The Globe
FLA WINS IN BASKETBALL
Forward Marcelinho and point guard Hélio each scored 25 points in Flamengo's 99-88 victory over Pitágoras/Minas (MG) yesterday in Belo Horizonte, in the opening match of Group C of the Basketball League of the Americas.
Gavilán, Fla's dream for the Libertadores
In the group draw, a request to Conmebol: rigor in the selection of judges
Márcio Tavares
The specter of altitude, following FIFA's ruling that official matches cannot be played at altitudes above 2.750 meters, is a thing of the past. Although refereeing remains a specter, Flamengo is beginning to prepare for a strong showing in the Libertadores. Besides introducing midfielder Marcinho yesterday, the club is negotiating with a competition expert: Paraguayan star Gavilán, formerly of Inter and Grêmio, who has four continental tournaments under his belt, could be the club's next attraction. Gavilán owns his rights, and negotiations are well underway, as is the return of Jônatas.
But, in addition to strengthening its position, Flamengo intends to speak today in Asunción, during the 2008 Copa Libertadores group draw, with Carlos Alarcón, president of the South American Confederation's refereeing committee. The performance of Argentine referee Héctor Baldassi in the match that eliminated Flamengo against Uruguay's Defensor Sport at the Maracanã stadium has not yet been forgotten.
"I'm going to ask Alarcón to be more rigorous with the refereeing. That Argentinean took us out of the Libertadores," said vice president of football Kleber Leite, who will be in Paraguay to watch the draw.
Club presents Marcinho, its first reinforcement
To avoid problems in the Libertadores, Flamengo is strengthening its ranks. Yesterday, midfielder Marcinho was introduced, and tomorrow it will be defender Rodrigo's turn. By the end of the year, Flamengo will announce two more reinforcements and likely a bet on a newcomer that Kleber has been working on with coach Joel Santana, who left his vacation to welcome the new signing.
"I'm pleased that things are happening, we're building a team to truly compete for titles. Marcinho is an agile player who gets into the box to finish and is joining the family we're building for next year, as we've retained 80% of the group that showed such dignity in the fight to save the team from relegation," said Joel.
Marcinho, 23, a former Atlético-MG player who has played alongside Fábio Luciano in the current red-black squad, is banking on his willpower to win at a club with a demanding and involved fan base.
"I don't like to talk about my qualities. I'll just say that I'm a player who never gives up. Flamengo's fans demand a lot of determination, and there's no shortage of that. The support of the fans was a big factor in my decision to come," said Marcinho, who signed a contract until December 2008. "I've played for big clubs, but wearing the Flamengo jersey is the biggest challenge of my career."
Another midfield reinforcement has also been practically secured in recent days. Flamengo reached an agreement with Besiktas of Turkey regarding Kleberson. Lawyer Michel Assef Filho convinced the Turkish club to reduce the compensation from €3 million to €1 million. The agreement will be finalized and made official tomorrow at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Zurich. Kleberson was suspended by FIFA for four months for leaving Besiktas. In addition to the suspension, the organization had stipulated a fine of €3 million.
Yesterday, at a festive ceremony at the City Palace, President Márcio Braga and some Flamengo fans were moved to pay tribute to Mayor Cesar Maia, for the registration of the red-black fans as a cultural asset of the city.
Fernando Calazans
There are so many players coming and going, coming and going... Well, I can't remember defender Rodrigo, who Flamengo just signed. But the information we're getting about him is excellent.
One of them comes from São Paulo, which also wanted to sign the player. Even better, it comes from goalkeeper Rogério Ceni, who has a great head for football. He knows how to play with his hands, his feet, and sees the game. If he was the one encouraging the club to sign Rodrigo, it's because Rodrigo must be really good. And, thus, he could form a defense with Fábio Luciano that would be the envy of clubs here.
So what's Flamengo missing? Definitely a striker to play alongside Souza. Oh, and how much they're missing!
Paulo Sérgio, the club's young revelation, who has been scoring a few goals, is certain he will be that man. He suffered a serious injury and is now returning. He may even be the man, but he hasn't shown it yet.
If Flamengo has another good striker, one who arrives to immediately become a part of the team, it could create smoke in the Copa Libertadores. And where there's smoke, there's fire.
Sports Journal
Marcinho is introduced and praises Flamengo
One of Flamengo's new signings for 2008, midfielder Marcinho was introduced this Tuesday in Gávea. The player was full of praise for the club and his future teammates.
"From what I've seen in the short time I've been here, Flamengo has excellent professionals and a great structure. Talking about teammates is easy. The squad is excellent," Marcinho praised in an interview with Rádio Globo.
When asked if he's ready to be a starter in the club's midfield, the athlete deflects, saying he'll do everything he can to maintain his prestige at the club. Regarding his reputation for undisciplinedness, Marcinho was diplomatic and cited his individual awards.
"Saying I arrived to be a starter is complicated. I arrived to help. It depends on the coach's approval. I have to show my work and win over the fans, then I can consider starting. In 2006, I was voted the best player in Minas Gerais, and in 2007, the best player in the Campeonato Mineiro. I have the admiration of the Minas Gerais fans, and I will strive to do everything I can to earn their respect," said the player.
Despite his good football, Marcinho has a reputation for being undisciplined, which has led coach Leão to remove him from the team on a few occasions.
Zico demands justice for the World Cup
FIFA's decision not to recognize the winners of the Intercontinental Cup, or Club World Cup—played between 1960 and 2004—as world champions bothers Zico, who won the tournament with Flamengo in 1981 (a 3-0 victory over Liverpool on December 13). He criticizes the organization's stance and believes the red-and-black team should even seek legal action to ensure the victory is recognized.
"The managers, those at Flamengo's office, have to fight with those at FIFA's office. It's another one of those controversies that involve players, fans, and the media, and that are decided by people sitting in offices," says the current coach of Fenerbahçe, from Turkey, in an interview with estadao.com.br.
The former player doesn't even consider the possibility of discussing the tournament's validity. "There's no argument to be made. We played a very difficult Libertadores, we faced the European champions, as representatives of South America—just as Boca faced Milan—and we won. What else can I say?"
peeled
In the already well-known "All-Star Game" promoted by Zico, another ingredient was added yesterday. Coach Carlinhos, "Violino," will coach the "1981 champions" team, made up mostly of players who were world champions in Japan.
Concern about Libertadores referees
Flamengo's fate in next year's Copa Libertadores will begin to be determined today at 19 p.m. in Asunción, the capital of Paraguay, where the group draw will take place. Flamengo will be represented by vice president of football Kleber Leite, who confessed to concerns about the tournament's refereeing.
"What worries me most is the refereeing. It's worth remembering that Flamengo wasn't eliminated from this year's competition because of their poor performance in Uruguay. We were eliminated because of that Argentine referee who officiated here at Maracanã."
With the New Year approaching, speculation continues to rage at Gávea. The three names floated at the club yesterday, while midfielder Marcinho was being introduced, were midfielder Gavilan and striker Edmundo.
Gavilan's contract with Grêmio ended, but as a defensive midfielder, he's unlikely to be in Flamengo's plans. The situation is even more difficult for Edmundo, as the forward has a close connection with the Vasco fans.
Mayor overthrows Flamengo fans
Patrícia Amorim, Marcio Braga and Cesar Maia enthusiastically sing the Flamengo anthem during the tribute
Brazil's largest fan base finally received a just tribute yesterday at the City Palace in Botafogo. Mayor Cesar Maia, through Decree 28.787 on December 4th, declared the legion of Flamengo fans a cultural heritage site in Rio de Janeiro. The ceremony lasted approximately 30 minutes and was attended by Councilwomen Patrícia Amorim and Leila do Flamengo, Municipal Secretary Eider Dantas, and Federal Representative Solange Amaral.
From Fla, the world champions, Julio César Urigeler, Andrade and Adílio, the vice-president of marketing Ricardo Hinrichsen, the vice-president Delair Dumbrosck, the vice-president of finance José Carlos Dias and the president Marcio Braga attended.
The culmination of the tribute was when the mayor donned a Flamengo jersey and sang the club's anthem. Moved, the Flamengo president thanked the club for the recognition:
"The day Mayor Cesar Maia recognized our fans as a city heritage, he was ecstatic. They are Flamengo's greatest asset. I'm moved by the understanding of a public figure for this institution and what it represents, and I see this coming from a true Botafogo fan," Marcio Braga showered praise on him.
Cesar Maia, who received a plaque from the fans, returned the affection, and said that fans of other clubs in the city will not receive this tribute:
"This landmark designation represents not only Flamengo, but all other clubs as well. I'm from a time when fans had only one chant, which lasted 20, 30 years. Flamengo has been breaking that record recently," the mayor praised.
Swap involving Gérson Magrão guarantees Léo Medeiros at Fla
Flamengo signed a trade with Cruzeiro on Tuesday involving players Léo Medeiros and Gérson Magrão. According to the deal, Flamengo will hold 50% of Medeiros's transfer rights, and Cruzeiro will retain 40% of Magrão's federation rights.
The deal was discussed approximately two months ago. However, as Gérson Magrão's value rose while playing for Ipatinga, Flamengo was willing to offer him as a bargaining chip in a deal involving Roger.
Léo Medeiros has been with Flamengo since April 2006, when he excelled in the Copa do Brasil with Ipatinga. At the time, he arrived alongside center forward Diego Silva and midfielder Wálter Minhoca. Both have since returned to the team from the interior of Minas Gerais.
Flamengo's legal vice president travels in search of Renato
Flamengo's legal vice president, Michel Assef Filho, is packing his bags for Saudi Arabia and will attempt to return from the desert with a gift for the Flamengo fans. The lawyer will attempt to secure the release of midfielder Renato, who is playing for Al Nasser. Renato wants to return to Gávea, but negotiations aren't that simple.
"There's the possibility and the player's desire. It remains to be seen whether Flamengo will be able to meet the Arab club's needs. I have to figure out how to proceed, but I'll only know when I get there. There's a fine and a contract. Obviously, we won't pay the release clause; we'll only bring him in if negotiations are possible," said Assef, who sounded optimistic.
"When a player wants to leave one club and go to another, that desire is the most decisive factor. It's a difficult negotiation, but not impossible," Michel Assef told Rádio Bandeirantes.
Mengão wins the first in the League
The team defeated Minas Tênis 99-88 and today faces Boca Juniors in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais - Flamengo's debut in the Liga das Américas couldn't have gone better. They defeated Minas Tênis 99-88 in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, and showed they're ready to fight for the title of the international competition.
Today the team faces the traditional Boca Juniors (Argentina). With a win, they will remain at the top of Group C. The match will be at 10:22 pm at Arena Telemig/Minas.
Minas Gerais, the reigning champion of the South American Champions League, will seek to recover against Uruguay's Defensor Sporting. The match will begin at 20 p.m., also at the Minas Gerais club's gymnasium.
The top scorer of the match was American Jasper Johnson, of Minas Gerais, with 26 points. Soró was the second-highest scorer for the Minas Gerais team, with 20. Marcelinho and Hélio scored the most points for Flamengo, each with 25 points.
The red-and-blacks ignored the reigning Minas Gerais champions and went on the attack. Although the start was even, it didn't take long for the Rio de Janeiro team to pull away on the scoreboard.
Flamengo's superiority allowed them to lead the scoreboard until the end of the first quarter and throughout the second half. Until halftime, the highlight was the well-organized Flamengo defense, which managed to neutralize the attacks of Argentine point guard Facundo Sucatzky, the Minas Gerais club's biggest name.
In the third quarter, the hosts took to the court with a new attitude. Well-positioned on both defense and offense, they closed the gap point by point until, with a free throw, Vanderson turned the score around. The penultimate quarter ended with the Minas Gerais team four points ahead.
The home team's remaining grit shifted in the final quarter. Led by Fred and Hélio, the red-and-black team dominated the court at the decisive moment.
With 12 points in just two minutes, Flamengo retook the lead and hasn't let go since.\ Group C matches will continue until tomorrow. At the end, the top two teams will advance to the quarterfinals in January.\
MINAS TENNIS\ Sucatzky (4), Soró (20), Vanderson (16), Johnson (26) and Maozão (16). Entered: L. Felipe (2) and Guilherme (4).\ Coach: Flávio Davis\
FLAMENGO\ Fred (14), Marcelinho (25), Amiel (4), Alírio (6) and Coloneze (16). Entered: Hélio (25), Vágenr (4) and Fernando Mineiro (5).\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta.\
Red-Black Sofia is the attraction of the Pan-Junior
Striker Sofia Bittencourt is one of Brazil's attractions for the Pan-American Games
Red-and-black striker Sofia Bittencourt is a top contender to represent the Brazilian women's junior water polo team at the Pan American Games, which will be held in July at the Julio de Lamare Aquatic Park. Her desire to make history is so strong that she played on loan from Paulistano in the Brazilian Junior Championship last weekend.
After all, your generation has the responsibility to maintain the good results and, who knows, even surpass those of the famous perfect girls.
"Making history is very motivating. Our generation could be the first to win a silver or gold medal. But honestly, it will be very difficult because this generation has never played together. So, the priority will be defending the bronze medal. There are some quality girls," said Sofia, who acknowledges that she will face greater pressure as a Flamengo player.
"Without a doubt, playing for a local club will attract attention at the Pan American Games. But I shouldn't be the only Flamengo player. Playing in Brazil is important because our family and friends will be able to watch the games. I hope there's a good fan base and publicity," said Sofia Bittencourt.
CBDA President Coaracy Nunes highlights the importance of the event.
"Admission will be free, and we're counting on the support of the JS to ensure the public can attend. Recent partnerships between the CBDA and the JS have been very beneficial for the sport. I have great confidence in this new generation and believe that in two or three years, these boys and girls can form very strong teams, the best in the history of our polo."
Flamengo wins another rowing match
CR Flamengo wins another rowing event. This time the Gávea team took on the III Vitória (ES) Rowing Marathon, held on Saturday (12/15), and was crowned Champion.
In addition to gaining great prestige, the red-black team, who arrived at the competition as a guest, pocketed the handsome sum of R$4.000,00 as a prize.
Flamengo, consistently achieving excellent results, has been present in the competition for the past two years. This Saturday's result has only been achieved by the Brazilian Rowing Team and Grêmio Náutico União previously.
Result of the III Vitória Rowing Marathon:
1st - CRFlamengo “A” (RJ) R$4.000,00\ 2nd - Alvares Cabral (ES) R$3.000,00\ 3rd - Saldanha da Gama (ES) R$2.000,00\ 4th - Náutico (ES) R$1.000,00\ 5th - CRFlamengo “B” (RJ)\ 6th - Corinthians (SP)\ 7th - Campos Rowing Association (RJ)\
O Dia
Flamengo seeks major reinforcement for the attack
Rio - After agreeing to a deal with defender Rodrigo and midfielder Marcinho, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, stated that Flamengo fans will be in for a big surprise in the coming days. The board is working to secure the signing of a top striker for next season and, especially, for the 2008 Copa Libertadores.
The director refuses to mention names, but says that negotiations are well underway.
"This will be another new development. We have some very good possibilities in the pipeline, but I won't mention names. If everything goes well, we can announce it next week," said Kléber Leite.
Flamengo presents supporter Marcinho
Rio - Flamengo introduced midfielder Marcinho this Tuesday, formerly of Atlético Mineiro, and arrives as the team's main reinforcement so far. The player, who stated he was touched by the strength of the Flamengo fans, said he's arriving to compete for a midfield position. However, if coach Joel Santana wants to use him elsewhere on the field, that's fine with him.
"I like playing as a midfielder. But I've played as a third midfielder before. The important thing is to do what the coach tells you and try to help Flamengo in the best way possible," said Marcinho.
Cesar Maia presents the president of Flamengo with a plaque for the preservation of the fans' club
Rio - Mayor Cesar Maia received this morning, at the City Palace, the president of Flamengo, Márcio Braga, and representatives of the club's fans, who presented the Mayor with the number 12 shirt of the Flamengo football team, a symbol of the red-black fans.
Cesar Maia presented Márcio Braga with a plaque officially recognizing the Flamengo fan club as a cultural heritage site in Rio de Janeiro. The ceremony took place to the sound of the Charanga do Flamengo—the oldest organized fan club—playing the club's anthem and battle cry.
Sports Gazette
Jônatas close to agreeing to return to Flamengo\ Paulo Amaral\
São Paulo (SP) - Determined to have a good campaign in the 2008 season and to seek the second Copa Libertadores title, Flamengo's board hopes to confirm, in the next few hours, the return of midfielder Jônatas to Gávea.\ Traded to Espanyol, from Barcelona, in August 2006, the player is not in the plans of coach Ernesto Valverde and is expected with open arms by Joel Santana at the red-black. Eduardo Uram, the midfielder's agent, confirmed to Gazeta Esportiva.Net that small details are still missing for the agreement.\
“We are reaching an agreement with Flamengo and the tendency is for him to agree to his return today (Tuesday),” revealed Uram, subsequently denying that Fluminense and São Paulo have tried to block the negotiation.
"I spoke with São Paulo directors once, but not about Jônatas. They wanted another player, but I can't reveal his name. Fluminense didn't even contact me, but I can't say anything else right now," he summarized.
Jonatas has a current contract with the Catalan club until July 2010 and would return to the Rio de Janeiro club to compete in the 2008 Libertadores and, if the title is won, in the FIFA Club World Cup at the end of the year.
Libertadores defines groups this Wednesday\ Paulo Amaral\
São Paulo (SP) - The draw for the groups of the 2008 Copa Libertadores de América, the 49th edition of the most coveted club tournament in the Americas, will take place this Wednesday at 19 p.m. (Brasília time) at the headquarters of the South American Football Confederation (CSF) in Asunción, Paraguay. Participating in the ceremony will be CSF president Nicolás Leoz, along with special guests including the organization's general secretary, Eduardo Deluca, and former players Branco, now a Fluminense director, Ramón Diaz of Argentina, and Enrique Vera of Paraguay. The competition will bring together 35 clubs from the ten CSF-affiliated countries plus three from Mexico. The draw will be conducted, and in the first phase, known as the Pre-Libertadores, 12 clubs will compete, divided into two groups.
On one side will be Brazil (Cruzeiro), Argentina (Arsenal and Lanús), Uruguay (Wanderers), Colombia (undecided) and Mexico (also undecided). These teams will face representatives from Bolivia (undecided), Chile (Audax Italiano), Ecuador (Olmedo), Paraguay (Cerro Porteño), Peru (Cienciano) and Venezuela (Mineros). The first phase will consist of two knockout matches (January 30 and February 5).
From these matches, six teams will qualify, joining the 26 already qualified in the group stage. This phase will consist of 32 teams divided into eight groups, headed by the Brazilian and Argentine teams with the best performances in 2007.
Cruzeiro, if they qualify, will be drawn into a group with an Argentine team as the top seed. The same applies to Arsenal and Lanús, who will have to be drawn into groups headed by Brazilian clubs.
São Paulo, Santos, Flamengo and Fluminense from Brazil, in addition to Boca Juniors, Estudiantes, San Lorenzo and River Plate from Argentina will lead the way in the groups for the second phase of the competition, which also has the following teams assured: Real Potosí and San José (Bolivia), Colo Colo (Chile), Nacional de Medellín (Colombia), LDU and Cuenca (Ecuador), Sportivo Luqueño and Libertad (Paraguay), San Martín and Coronel Bolognesi (Peru), Danúbio and Nacional (Uruguay), Caracas and Maracaibo (Venezuela) and Chivas Guadalajara (Mexico).
The competition system will be the same as in previous years, with the top two teams from each of the eight groups qualifying for the round of 16. From this stage onward, matches will be played in a knockout format until the two finalists are determined. As in 2007, the grouping from the semifinals onward will also be regulated, with the aim of preventing two clubs from the same country from reaching the final.
Wednesday's draw will determine the groups for the second phase and the dates for the entire tournament, which will end on July 2. Each club will be able to register 25 players, and those that qualify in the first stage will be able to change three players 48 hours before the start of the group stage.
Boca Juniors and São Paulo chasing records: The 2008 edition of the Copa Libertadores could hold some very special emotions for Brazilian and Argentine fans. In Brazil, the expectation of Flamengo and Fluminense meeting in the knockout stage will energize the Rio de Janeiro team, while a potential decisive duel between Santos and São Paulo will capture the attention of the São Paulo team. In Argentina, Boca Juniors and River Plate will also inevitably face off in the knockout stage if they eliminate the rivals that stand in their way.
Boca Juniors and São Paulo's personal battle for new records will also be at stake. The Argentines, current continental champions, will attempt to win their seventh Copa Libertadores and, in doing so, catch up with their compatriots, Independiente, the competition's all-time record holders for most titles.
São Paulo, in turn, is the only Brazilian team with three titles. Just as Santos could have achieved in 2008, they will attempt to prove their reputation as a cup winner and, for the fourth time, reach the top spot on the podium in the Americas.
Marcinho introduces himself to Fla and praises the red-black fans\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's first signing since the end of the Brazilian Championship, Marcinho, was officially presented Tuesday afternoon at Gávea Stadium. The player assured that he will not lack commitment to win over the club's fans. The midfielder was playing for Atlético-MG, but left after disagreeing with the club's renewal offer. "I'm a player who never gives up on the field. Flamengo fans demand a lot of grit, and I won't be lacking that. I'll give my all in training and matches to earn the trust of the fans and my teammates," said Marcinho, who isn't shy about the responsibility of wearing the Flamengo jersey.
"I've played for big clubs, but Flamengo is different. Wearing the jersey of Brazil's biggest club is the greatest challenge of my career, and a huge responsibility," said the enthusiastic Flamengo signing for the 2008 season.
Coach Joel Santana closely followed Marcinho's presentation and heaped praise on Flamengo's new player. "Marcinho will help us a lot because he's a very fast and skilled athlete. He's experienced despite his young age. He can also play more than one position, which is very important in today's football," concluded the coach.
Márcio Braga celebrates Flamengo's economic recovery\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo president Márcio Braga didn't hide his happiness with the club's current situation. In addition to the team's strong results this season, the director celebrates the club's financial recovery, especially after Flamengo obtained a Certificate of Good Debt Clearance. "Flamengo improves with each passing day, always moving forward. The great storm has passed, but now Flamengo must increase its ability to raise funds to invest in our football," said Márcio, who promised to pay the overdue salaries of employees and players as soon as he receives the Petrobras quotas that were withheld.
Despite being Flamengo's main representative, Márcio Braga seeks to share the club's responsibilities. Therefore, the director claims he doesn't know who the striker the club is interested in signing for 2008 might be.
"I have no idea, because Kléber (Kléber Leite, vice president of football) hasn't told me anything. I know they're looking for a striker, but I don't know who it might be," said the president, joking when asked about his preference. "There's Eto'o, who they say is the best; it could be him. I think there's a guy like Kaká too. He could come too. But seriously, the decision will be made by the football department," he concluded.
On Tuesday morning, Márcio Braga visited the City Palace in Rio de Janeiro, where he paid tribute to Mayor César Maia, who officially declared Flamengo's fan base a cultural heritage site in the Marvelous City. The event was attended by former Flamengo idols like Adílio and Andrade, who continue to work for the club. Márcio became emotional and shed tears during the ceremony.
"It's a landmark moment for Flamengo. The day he declared Flamengo's fans a cultural heritage site in Rio de Janeiro, he was ecstatic. Flamengo deserves this recognition. The fans are Flamengo's greatest asset," he commented.
During the event, César Maia wore Flamengo's number 12 jersey and downplayed the fact that he is a Botafogo fan. "The mayor has no religion or football team; he represents the city," he said. After the tribute at the City Palace, Márcio Braga will turn his attention this Wednesday to Asunción, Paraguay, where the 2008 Copa Libertadores group draws will be held.
PeléNet
Marcinho promises grit in his presentation to Flamengo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo unveiled 23-year-old midfielder Marcinho, formerly of Atlético-MG, on Tuesday afternoon. He is the club's second signing for the upcoming season. The club previously unveiled fellow midfielder Kléberson during the Brazilian Championship.
With a reputation as an undisciplined player, Marcinho promised to work hard to win over the Flamengo fans.
"I'm a player who never gives up on the field. Flamengo's fans demand a lot of determination, and there will be no shortage of that. The support of the fans played a big role in my decision to sign with the club," said the player, who signed a contract until the end of 2008.
"I've played for big clubs, but Flamengo is different. Wearing the shirt of the biggest club in Brazil is the biggest challenge of my career, and a huge responsibility," continued the athlete, who, in addition to Atlético-MG, played for Cruzeiro, Grêmio and Gençlerbirligi-TUR.
Coach Joel Santana was present at the presentation and praised the team's new signing.
"We're building a family, with the goal of winning big titles. Marcinho will help us a lot because he's a very fast and skillful player. He's an experienced athlete despite his young age. Furthermore, he can play in more than one position, which is very important in football today," he commented.
Signed with Flamengo, Rodrigo highlights the strength of the red-blacks
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo, through its vice president of football Kleber Leite, announced the signing of Rodrigo, who was playing for Dynamo Kyiv in Ukraine. Even before his presentation to his new club this Thursday, the defender spoke about the feeling of wearing the red-and-black jersey and being cheered on by his large fan base.
"It may seem like a cliché, but every soccer player truly dreams of playing for Flamengo. Having the red-and-black fans behind you makes all the difference in decisive matches. In Ukraine, I always followed the club online, especially in these last few weeks," he said through his press office.
Flamengo's deal with Rodrigo took a week. Before finalizing the deal, Flamengo had to "fight" with Santos, who were also interested in the defender.
"I hope 2008 is a victorious year and we will do everything we can to help Flamengo shine again on the international stage. Everyone's hope is to transform next year's squad into one of the most celebrated in the club's history," he concluded.
Fla agrees to keep Léo Medeiros for 2008
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's board confirmed on Tuesday the acquisition of 50% of the rights to midfielder Léo Medeiros from Cruzeiro. In exchange, Cruzeiro will cede 40% of the rights to midfielder Gérson Magrão, a standout player for Ipatinga-MG, the Brazilian Serie B runner-up.
Thus, Léo will remain at Gávea, starting his third season wearing the Flamengo jersey. In contrast, Magrão, who arrived at the Rio de Janeiro club earlier this year also on the recommendation of then-Flamengo coach Ney Franco, will be the new star of Raposa, the club where he came up through the youth ranks.
Leandro Ferreira Medeiros is 26 years old (May 14, 1981) and was signed in 2006. In total, the player has played 66 games and scored ten goals for the most popular team in the country.
Gerson Alencar Lima Junior, 22 years old (13/6/1985), had few opportunities at Flamengo, playing only seven times. Before moving to Rio de Janeiro, Magrão was at Feyenoord-HOL.
Carlinhos will coach Fla, the 87 champions, at Zico's party
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo, champions of the 1987 Copa União, will be coached by Carlinhos at the All-Star Game, a charity event organized by Zico, the club's greatest idol and current coach of Fenerbahce-Tur. The event will be held on the 27th at Maracanã Stadium.
Carlinhos was the team's commander in the historic victory, which represented the Rubro-Negro's fourth national championship.
"My father's wish was to take advantage of the All-Star Game to pay tribute to that Flamengo team for the 20th anniversary of winning the Brazilian Championship. Carlinhos' confirmation made us very happy, as we will even have the coach from that era in attendance. Anyone who goes to Maracanã will certainly see a beautiful spectacle and will also be able to help those in need," said Junior Coimbra, Zico's son.
Advance ticket sales for the charity event began this Monday. Tickets, which include half-price tickets for students, cost R$10 (grandstand) and R$6 (blue seats) and can be found at the CFZ headquarters in Recreio dos Bandeirantes; Flamengo headquarters in Gávea; Fluminense headquarters in Laranjeiras; and at ticket office 8 at Maracanã. All proceeds will go to charities.
The event's first match will be held at 18:30 PM (Brasília time), featuring artists. At 20:30 PM, 1987 champion Flamengo will face a team of stars. Midfielder Emerson and Dutch midfielder Seedorf, from Milan-ITA; forward Vágner Loove, from CSKA Moscow-RUS; midfielder Carlos Alberto, from Werder Bremen-GER; full-back Leonardo Moura and midfielder Ibson, from Flamengo; Japanese player Nakata; and Paraguayans Arce and Gamarra have already confirmed their attendance.
The match will be refereed by Wagner Tardelli, assisted by the controversial Ana Paula Oliveira and Maria Elisa.
BalloonSport
Gavilán is in Fla's plans
Paraguayan midfielder has not yet reached an agreement with Grêmio and is of interest to the red-black club
Eduardo Peixoto
Gavilán is in Flamengo's plans
One of the "big names" Flamengo is considering for 2008 is midfielder Gavilán. The Paraguayan was at Grêmio, but has not yet reached an agreement. His agent, José de la Cruz Benítez, has been contacted.
According to a board member, the deal was "well underway" and could be completed this week. Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, confirmed that Gavilán is a name on the Flamengo team's agenda, despite the large number of defensive midfielders on the roster.
Currently, coach Joel Santana has Kléberson, Ibson, Cristian, Leo Medeiros, Jailton, Colace, and Rômulo available for the role. Jônatas is expected to be confirmed this Wednesday.
During Marcinho's presentation, the director assured that, in addition to Jônatas and Rodrigo, Flamengo will bring in one or two other renowned players. One could be Gavilán. The other, necessarily, will be a striker.
Fla debuts in the League with victory over Minas
Rubro-negros take off at the beginning of the last period and triumph in a game at their rivals' home
With an incredible fourth-quarter surge, Flamengo ignored the home crowd and began their Basketball League of the Americas campaign with a victory. The victory over home team Minas Gerais came 99-88.
Flamengo's top scorers were Marcelinho and Hélio, with 25 points. Coloneze also shone for Flamengo, achieving a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds.
Minas led until the start of the fourth quarter, but scored just one point early in the quarter, compared to 14 for the Rio team, and was unable to recover. Johnson, the game's leading scorer with 26 points, and Soró, with 20, were the team's top scorers.
The match was in Group C of the competition. Boca Juniors, from Argentina, and Defensor, from Uruguay, complete the group. The four teams play each other this week, and the top two teams advance to the next round.
Carlinhos leads the team to the fourth
Former coach is invited to participate in Zico's big party, on the 27th, at Maracanã
Former Flamengo coach Carlinhos, who led the Red-Blacks to the 1987 Brazilian Championship title, has been invited to participate in the All-Star Game on the 27th at Maracanã, which will be hosted by Zico. The match will feature the players who won four titles with Flamengo 20 years ago.
Júnior, Zico's eldest son, was happy to have Carlinhos at the party, which will also feature Obina and Ibson.
"My father's wish was to take advantage of the All-Star Game to honor that Flamengo team for the 20th anniversary of winning the Brazilian Championship. Carlinhos' confirmation made us very happy, as we'll even have the coach from that era in attendance. Anyone who goes to Maracanã will certainly see a beautiful spectacle and will also be able to help those in need," he reveals.
Fla will have one or two more important reinforcements
This promise comes from the vice president of football, Kléber Leite. A bet should also come
Eduardo Peixoto
Marcinho has already introduced himself to Flamengo
Flamengo hopes to finalize its 2008 roster by next week. To that end, in addition to introducing Rodrigo and confirming Jônatas, the board intends to announce the signing of a maximum of three reinforcements.
Two of these new players would be "impactful" signings. One of them, a striker to form a partnership with Souza. Behind the scenes, there are two theories. The first claims the player comes from Argentine football, the other bets on Rafael Sobis, formerly of Internacional and currently a reserve for Betis in Spain.
"We'll bring in one or two more big names. And it could be a foreigner. But I'm not revealing the names under any circumstances," says Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite. He denied any interest in Sobis.
The last signing Rubro-Negro wants for the start of 2008 is considered by Kléber Leite himself to be a "gamble." He would be a young player who has excelled in the youth divisions of Brazilian soccer.
Agreement with Jônatas is in the details
The midfielder's contract with the red-black club is expected to last 18 months.
Eduardo Peixoto
Jônatas should wear the red-black shirt again
Once again, Jônatas wasn't included in an Espanyol match. But his ostracism is nearing an end. On Tuesday afternoon, a meeting in Rio de Janeiro practically decided the midfielder's return to Flamengo.
Rubro-Negro's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, vice president of finance, José Carlos Dias, and businessman Eduardo Uram had lunch and settled the contract. Apparently, Jônatas will be officially announced this Wednesday.
"Eduardo Uram plays midfield for Espanyol and is doing very well. I believe that tomorrow (Wednesday) we can share this good news with the fans," says Kléber Leite.
Flamengo considered the possibility of acquiring the player's federation rights. However, the club ultimately opted for an 18-month loan deal. The club is expected to pay €900 for the provisional transfer. Should it decide to acquire the player, this amount would be deducted.
Jônatas left Gávea after the 2006 Copa do Brasil final. However, he didn't adapt to Espanyol. Despite being praised for his technical quality, disciplinary problems prevented him from shining. Now, he returns to Brazil in search of the club that launched him.
'The fans influenced me,' says Marcinho
At the presentation to Flamengo, the supporter says he will face the biggest challenge of his career
Eduardo Peixoto
Marcinho introduces himself to Flamengo
The fans' celebrations during this year's Brazilian Championship became Flamengo's campaign campaign. Supporter Marcinho can attest to that. This Tuesday, during his official presentation in Gávea, the player credited Flamengo's supporters as a determining factor in the deal.
He was at Atlético-MG, another popular club, but he claims the red-and-black nation is special. Initially, the midfielder will remain at the club until the end of 2008, with the price of his economic rights fixed.
- The first thing that influenced me to get it right was Flamengo's magnificent fans. I want to go to Maracanã and see them.
The ceremony was attended by coach Joel Santana, vice president of football Kléber Leite, and president Márcio Braga. The latter made a point of joking with Marcinho.
"He has a huge responsibility because he has the same name as me. If he plays half as well as I did, he'll be excellent," says Márcio Braga.
At 23 years old, the supporter promises to reciprocate the president's expectations.
"I'm a player who never gives up. I fight at all times. Flamengo is strength, grit, and willpower," he assures.
Fla swaps Gérson Magrão for Leo Medeiros
The standout player in the Brazilian Serie B Championship goes to Cruzeiro, and the midfielder remains at Gávea
Eduardo Peixoto
Léo Medeiros at Flamengo training
Flamengo reached an agreement on Tuesday afternoon to retain Leo Medeiros. The club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, negotiated with Cruzeiro the exchange of 40% of Gerson Magrão's rights for 50% of Leo's rights.
The trade had been in the works for almost two months. But then other options emerged for Magrão, who had excelled in Ipatinga's Série B campaign. First, they offered him to Corinthians for Roger.\ Then, the coaching staff asked for the player's reinstatement.\
Leo Medeiros has been at Gávea since April 2006 and has always made it clear that his intention was to stay.
"I've become a Flamengo fan. Not every player stays two years at a club like that," he says. He's currently enjoying a vacation in Recreio, in the interior of Minas Gerais.
Throw
Marcinho is introduced and wins the number 10 shirt
Supporter uses modesty to say that helping Flamengo is the priority
Marcinho arrives at Gávea with star status (Credit: Paulo Wrencher)
Hugo Perruso IN RIO
Presented this Tuesday in Gávea, Marcinho spoke for the first time as a Flamengo player. The former Atlético Mineiro midfielder explained why he chose Flamengo to play for in 2008, despite having other offers.
radio l! - First, Flamengo's magnificent fans. Another reason was the board's interest. You're more motivated to wear the shirt, and I believe we'll do a great job - he said. (Click and listen)
Marcinho introduced his characteristics to fans who don't know him yet:
"I'm a player who never gives up. I'm always fighting. Until the referee blows the whistle, we'll always be looking for a result. And Flamengo demands that: strength and determination. That's what I'll try," he admitted.
The player received Zico's number 10 shirt from president Marcio Braga, but he didn't want to choose the number to play on the team:
"My concern isn't the jersey number, but rather helping Flamengo achieve victories. That's the goal I came here for. I hope to have a great season," he concluded.
Marcinho doesn't choose his position to play
Flamengo's new signing could play as a midfielder or third midfielder.
LANCEPRESS!
Marcinho, Flamengo's new signing, said in his presentation on Tuesday that he will try to help the team regardless of the position in which he is used by coach Joel Santana.
"I like playing as a midfielder. But I've played as a third midfielder before. The important thing is to do what the coach tells you and try to help Flamengo in the best way possible," he declared.
When asked about the large number of players Flamengo has in midfield, Marcinho said that this is important to keep everyone in the group motivated.
"It's always good to have competition. It makes us dedicate ourselves and train harder every day to earn a spot on the team," he assured.
César Maia wears a Flamengo shirt and sings the anthem
A Botafogo fan, the mayor was honored by the fans for having brought down the Nation
César Maia sings the Flamengo Anthem alongside Márcio Braga (Credit: Fred Gomes)
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
After having decreed the listing of Flamengo's Fan Club as Cultural Heritage of the city of Rio de Janeiro, the mayor of Rio de Janeiro, Botafogo fan Cesar Maia, was honored by the president of Flamengo, Márcio Braga, this Tuesday, at the City Palace, in Rio de Janeiro.
To the sound of "Tema da Vitória", performed by Charanga Rubro-Negra, Maia, who sang the Flamengo Anthem, was presented with the number 12 shirt, made by the fans, as well as a plaque given by the red-blacks.
"This crowd has developed an original idea of mass choreography, a mass chant. It's a unique crowd in the world. I'm from a time when a crowd's chant was the same, lasting for about 30 years. Fans had this characteristic of uniformity, standardizing celebrations, and this was broken by Flamengo's fans. I would like it to serve as an example for my fans, Botafogo's," the mayor is full of praise.
When presented with the number 12 shirt that bore his name on the back, Cesar Maia praised the design of the red-and-black shield, classifying it as something made with an optimistic perspective:
"This design is positive, optimistic. The letters are projected upwards, very positive," the mayor enthuses.
Kléber Leite promises a big name for the attack
Manager wants to announce new player for the sector next week
Kléber Leite works to bring a big name to Fla (Credit: Julio Cesar Guimarães)
LANCEPRESS!
After the arrival of defender Rodrigo, Flamengo's attack is the area most in need of reinforcements. But the board seems to know this, and vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, is working in secret to announce the signing of a big name for the attack.
"This will be another development. We have some very good options in the pipeline, but I won't mention names. If all goes well, we can announce it next week," the director stated.
Fla only has Souza, Obina, Maxi and some juniors like Paulo Sergio and Kayke.
Flamengo secures Léo Medeiros for 2008
Rubro-Negro negotiates with Ipatinga and transfers Gérson Magrão
Flamengo agreed on Tuesday to permanently retain midfielder Léo Medeiros. Flamengo made a deal with Ipatinga that included the permanent transfer of midfielder Gérson Magrão. Vice President of Football Kléber Leite spoke about the negotiations.
"Flamengo has finalized the exchange of 40% of Gérson Magrão's economic rights for 50% of Léo Medeiros's. The negotiation was made with Ipatinga. If one of the players is sold, the other club will receive 15% of the deal value," he stated.
Carlinhos will lead the four-time champion Fla team\ Former red-black coach will participate in the party on the 27th, at Maracanã\
Former Flamengo coach Carlinhos, who led the Red-Blacks to the 1987 Brazilian Championship title, has been invited to participate in the All-Star Game on the 27th at Maracanã, which will be hosted by Zico. The match will feature the players who won four titles with Flamengo.
Júnior, Zico's eldest son, was happy to have Carlinhos at the party, which will also be attended by Obina and Ibson.
"My father's wish was to take advantage of the All-Star Game to pay tribute to that Flamengo team for the 20th anniversary of winning the Brazilian Championship. Carlinhos' confirmation made us very happy, as we'll even have the coach from that era in attendance. Anyone who goes to Maracanã will certainly see a beautiful spectacle and will even be able to help those in need," revealed Júnior.
President says he wanted Kaká at Flamengo
Márcio Braga claims to be unaware of possible names for the attack
Flamengo's attack is the area most in need of reinforcements. The club's board seems to be aware of this and is working secretly to announce the signing of a new signing. President Márcio Braga once again joked about the matter on Tuesday.
"My preference is for the best players in the world to come. There's a guy named Eto'o (Barcelona), and a guy named Kaká (Milan), who was named the best in the world this Monday. I wanted him. I can't comment because the selection is made by the football department. So far, we don't know anything," the director told Rádio Brasil.
Márcio Braga celebrates reinforcements and wants Jônatas
Flamengo president considers Espanyol midfielder a star
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
Flamengo president Márcio Braga praised the club's board's efforts to strengthen the squad that led the club to the next Copa Libertadores. The remarks were made at the Palácio da Cidade, where César Maia was honored by fans and the Flamengo president. Braga also expressed his desire to see Jônatas, currently at Espanyol, return to the Flamengo jersey.
"Of course, the reinforcements have strengthened the team, which already performed very well in the Carioca and Brasileirão, especially in the second round, reaching the Libertadores. Ideally, they would have won the championship, but it was already good," he explains.
In an effort to keep the press informed about the signings, Márcio Braga transferred responsibility for the matter to Kléber Leite, whom he described as the president of football. He avoided confirming Jônatas' return but revealed his deep appreciation for the defensive midfielder.
"To my delight, they're saying that Jônatas, who is a star, is returning. He'll strengthen his ball skills in midfield," he dreams.
Rodrigo Arroz approves reinforcements at Flamengo
Defender will face competition from his namesake, former São Paulo player, next season
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo defender Rodrigo Arroz welcomes the arrival of reinforcements at Gavea. Despite the increased competition for starting spots, the Flamengo defender only sees the advantages of having more players available at the club.
radio l! - We have the Libertadores, the Carioca, and the Brazilian Championship. It's going to be a great year. It's normal to look for new names, because we need five or six defensive players to compete in the competitions - he points out. (Click and listen)
The Red-Blacks announced the signing of a 'competitor' to Arroz this Monday: Rodrigo, formerly of São Paulo and currently at Dynamo Kyiv.
Conmebol draws Libertadores groups
The event will be held at the entity's new convention center
The groups for the 49th edition of the Copa Libertadores da América will be drawn this Wednesday, at the new Convention Center of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), in Paraguay.
The new Conmebol Convention Center, built next to the organization's headquarters in the municipality of Luque, on the outskirts of Asunción, will be partially equipped to hold the draw.
Previously, Conmebol president Nicolás Leoz will preside over the Executive Committee meeting to analyze the institution's situation and review the calendar of activities for the 2008 season.
The 2008 edition of the Copa Libertadores will bring together 35 clubs from the ten countries affiliated with Conmebol, plus three from Mexico.
Among these 38 teams, twelve will compete in a preliminary phase in a knockout system to define the six teams that will advance to the group stage of the competition.
The first leg matches of this first phase are scheduled for January 30, while the return matches will be held on February 5, and the six qualified teams will join the 26 teams that will start directly in the second phase, made up of 8 groups of 4 teams each.
At this stage, the top two teams from each group will qualify and advance to the round of 16.
As happens every year, the event will have special guests to collaborate with the general secretary of Conmebol, Eduardo Deluca, in the draw.
This time, the guests present will be former Brazilian player Branco, four-time world champion and current football coordinator at Fluminense; Argentine coach Ramón Díaz, and Paraguayan players Enrique Vera and Víctor Cáceres.
The Brazilian teams São Paulo, Santos, Flamengo, Cruzeiro (these, in order, the first four placed in the Brazilian Championship) and Fluminense (champion of the Copa do Brasil) have already qualified for the next edition of the Libertadores, which from 2008 will be sponsored by Banco Santander.
Furthermore, current champion Boca Juniors, as well as fellow Argentines Estudiantes de La Plata, San Lorenzo, River Plate, Arsenal and Lanús, are guaranteed a place in the tournament.
Also ensuring their participation were Real Potosí and San José, from Bolivia; Colo Colo and Audax Italiano, from Chile; Nacional de Medellín and Cúcuta Deportivo, from Colombia; and LDU de Quito, Deportivo Cuenca and Olmedo, from Ecuador.
In addition, Chivas Guadalajara, from Mexico; Libertad, Sportivo Luqueño and Cerro Porteño, from Paraguay; Universidad San Martín, Coronel Bolognesi and Cienciano, from Peru; Danúbio, Nacional and Wanderers, from Uruguay, and Caracas, Mineros de Guayana and Unión Maracaibo, from Venezuela, are classified.
Renato's hiring should happen in May
Player, who belongs to Al Nasr, from Saudi Arabia, can return to the club
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo's legal director, Michel Asseff Filho, was tasked with traveling to Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, to try to secure the signing of Renato from Al Nasr. However, according to vice president of football Kléber Leite, the trip will likely only take place next year, and the signing is difficult.
"He (Michel) will only be there after New Year's Eve. Negotiations are very difficult. There's no way Renato will leave before May (when his contract ends)," said Kléber.
Michel, who was not reached by LANCE!, will not need to go to Türkiye to finalize the purchase of Kleberson from Besiktas.