with Ferj
Although some Flamengo players are not yet registered with the Rio de Janeiro Football Federation (FERJ), such as goalkeeper Bruno and midfielders Jônatas and Cristian, coach Joel Santana is confident he will have all his players available for the debut on Sunday against Boavista at Maracanã. The Flamengo manager noted that it would be detrimental to change the team that has been training together for almost a month.
"Some players are waiting for their paperwork to be ready, like Cristian and Bruno, but I don't think we'll have any problems. It would be very bad to have to change the team after almost a month of training, but that won't happen. Management should give me an update tomorrow," he says.
Still in Fla's pre-season, at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, executive director Eduardo Manhães said that the club would not have any documentation problems for the debut.
Toró celebrates good form at Fla
Steering wheel highlights the importance of Joel Santana, who gives him all the confidence to perform
Fred Huber
Toró was one of the players who stood out the most during the preseason
A standout performer at Wednesday's training session in Gávea, midfielder Toró is enjoying a honeymoon with the Flamengo fans. He also performed above average during preseason training at Granja Comary in Teresópolis. He highlighted the support coach Joel Santana has given him since taking over at Flamengo.
"I'm in a really good place. Joel has been giving me his full support since he arrived at the club. Now I want to continue my work because we have important and very tough competitions this year," he says.
Joel Santana said he trusts Toró's potential and is satisfied with the player's performance.
- We bet on the player and he achieved starting status, did well and continues to make me satisfied with his work - he says.
Toró is confident that 2008 will be an even more productive year for him. Now that he's more comfortable in the midfield role, he wants to increase his productivity even further.
"Last year I was still adjusting to playing in this new role. I think I'm better prepared now; preseason was great. I hope to do well and score goals," he says.
Leo Medeiros renews until 2010
Midfielder says that all his effort to date with the red-black shirt has been worth it
Leo Medeiros' versatility is seen positively by Joel Santana
Midfielder Leo Medeiros signed a contract renewal with Flamengo last Tuesday until the end of 2010. The player is seen within the group as a versatile athlete, who plays in more than one position, which gave him several opportunities with coach Joel Santana in 2007. He was very happy with the long contract he signed with Fla.
"I was very happy with the agreement. The directors' interest in keeping me at the club for so long showed that all my efforts so far have not been in vain. I've won titles, experienced incredible moments, and played important roles in several of the team's games. I believe all of this combined influenced the board's decision," he said through his press office.
Still outside his ideal weight, Leo Medeiros is working hard to be available for Joel Santana for the debut in the Campeonato Carioca, next Sunday, against Boavista.
"In 2007, I proved that I'm important to the team, especially because I can be used in more than one position. Joel knows he can count on me," he concluded.
Joel predicts difficulties in the debut
Coach remembers that first games are complicated and says he already has the team selected
Fred Huber
Flamengo's debut in the Campeonato Carioca is approaching, and the team is preparing to put on a good show against Boavista on Sunday at the Maracanã stadium and kick off 2008 on the right foot. Although the opponent isn't a traditional team, coach Joel Santana points out that, historically, debuts are always tough games. He urged his players in training this Wednesday to be focused on the field when the ball really starts rolling.
"A debut is always a debut, always a worrying one. Italy, in the World Cup, started with draws and then went on to win; that's just how it is. The opponent is strong and has reinforced well too," he says.
Joel has no doubts about which team to field for his debut. It will be the team that finished third in the 2007 Brazilian Championship: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró; and Renato Augusto and Souza. The only possibility of a change will be in the event of registration issues, as in the case of Bruno and Cristian.
"I have no doubt, I'm ready for the game. There's nothing to invent," concludes the red coach.
The starters win collectively and please Joel
Souza, Renato Augusto and Toró scored the goals in the activity, which was highly praised by the coach
Fred Huber
Toró was the highlight of training this Wednesday and left his mark
Flamengo's starting players defeated the reserves 3-0 on Wednesday afternoon in Gávea. The goals were scored by Souza, Renato Augusto, and Toró. Showing great commitment and mobility, Toró was the standout performer. In the second half, Joel Santana replaced Cristian with Obina and moved Renato Augusto to midfield. The coach was pleased with what he saw on the field.
"I really enjoyed the activity. I made some changes in the second half to liven up the training session. The pace was very intense, and it was very hot, the same conditions we'll face in the opening match. Both teams that trained have great quality," he analyzes.
The starters played with: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian (Obina), Ibson and Toró; Renato Augusto and Souza. The reserves played with: Diego; Luizinho, Rodrigo, Rodrigo Arroz and Egídio; Jonatas, Colace, Kléberson and Marcinho; Maxi and Obina.
Márcio Braga: 'Fla in first is obvious'
The club's president believes the club will further increase its lead at the top.
Eduardo Peixoto
Research does not surprise Márcio Braga
The news that Flamengo ranks first in yet another fan ranking survey in Brazil wasn't a surprise in Gávea. President Márcio Braga says he, and no one else, doubts Flamengo's numerical superiority in the country. He added that he believes the gap between them and their rivals will widen in the coming years. The "Datafolha" survey shows that Flamengo is favored by 17% of Brazilians aged 16 and older, while Corinthians is favored by 12%. São Paulo comes in third with 8%.
"I was in New York yesterday and didn't even know about the survey. But Flamengo being in first place is obvious. No one has ever doubted, and can doubt, that our fan base is the biggest, and I'll say more: the red-and-black nation is growing, and this gap will only widen," says Márcio Braga.
In the state of Rio de Janeiro, the red-and-blacks' strength is even more impressive. The club is in first place, with almost three times the percentage of the second-placed club, and also surpasses its rivals combined. Forty-six percent of respondents declared themselves Flamengo fans, compared to 46% who support Vasco. Botafogo and Fluminense each reach 16%. In the capital, the result is similar: Flamengo is favored by 9%, 43% say they support Vasco, 18% name Fluminense as their favorite team, and 11% declare themselves Botafogo fans.
Flamengo even outperforms some traditional teams in their states, such as Bahia. Bahia has a 16% share of support, while Flamengo has a 21% share.
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Souza/Tardelli duo is the favorite of the red-blacks
Enemies came first in a poll conducted by LANCENET!
Tardelli and Souza exchanged barbs in the press. Now, they could form an attacking duo (Credit: Editing: Alex Ximenes)
LANCEPRESS!
Souza and Diego Tardelli may have traded barbs in the press, but with the former São Paulo player's signing confirmed, the two could even form Flamengo's attacking duo. In a poll conducted by LANCENET!, 70,13% of Flamengo fans voted them the ideal pairing for the team. The second most voted pairing was Souza and Obina, with 15,95%. In third place were Souza and Renato Augusto, with 13,91%. A total of 7.352 votes were cast.
By all accounts, the two make the perfect combination of styles. Souza is a player who stays more fixed in the box, a true killer. Tardelli, on the other hand, is skilled and drops into the wings, potentially playing as a waiter.
The two began to clash as soon as Flamengo's interest in signing Diego Tardelli was announced. At the time, the possibility of Ronaldo strengthening the team was also being discussed in Gávea. Excited, Tardelli declared that it would be a dream come true to play alongside the "Phenomenon." Souza, however, became offended and said that the then São Paulo striker would have to work hard to secure a spot and that only the Milan player would arrive with starting status.
In an attempt to calm the argument between the two, coach Joel Santana said he would have them sleep in the same room at the training camp. Souza, calmer, accepted the solution with good humor:
- My roommate is Egídio (left-back). But it's no problem at all, if anything happens, he can put another bed in the room and the three of us can sleep.
Toró: 'It's my best moment at Flamengo'
Player could start the year as a starter despite competition
LANCEPRESS!
His strong performance in this early season has earned Toró continued high regard from Flamengo coach Joel Santana. The player has been capitalizing on the opportunities he's given and is already looking forward to starting the year as a starter.
Despite the strong competition in midfield, Toró was among the starters in all training and training matches.
"This is my best moment since I arrived. I don't consider myself a starter. Now I have to keep going and dedicate myself to playing consistently. Souza, Renato Augusto, and I are very well-coordinated up front. They have quality, and it's good to play with players like that," the player stated.
And Toró received praise from Joel Santana:
- Toró finished the year well and is maintaining the same level he achieved in 2008. He satisfies me and I hope he continues to perform well - said the coach.
Joel calls for calm in Flamengo's debut
Coach remembers that the first game is complicated
LANCEPRESS!
Joel Santana doesn't believe Flamengo will have an easy time in its opening match against Boavista. The coach urged fans to remain calm and cited Italy, the 1982 World Cup champion, as an example, after drawing its first three matches.
"It's always worrying. It won't be an easy game, especially since Boavista is strengthening," he said.
In 2007, Flamengo defeated Boavista 1-0, with a goal from debutant Souza.
Toró is Fla's standout player in the preseason
Supporter scored a goal in the starters' 3-1 victory over the reserves
LANCEPRESS!
The versatile Toró continues to draw praise from Flamengo coach Joel Santana. Since the start of preseason training in Teresopólis, the midfielder has been excelling in training and causing headaches for the coach, who has plenty of options in Flamengo's midfield.
At Wednesday's training session, the player scored a goal in the starters' 3-1 victory over the reserves and spoke about the good phase he is experiencing at the Gávea club.
"It's been a great year, now it's time to keep it going. We have tough competitions coming up like the Libertadores and the State Championship, and I have to work hard to be present in most of the games," the player told Rádio Tupi.
Joel keeps it a secret, but gives a clue about the lineup
The team for the debut should be the same one that has been training
LANCEPRESS!
Joel Santana was pleased with the performance of the starters in Wednesday's training session. The coach approved of the team, with Renato Augusto both up front alongside Souza and in midfield. However, he declined to reveal the starting lineup for the debut against Boavista on Sunday at Maracanã.
"I liked both halves. The second half was better, as the reserves gave in a bit because some weren't in optimal condition. Both teams have quality. I'm analyzing the physical and tactical aspects. I have no more doubts, but I'll only announce the lineup on Friday or Saturday," he stated.
But the coach ended up giving clues that the team that will play on Sunday should be the same one that played in the last game of 2007. Joel responded to the concern that some players would not be regularized in time for Sunday:
"If they're not (regularized), it'll be bad. Because I'd have to change the team that's been training for a long time. But that doesn't keep me up at night."
The starting lineup for the collective training camp was the same one that played three training matches in the preseason. It consisted of: Bruno, Léo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró; and Renato Augusto and Souza.
Pedro Beda wants to score goals and win the Copa-SP
The junior team's striker has won titles since arriving at Fla in 2002.
Fred Gomes RIO
Flamengo's top scorer in the São Paulo Junior Football Cup with seven goals, forward Pedro Beda is looking to help the club lift the competition's trophy. According to the player, he only needs this one to complete his collection of titles in the Rubro-Negro's youth divisions. The team, coached by Rogério Lourenço, returns to action this Thursday, when they face Internacional in the round of 16. The match will be played at XNUMX pm at the Antônio Soares de Oliveira Stadium in Guarulhos.
"I'm very happy with these goals; I have seven in four games. However, the most important thing, as I mentioned to everyone, is to win. It didn't matter that I scored against XV de Piracicaba—in the last round of the first stage—and we lost. Against Goiás—in the second stage—I scored twice, and we qualified," explained the top scorer.
The 18-year-old, from Mato Grosso do Sul, spent a good part of the interview with LANCENET! listing the achievements he had with Flamengo's youth teams.
"I joined Flamengo in 2002, at age 13. I was a three-time state champion with the juniors, a two-time champion with the youth team. I was champion of the OPG, the Copa BH, and the Copa Macaé. The São Paulo Cup is still to come, right?" he said good-naturedly.
In addition to his desire for the trophy, Beda will do everything he can to become the competition's top scorer - until now, Rafael Martins, from Grêmio, and Vinícius, from Taboão da Serra, share the Copinha's goal statistics.
"God willing, I'll be able to pass Rafael Martins. Today (Wednesday), Grêmio won 1-0 and he didn't score. He scored seven in the first game and then only one more. I've been scoring in every game. I hope to do more and help Flamengo win the title," he dreams.
Anyone who thinks the player only has the title and top scorer as his plans for 2008 is mistaken:
"I hope to move up to the senior team this year. I think I have interesting characteristics. I've been doing a good job both inside the box and coming out of it to help my teammates. All the forwards on the senior team are good, but my hope is to move up this year. However, we have a tough game this Thursday against Inter, and I hope to score the goals and take Flamengo to the quarterfinals," he concluded.
Flamengo director believes in Jônatas' presence
Eduardo Manhães explains the situation of the steering wheel and also of Bruno\ LANCEPRESS!\
Although the contracts of goalkeeper Bruno and midfielder Jônatas have not yet been finalized, Flamengo's director of football, Eduardo Manhães, believes they will both be on the field next Sunday, when the club debuts in the Campeonato Carioca against Boavista at 16 p.m. at Maracanã. According to the director, the club has already taken all necessary measures.
"In principle, there's no risk of them being left out. All the documents that needed to arrive from abroad have already arrived. We've already submitted the contracts. What's left now is the bureaucracy of the entities. But I think the situation will be regularized by the end of the week," he told Rádio Brasil.