The Globe
The yes in the arms of the fans
On a day of celebration and excitement, Joel confirms his commitment to Flamengo
EMBRACED BY Father Benedito, Joel participates in the fans' party at Corcovado, before deciding whether to stay at Fla
Márcio Tavares
It was a celebration. In Gávea, on Corcovado Mountain. All because of Joel Santana, carried in the arms of the crowd, thrown into the air, and revered even before he told the crowd he would stay at Flamengo. On a Friday of intense emotional charge, which began in the morning with the players shouting in the locker room asking for him to stay with the chant "stay, daddy," continued with the lively visit to Christ the Redeemer, and ended with the solemn "yes" at Gávea, which had already been rehearsed at Corcovado. The coach ended the saga and remains with Flamengo.
"These last 48 hours have been decisive. So much has happened, and this movement for my stay has touched me deeply. The financial aspect wasn't even that important," said Joel. "What moved me most was the fans' outpouring. This trip to the Christ statue, the players' pleas—everything influenced my decision to stay. I even had a neighbor slip a note under my door asking me to stay."
In Christ, a 'cool madness'
But Joel's decision mobilized almost all of Flamengo's football team. After the morning training session, the coach was embraced by the crowd as he went to Corcovado Mountain to participate in the celebrations organized by the fans, who carried flags, shirts, and set fire to the traditional tourist attraction. At the foot of the Christ the Redeemer statue, there was a rarely seen uproar.
The crowd was eager to hug, take photos, get autographs, or simply get close to the coach. Father Benedito, from the parish of Saint Jude Thaddeus, Flamengo's patron saint, blessed everything in sight, while the fans cheered, with Joel showing concern every time they tried to lift him.
"No, not again. Be careful, guys..." says the coach, who defined his trip to Corcovado with a meaningful phrase. "That was some crazy fun at Christ the Redeemer."
Back in Gávea, the task was easier. In an hour-long meeting with vice president of football Kleber Leite and the club's leadership, the coach decided on his situation. Looking more comfortable than the day before, Joel couldn't hide his satisfaction with the outcome.
"It was a beautiful Christmas present. I'm very happy. Of course, I feel like a special person. Before, they just beat me, now they welcome me with flowers. That's really nice."
Joel only thought it wasn't a good idea when the topic turned to coaches from Rio Grande do Sul. A topic that required Kleber Leite's intervention:
- I wanted to clarify that I haven't spoken to Mano Menezes in a while. When Joel told us he might be leaving, I spoke with Carlos Leite, Mano's attorney, and asked for priority in negotiating with him if Joel left. And I got that priority.
It was Joel's cue to say.
"I don't want the impression to be left that I'm an enemy of the Gauchos. I managed Inter and was treated very well in the South."
The topic evidently revolves around his recent disagreements with Renato Gaúcho, Fluminense's coach. Laughing, Joel also sidestepped the controversy.
"Leave Renato alone. Baby was a great student, but he doesn't even have a master's degree yet," he said, laughing.
Another subject that Joel also didn't want to delve into: the numbers involving his contract.
- My contract is neither good nor bad. It's different. It's a contract made for someone who likes to win titles like me. Nothing more.
After the deal, Joel Santana and Kleber Leite attended ESPN Brasil's year-end luncheon, held at a restaurant near the club. The coach caused another stir, enthusing Flamengo fans. Next week, when Flamengo is expected to have received all the sponsorship fees withheld by order of the Public Prosecutor's Office, Joel will begin discussing the signing of reinforcements with Kleber.
-We already have something lined up - reveals Joel, who asked for a defender, a holding midfielder, a playmaker and a striker.
Kleber says Roger is not in
Although he has reached an agreement with Corinthians on an installment plan for the $500 payment for Roger's outright purchase, Kleber Leite said yesterday that the matter is not settled. According to him, despite the agreement and the conclusion that the contract has already been renewed, the negotiation is not complete because it still depends on Joel's "yes."
"One thing has nothing to do with the other. We need to see if Joel wants him to stay. We also need to agree on the new contract, whether he accepts our principles, our proposal. It's not that simple," said Kleber Leite.
Judging by the player's record in the Brazilian Championship, the impression is that the coach is undecided. For outsiders, Roger is full of praise. But to some insiders, Joel has expressed uncertainty about the wisdom of investing in the eloquent player, who speaks like a leader, but who has shown little commitment to the cause, always claiming to be hampered by a muscle injury that no scan could detect. Despite this mistrust, Roger, without modesty, praises his importance and bets:
"I expect a productive 2008. I'm healed and I'll go in feeling refreshed. I had a good start, but injuries hampered me, but I was very important off the field. Nothing compared to what I can do and have done in football, but I made my contribution in the end."
Sports Panorama
The final party
For the first time under the points system, Rio's four major clubs could finish in the top half of the Brazilian Championship standings. What has changed in Rio de Janeiro's football scene to make this possible? The topic is interesting and parallels another equally important one: after 23 years, Rio will have two clubs in the Copa Libertadores in 2008.
Without a doubt, planning has something to do with it. It's good to see Flamengo taking a step we consider crucial for 2008 by renewing coach Joel Santana's contract. After everything that happened to the club during the eight months of the championship, it would be a negative for the board if the coach left Gávea.
No one here is under any illusions about the importance of the financial aspect. However, the outpouring of affection, even love, from the average Flamengo fan—forget the professional fan, the one who gets a living allowance to applaud top-tier executives—played a significant role in Joel's decision to stay with the club for the 2008 Libertadores.
Rio de Janeiro football hasn't suddenly changed. But it's showing signs of realizing the importance of turning the page on that shabby structure.
Maraca of Fla and Flu
Maracanã remains in Fluminense's plans. Re-elected Fluminense president Roberto Horcades will meet with his Flamengo colleague Márcio Braga in the coming days. The meeting's agenda includes putting the project on hold so that both clubs can manage the stadium starting next season. To be confirmed.
Zico & Zizou
The Brazilian Championship will end tomorrow, without any matches at Maracanã, the stadium where the red-black fans set consecutive attendance records and celebrated Flamengo's rise in the final stretch of the competition.
However, the year won't end without the red-and-black nation invading it again. And for good reason.
At the All-Star Game on the 27th, the traditional charity event organized annually by idol Zico, the main attraction will be the five-time Brazilian champion team from 1987. Remember the lineup? Zé Carlos, Jorginho, Leandro, Edinho and Leonardo; Andrade, Aílton, Zinho and Zico; Renato Gaúcho and Bebeto.
Stars are being contacted to face him, including Zidane. But Zizou hasn't confirmed anything yet.
The party even has a website {www.jogodasestrelas.com.br}.
NOTE: Winner of three Pan American medals, Jade Barbosa will be the subject of a comic book.
Sports Journal
Cristian renews until 2010
Replacing the controversial Claiton, the defensive midfielder is another who will remain at Flamengo
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
The backbone of the team, little by little, remains. Cristian renews
Yesterday afternoon was very exciting for the great red-and-black nation. Besides the renewal of coach Joel Santana, another confirmation left Flamengo fans confident and happy. Midfielder Cristian, who arrived at the club mid-year following an agreement between Flamengo and the board of Atlético Paranaense, announced that he will remain with the club until December 2010.
Cristian was swapped for the much-criticized Claiton, and to continue playing in Rio, Flamengo had to pay Furacão US$500 by yesterday, which, according to the board, happened. The player said he was very happy to renew his contract with the country's most popular team and took the opportunity to explain what he discussed with vice president of football Kleber Leite.
"Kleber said he's already deposited the money and now all that's left is for it to hit Atlético Paranaense's account. I'm staying at Flamengo until 2010 and I'm very happy. I made it clear from the beginning that this was my wish," said the defensive midfielder.
The player arrived at the club somewhat unnoticed, but quickly earned a starting spot in coach Joel Santana's squad. Cristian, who tattooed "I will always love you" on his arm in honor of his wife, but inspired by the "victory theme" of the Flamengo fans, said he expects Flamengo to have an excellent season in 2008 and is banking on the strength of the group to achieve that.
"We have a great group of players, we're united, and we've proven ourselves. When I arrived, our team was undervalued, but now we've proven we have character and a lot of potential," said Cristian, taking the opportunity to erase his reputation as a bad boy.
"When I left Atlético Paranaense, they said I was a bad boy. But at Flamengo, I was able to prove that's not the case," the player added.
Borrowed boots
Leaving Gávea yesterday, defensive midfielder Cristian was carrying a pair of green and black cleats, completely different from the ones he's been wearing in recent matches. When asked by his press officer what those cleats were, the player responded jokingly.
"These boots belong to Léo Medeiros. He left and took mine, can you believe it? Since he took mine, I'll keep his," said the player.
Maxi and Obina against Náutico in Aflitos
Top scorer Souza will be unable to participate in the team's final match of the year, having experienced renewed pain in his right ankle. Therefore, for the match against Náutico, tomorrow at 16 pm at Aflitos, coach Joel Santana confirmed the lineup, which will feature Obina in the starting attack, paired with Argentine Maxi Biancucchi.
In addition to the attacking sector, the other new additions to the team are the permanence of Léo Medeiros in the midfield and the return of midfielder Toró.
"We're going there to make a good impression in the final game of the championship. We're already in the Libertadores, but we won't relax, because we know our home crowd is huge," said Léo Medeiros.
Maxi also seemed happy with the opportunity:
"I'm ready to play. After the injury, I didn't do well, but I hope to finish the year well to fight for a starting spot next season," explained the Argentine.
Flamengo will enter the field with: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Léo Medeiros, Ibson and Toró; Maxi and Obina.
Leonardo is the first victim of the beheading
Roger does his first training session after confirming that he will continue at Gávea
Yesterday afternoon, amid all the excitement among fans and players over the renewal of coach Joel Santana's contract, one player stood out from the rest: striker Leonardo. He was very upset about having to return to Paraná in January, likely to play in the Brazilian Serie B.
Leonardo arrived at Flamengo at the beginning of this year, but a series of mysterious pains throughout the season caused the player to play little and end up being forgotten by coach Joel Santana.
"Flamengo didn't contact me, so I'll have to return to Paraná in January. I wanted to stay here, but it didn't work out," said Leonardo, who considered the long period he spent without playing as the main reason for his release.
"Unfortunately, because of my injuries, I haven't been able to play any matches this year at 100% fitness," he said.
Another one says he stays
Roger confirmed yesterday at Gávea that he will remain at Flamengo for another three years. The player said that the club's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, has reached an agreement with Corinthians.
"Thank God Flamengo showed interest and I'm very happy to remain at the club," said the player.
To keep Roger, Flamengo would have to pay US$500, but after an agreement with the São Paulo club, Flamengo's board managed to keep the player without having to pay the agreed amount, but will have to loan some athletes, or perhaps give a percentage of players to Corinthians.
Coach in the arms of the people
"(...) For Flamengo, the jersey is everything. (...) The day may come when Flamengo will no longer need players, coaches, or anything. The jersey, open at the corner, will suffice. And in the face of the opponent's impotent fury, the red-and-black jersey will be an impregnable bastion."
When he wrote a short piece about the strength of Flamengo's fans, the late Nelson Rodrigues predicted the beautiful celebration that would take place yesterday at Corcovado Mountain. Upon coach Joel Santana's arrival, the celebration was even greater.
Some fans carried Joel in their arms, and since he hadn't yet announced his stay, he heard many requests to stay at the club. A custom flag with Joel's face was even made.
"A lot has happened in the last 48 hours. A neighbor even slipped a note under my door asking me to stay. It's hard to get this kind of recognition from the fans. I thought I'd seen it all in almost 30 years of football, but I was surprised," Joel admitted.
Even exporter Renato Barros, 32, a São Paulo fan who was visiting the Christ statue at the exact moment of the celebration and was recognized by the fans, was left to question. To avoid controversy, he didn't hesitate to name the club that won the first five-time Brazilian champion.
“If I don’t say it’s Flamengo, they’ll throw me down there,” he joked.
This time he stays!
With the blessing of Christ the Redeemer, Joel Santana confirms his stay for the Libertadores
Thiago Bokel and Nathan de Lima
Wallace Teixeira
Under the watchful eyes of Christ, the Red-Black Nation carries the hero Joel in its arms
“If it is for the good of all and the general happiness of the nation, tell the people that I will stay.”
Granted, it wasn't Dom Pedro I announcing he would stay in Brazil, but the confirmation of coach Joel Santana's stay at Flamengo carried a similar weight for the country's largest fan base. After much uncertainty, he finally reached an agreement with the board and will lead the Red-Blacks in 2008.
After yesterday's recreational training session in Gávea, the players and vice-president of football Kleber Leite met for approximately 30 minutes with Joel and the coaching staff. There, they appealed for the coach to stay, and upon hearing the positive response, they celebrated as if they had scored a goal.
At the end of the conversation, the coach headed to Corcovado Mountain, where he was greeted with a standing ovation from the fans. Soon after, he returned to Gávea to finalize the details of the contract renewal. Always good-natured, Joel even said upon joining the club that it was time to speak the truth, leaving a question mark in the air. An hour later, Kleber Leite announced the coach's stay.
“With great joy, and in response to the requests of the immense crowd, I announce that Joel will continue here in 2008. We are very happy to give this great Christmas present to the fans,” celebrated the director, before denying, in the sequence, that he had contacted Mano Menezes:
"We hadn't spoken in over a year, when I approached him about signing a player. I simply asked Carlos Leite (the coach's agent) to give him priority in case Joel didn't stay," he explained.
Relieved that negotiations were over, Joel denied having insulted the people of Rio Grande do Sul and the current Grêmio coach. Another topic discussed was his salary.
"I don't like to talk about numbers. My contract isn't good or bad, it's just different, geared toward those who want to win titles. Now we'll plan where we can go. At the beginning of the week, we'll start talking about some names that interest us," the coach said.
There was even some left over for 'Baby'
In the end, it was still up to Fluminense coach Renato Gaúcho, who reportedly commented that the rivalry would now heat up:
"Let 'Baby' do his job. He's a great student, but he doesn't have a master's degree yet," the coach quipped.
Petrópolis secures a place in the final
The Serra team draws with Fla and now awaits their opponent in the final of the State Futsal Championship
The fight for the ball was intense in the semi-final match of the Adult State Futsal Championship, in Petrópolis
In a dramatic match, Flamengo and Petrópolis drew 1-1 at the UCP gymnasium. The result qualified the team from the mountains for the State Futsal Championship final. Gabriel scored for Flamengo and Cupim for Petrópolis.
Fernando Malafaia's team will now compete for its third title in the competition. The final opponent will be known on Monday, when Teresópolis and Canto do Rio face off in the mountain city.
Having won the first duel last Tuesday at the Olaria gymnasium, Petrópolis had the advantage of a draw. Aware of his team's condition, Rubro-Negro coach Cid Escarlate set his players to play a highly offensive game.
Flamengo launched an attack, opening up space for the home team to counterattack. As a result, the first half was marked by a large number of missed goals by both teams. Petrópolis came very close to opening the scoring with a penalty awarded to Jorginho. But Breno, having a great night, saved the Petropolis player's shot.
With less than two minutes to go before halftime, Flamengo opened the scoring. Gabriel, the team's top scorer in the championship, was fouled. He capped the ten-meter shot with skill, putting his team ahead.
But the Rio de Janeiro team's lead didn't last long. A minute later, Cupim was also brought down and, like Gabriel, converted his ten-meter shot.
In the second half, the red-and-black team, desperately needing a goal, pushed forward. In the final ten minutes, it was all Flamengo. But goalkeeper Douglas was inspired and prevented the opposition from scoring.
PETROPOLIS
Douglas, Régis, Cupim (1), Vinicius and Mancha. Entered: Pelé, Bruninho, Tiago, Formiga and Jorginho\ Coach: Fernando Malafaia\
FLAMENGO
Breno, Dudu, Michel, Panázio and Sixel. Entered: Rafael, Magrão, Charles, Gabriel (1), Otávio and Antony\ Coach: Cid Escarlate.\
Location: UCP Gymnasium, in Petrópolis
John Areosa
Complete feijoada with Joel for dessert
Everything is fine between Flamengo and Joel Santana. Mano Menezes, God be praised, was a shot in the dark and I believe that at no point did Flamengo have any intention of bringing him to Gávea. Did the threat of this signing serve any purpose? Perhaps it served as a pressure tool to expedite Joel Santana's response. No, I wasn't at the Gávea headquarters to follow the events of this cloudy Friday, November 11th. But I was nearby, at the Gato Pardo restaurant (about 500 meters from the club), participating in the lively feijoada organized by ESPN Brasil to celebrate the two-year anniversary of the Rio branch's inauguration. Cold draft beer, perfectly cooked beans, and then, around three in the afternoon, Joel Santana and Kleber Leite appeared, smiling broadly and sharing the good news. Sitting at a communal table, this columnist learned about the latest developments, along with his press colleagues José Trajano, Fernando Calazans, José Gerheim, Marcio Guedes, and Marilene Dabus. It's what you might call a piece of cake. And before you ask, let me tell you: Kleber and Joel limited themselves to drinking Coca-Cola and nothing more.
Ruy Fernando
The red-black nation!!!
The red-and-black fans breaking the Brazilian Championship attendance record, three days before the match against Santos, in a Libertadores qualifying match, is sensational, but it's not everything. I've witnessed feats as impressive, if not more so. My experiences during the period when I had the honor of covering Flamengo for Rádio Globo are fantastic: In 3, the team was playing a friendly match on Parintins Island, in the Amazon River, against the local national team. Upon landing, the two Bandeirantes planes carrying the delegation were surrounded on the runway by hundreds of fans eager for an autograph from their favorite player. On the short bus ride between the tiny airport and the cramped inn, the players were greeted as if everyone on the island were Flamengo fans. And, look! I still have my doubts to this day that they really weren't. At game time—in this case, just a detail—the tiny stadium was teeming with nearly the entire population present. In the Champions League tournaments held in the Northeast, it was cowardice. Palmeiras, São Paulo, and Corinthians had the opportunity to experience the strength of Flamengo's fans up close outside of Rio. In 1992, in the final matches against São Paulo in Maceió and João Pessoa, Flamengo fans, without exaggeration, represented more than 2001% of the fans in the stadiums. To make a long story short, I saw Flamengo fans make up the absolute majority at Canindé Stadium in a match against Portuguesa, proving that they, and not Lusa, have the fifth-largest fan base in the capital of the state of São Paulo. I've long said that Flamengo is a national, and perhaps even a global, club. It's not parochialism, but for the São Paulo media to be able—and I don't know if they will—to direct the majority of young Brazilians toward a São Paulo passion, it might take another century.
O Dia
Flamengo: 'If the people want it, I'll stay'
At the feet of Christ and in the midst of the crowd, the redeemer Joel confirmed his permanence
Janir Junior
Rio - Joel Santana is Flamengo's savior. Yesterday morning, at the foot of Christ the Redeemer, upon confirming he would stay with the club in 2008, the coach showed that, if the statue is one of the new seven wonders of the world, he is a source of Flamengo pride. Surrounded, hugged, disheveled, cheered, and lifted by 250 fans, Joel became a tourist attraction and, with his heart racing, promised to visit another location at the end of next year: Yokohama, Japan.
Moved, Joel instituted 'stay day.' "Nobody can handle it. If the people want me to, I'll stay. In fact, I haven't considered leaving. I've never seen anything like this outpouring of affection from fans and players in my life. Sometimes, in life, the financial aspect isn't the most important thing," Joel stated.
Then, the coach planned for greater heights: "Arigatô, Flamengo. Let's go to the Libertadores and Japan together." The coach descended from the Cristo Redentor statue straight to Gávea. At the club, after an hour-long meeting with Kléber Leite, vice president of football, he signed a one-year contract. "We're so happy. We got a great Christmas present," said the manager.
Upon arriving at Christ the Redeemer, Joel heard the crowd shouting 'Stay, Joel' and the song 'Oh, Kléber Leite, don't make things up; Joel Santana is the best for the nation'.
The coach heaped praise on the fans and emphasized the importance of the support from the stands in helping the team escape relegation and return to the top spots. "We made a pact of love with the fans, a union of sweat and a lot of passion," he said.
Overweight, Joel Santana struggled to be lifted by the fans. Wearing sunglasses, he donned a fan cap, received gifts, and, albeit awkwardly, sang the anthem, twirled his shirt, and at one point, expressed concern. The reason: he had just lost a quarter, which, despite all the commotion, he managed to retrieve, joking, "Wow, it's the bus fare."
But in 2008, Flamengo wants to be more valuable, and it really wants to make stops on flights from the Libertadores to the World Cup final in Japan. "When they called me, no one wanted to come.
"Now, my time has come," said the coach, who received a banner from the fans with his caricature and the phrase "Thanks Joel." He promised to display it in his living room. Joel Santana is enjoying his redemptive moment, but aware that, at Flamengo, the coach can also be taken for Christ.
NO ENEMY IN THE WAY
Under Military Police guidance, the motorcade carrying fans from Gávea to Christ the Redeemer did not pass in front of Vasco's nautical headquarters in Lagoa. However, along the route, which began at 9:55 a.m. and ended at 10:58 a.m., there were scenes of lovemaking, provocations toward rivals, and some unusual incidents.
A huge Styrofoam hand, with five fingers representing the five-time Brazilian championship, broke midway and ended up becoming what no red-and-black fan wants: the fourth. At Christ the Redeemer, a repair was made and the finger reattached.
Carlos Alvarenga, of Urubuzada, and José Carlos Peruano, of Urubu Guerreiro, organized the motorcade. A sound truck played the anthem and announced goals. From a Kombi van, fans sang nonstop, mocked Vasco, and were greeted from the windows with waves.
At Cosme Velho, when they came across a Vasco fan and his young daughter, they simply joked around. At Christ the Redeemer, a tour guide asked if it was President Lula's entourage, who was also in Rio yesterday.
The fans spread the enormous number 12 shirt at the feet of Christ, but soon had to roll up the flag as tourists and fans stepped on it.
Father Benedito, a card-carrying Flamengo fan and former parish priest of the Church of Saint Jude Thaddeus, blessed and gave Joel a big hug.
American Mary Still asked: “What's this?” And heard from a Flamengo fan: “This is Flamengo.”
Souza is ruled out for the match against Náutico
Rio - Striker Souza is out of the match against Náutico in Recife, in the final round of this year's Brazilian Championship. The player was ruled out by the club's medical department due to pain in the Achilles tendon of his right leg. As a result, Obina and Maxi will be the starting players for the red-and-black attack.
In their final training session before departing for Recife, the players participated in a lively game of football. Coach Joel Santana, who confirmed this Friday that he will remain with the club for 2008, will field the following players for Flamengo: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Cristian, Leo Medeiros, Ibson, and Toró; Maxi and Obina.
Sports Gazette
Joel keeps his word and signs a new contract with Flamengo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - As promised, after participating in a motorcade with fans, this Friday morning, coach Joel Santana renewed his contract with Flamengo until December 2008. The agreement was reached after a meeting with Vice President of Football Kléber Leite, but the amount was not disclosed. "The fans' support for his stay was crucial in his decision to stay at Gávea," the coach said after the meeting. Joel said he "never saw so many people mobilized in favor of a professional staying at a club." He said that written appeals were slipped under his door, and this ultimately influenced his decision. Fans who were present at the club for the confirmation promised the coach that he would receive a club flag with his face engraved on it as recognition for his work leading the team in 2007.
Kléber Leite considered the contract signing a Christmas present from the club to the fans who were hoping Joel would stay. He explained the recent news reports that Mano Menezes was a potential Flamengo coach if the current coach didn't stay.
Leite revealed that he hasn't spoken to Mano in a long time but confessed to having contacted the former Grêmio coach's agent to discuss a possible deal if Joel were to leave the club. For Kléber, Mano behaved commendably throughout the process and is a prospect who will have an open door at Gávea.
Also thrilled with Joel's stay was midfielder Kleberson, who arrived at the red-black club in September, but will only be able to play in 2008. For the five-time world champion midfielder, it was the coach who taught him to love Flamengo and today he feels completely integrated into the club and with the fans.
Joel announces his stay at Flamengo in 2008\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Coach Joel Santana will lead Flamengo in the 2008 Libertadores Cup campaign. After participating in a parade to Christ the Redeemer, organized by the fans on Friday morning and even singing songs mocking Vasco, the club that introduced him to soccer, the coach guaranteed that he will continue to manage the red-and-black team.\ According to Joel, the affection the fans showed him moved him to the decision. The manager had questioned his continued stay at Gávea, claiming that he had received a great offer from a club abroad.\
In an interview broadcast by TV Globo, Joel stated that it is not yet time to abandon ship, as the fans “lived with him this wonderful dream of qualifying and will go along with him to win the Libertadores.”
“Who knows, maybe we’ll go to Tokyo together?” said an excited Joel, who was going to talk to the board to confirm his wish.
Léo Medeiros, Toró and Obina selected for the 'good memory' game\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo is set for next Sunday's match against Náutico, at 16 pm (Brasília time), at Aflitos, in Recife (PE), in the final round of the Brazilian Championship. The Rio de Janeiro club is third with 61 points and is already assured of a spot in the next Copa Libertadores, but a victory against the Pernambuco team, combined with a Santos stumble against Fluminense, at Vila Belmiro, will give the Rio de Janeiro team the runner-up spot. In the first round, the two teams faced each other at Maracanã, and the game ended in a 2-1 victory for Flamengo, with goals from Fábio Luciano and Leonardo Moura, the latter in the 42nd minute of the second half. The match marked the beginning of Flamengo's comeback in the current Brazilian Championship, as the team found itself in the relegation zone. "We have good memories of that match, because we needed to win at all costs and we did; it was very important," commented goalkeeper Bruno.
For this match, coach Joel Santana will be without defensive midfielder Jaílton and midfielder Renato Augusto, who received their third yellow cards in the 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR and will be suspended. Léo Medeiros will replace him, and Toró will return after being suspended against Furacão. Striker Souza will be rested due to right hamstring pain. Obina will replace him.
Thus, the formation that will take to the field this Sunday will be the following: Bruno, Léo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Cristian, Leo Medeiros, Toró and Ibson; Maxi and Obina
Flamengo agrees to keep Roger for three years\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, met with Corinthians president Andrés Sanchez on Thursday night at their Gávea headquarters and agreed to keep midfielder Roger at the Rio de Janeiro club for the next three years. The information was released by the Flamengo executive, who invited his Corinthians colleague to attend a Flamengo board meeting. The two clubs are negotiating future partnerships. How Corinthians will be compensated for the loan of the midfielder, who was made available at Parque São Jorge by coach Paulo César Carpegiani, has not yet been determined. However, there is a possibility that Flamengo will loan some players to Corinthians.
"The relationship between the two clubs is excellent, and I'm delighted with the president of Corinthians. They will certainly be compensated for Roger's situation, as he's a player we've really enjoyed this season," said Kléber Leite.
Roger was happy with the possibility of staying longer at Flamengo and hopes for a better 2008, having spent part of the current season out of action. "Flamengo is a great club to work for, with competent people and a passionate fan base. I'm happy with this situation and hope to have a much better XNUMX with Flamengo, helping the team win the Copa Libertadores."
So far, of the players with contracts until the end of this year, Flamengo's board has agreed to renew the contracts of Roger, Argentine midfielder Hugo Colace, left-back Juan, and defender Fábio Luciano. The club also informed Atlético-PR, which owns midfielder Cristian's federation rights, that it will deposit the necessary amount to acquire the player's transfer rights in December.
Now, the main goal is to secure the continued presence of goalkeeper Bruno, who is on loan to the club until the end of this year and whose federation rights are tied to MSI, the investment fund that managed Corinthians' football department. Flamengo officials are formulating a proposal to purchase the federation rights of the athlete, who is deeply identified with the fans.
Furthermore, the club will look to sign key reinforcements for next season. Some names are beginning to be rumored behind the scenes at Gávea, but the board only wants to make a statement once the players have signed contracts, to avoid rumors.
PeléNet
Joel Santana says "yes" and renews his contract with Flamengo
Raphael Raposo\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Joel Santana is staying with Flamengo for another season. The confirmation was given this Friday by vice president of football Kleber Leite. Before making the decision, the director met with the Flamengo coach for about an hour and a half.
"Our coach will stay on for next season. Therefore, we have fulfilled another wish of the red-and-black nation. Joel Santana's permanence is a Christmas present to ensure we have an excellent 2008," he said.
Earlier, before meeting with Kleber Leite, Joel Santana, along with fans, went to Christ the Redeemer to give thanks for Flamengo's qualification to the Libertadores. At the tourist attraction, the coach was already signaling that he would stay.
"We're going to the Libertadores together and maybe even reach the Club World Cup. I'm going to meet with the directors and it'll be a quick conversation. There's no drama with me," he said.
If Natalino, with inquiries from Japanese, European and United Arab Emirates football, did not reach an agreement with Flamengo, the red-black board was already looking at Mano Menezes, who will not continue at Grêmio next season.
Also on Friday, Joel Santana led a training session at Gávea Stadium. On Sunday, the Rubro-Negro team faces Náutico at 16 p.m. (Brasília time) at Aflitos Stadium, in the 38th and final round of the Brazilian Championship.
Joel Santana is in his fourth stint at Flamengo and made his debut against Santos on August 5th, with a 3-0 defeat. During this period, in 136 games under his command, the team has 77 wins, 35 draws and 24 losses, with 230 goals for and 133 against.
Souza is another absence for Flamengo against Náutico
Raphael Raposo\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo striker Souza is yet another absentee for the match against Náutico, on Sunday at 16 pm (Brasília time), at Aflitos, in the final round of the Brazilian Championship. He is suffering from a right Achilles tendon injury and will be replaced by Obina, although the fans' favorite was rested for Friday morning's training session at Gávea.
Souza is one of Flamengo's top scorers in the competition, alongside left-back Juan and defensive midfielder Ibson. The three have scored six goals.
The other two starters who won't play in Recife are midfielder Jailton and midfielder Renato Augusto, who are suspended after receiving their third yellow card in the 2-0 victory over Atlético-PR last Sunday. Léo Medeiros and Argentine Maxi Biancucchi will be in the lineup, respectively.
Even though he hasn't made his debut yet, Fla's midfielder considers himself Joel's "son"
Raphael Raposo\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Even without having played a single match for Flamengo, Kleberson has shown himself to be captivated by Joel Santana's charisma. Despite receiving neither reprimands nor praise from the coach, the midfielder already considers himself one of the Flamengo manager's "children."
"Like many here, I also consider myself Joel's son. He has proven that he is a great coach and will help us a lot in the Copa Libertadores da América," the player emphasized.
Like midfielder Cristian, Kleberson also made a point of highlighting his love for the Gávea club's fans.
"Everyone told me Flamengo's fans were huge, but I never imagined they were this big. It's truly unbelievable, I've never seen anything like it. They were fundamental to Flamengo's rise in the Brazilian Championship," Kleberson asserted.
Joel meets with Fla's board on Tuesday to discuss reinforcements
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
After agreeing to keep Joel Santana as Flamengo's coach, the Flamengo board will meet with the coach next Tuesday to discuss, among other matters, reinforcements for 2008. The intention in Gávea is to form a team capable of competing to win the Copa Libertadores da América.
Joel Santana renewed his contract with Fla and will command the team until the end of 2008
Regarding new faces, Flamengo's management is evasive. Reports from Santos, however, suggest that defender Adaílton, a longtime desire of the management, had received an offer from Flamengo, a move immediately denied by vice president of football Kleber Leite.
"We'll only discuss signings starting Tuesday. No good player is ruled out, and Adaílton is a good player. Flamengo showed interest at the beginning of the year, but we're not discussing anything related to reinforcements at the moment. We'll only discuss signings starting Tuesday, when we'll meet with Joel," Kleber reiterated to UOL Esporte.
The Santos defender, whose federation rights are tied to Rennes-FRA, told Diário do Litoral that a manager had received a call from a club official expressing interest in signing him. Adaílton's contract with Santos expires in December, and the player claims to wish to renew with the Santos club.
BalloonSport
Fla plays a 'semi-friendly' match against Náutico
Rubro-Negro tries to escape the Pre-Libertadores against a rival guaranteed in the First Division
Maxi starts this Sunday
Náutico and Flamengo achieved their goals in the penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship. This indicates that the match between the two teams, this Sunday at 16 p.m. in Aflitos, will be just a fixture. Right? Maybe so, but the red-and-blacks still have to fend off two possibilities that displease their fans: runner-up and the potential need to play in the Libertadores Cup.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be following the match in Real Time from 15:50 pm, and TV Globo will broadcast live only to Rio de Janeiro.
All week, Flamengo fans have been urging their players to avoid second place, as that position is associated with rival Vasco. But it's worth noting that if Flamengo moves up, its prize money will also increase.
"I want to stay in the Libertadores, in the best possible position. Whatever comes is a bonus," declares coach Joel Santana.
In third place with 61 points, the Rio de Janeiro team could lose its direct spot in the Copa Libertadores if it loses and Palmeiras thrashes Atlético-MG in São Paulo. If this combination of results occurs, Flamengo will have to advance to the Copa Libertadores.
Lance\ Acosta is the star of the Recife team\
This Sunday's opponent is always mentioned in Gávea because it was against Náutico that the Rubro-Negro, then in 19th place, began their push for the Libertadores. On that occasion, Leonardo Moura scored late to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory.
Game? What game?
However, the week at Gávea was a time of partying. It didn't even feel like there was a game left. There was much more talk about contract renewals—Joel, Bruno, Roger, Cristian—than about the possibility of the game harming the red-and-blacks in 2008.
"But we're not going to play games. Fans who go to the stadium will see a strong Flamengo team looking for victory," says defender and captain Fábio Luciano.
Flamengo will be without Jailton and Renato Augusto, who are suspended, and Souza, who is injured. Leo Medeiros, Maxi, and Obina will be the substitutes, respectively.
In 15th place, with 46 points, Náutico is free from the threat of Série B. Alvirrubro lost to Figueirense, 2-0, but managed to stay in the First Division thanks to the defeats of Corinthians (to Vasco, at Pacaembu) and Goiás (to Atlético-MG, at Mineirão).
Timbu can no longer even dream of a spot in the Copa Sudamericana. However, Náutico's farewell to its fans will be marked by celebration, as coach Roberto Fernandes' team managed to escape relegation to the Segunda Division.
Timbu coach Roberto Fernandes praised the team for remaining in the Brazilian football elite after Wednesday's match:
"Worse than the sadness of defeat is the shame of not fighting. And this team fought hard. Congratulations to everyone," he celebrated.
Fla confirms Joel's permanence
After a meeting in Gávea, the board officially names the coach for 2008.
The Flamengo nation breathes a sigh of relief. After a very short but highly controversial "miniseries," coach Joel Santana announced during a fan visit to Christ the Redeemer on Friday morning that he will remain at Gávea next season. Hours later, the coach met with Flamengo's board of directors and finalized the final details of his contract.
Joel arrived at Gávea, as usual, enigmatic. He said he would meet with the board for five minutes and "tell the truth." The five minutes turned into more than 60. But the suspense ended with the words of Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite: "Our coach is staying for another year. We're very happy. We got a great Christmas present."
Stay, Daddy Joel
With his ego boosted after the "Stay, Joel" campaign, the coach said he feels important. Mainly because of the support he's received from the fans and the red-and-black players. He even received a card under his door.
"I've never seen such a strong movement to keep a coach. Above all, the players. Sometimes the financial aspect isn't the most important thing," says Joel Santana.
Before learning of the coach's decision, the players gathered with him in the locker room and, in unison, made the request: "Stay, Daddy Joel." They convinced him.
Cristian: 'I'll stay at Fla until 2010'
Midfielder says club paid $500 to Atlético-PR and is thrilled with staying
Eduardo Peixoto
Cristian fulfills his promise to his daughter
Flamengo announced on Tuesday that it had finalized Cristian's contract renewal. This Friday, the player officially confirmed that he will stay at Gávea for another three years. According to him, Flamengo deposited the $500 corresponding to his economic rights into Atlético-PR's account.
"Kléber told me he made the payment. I'm staying at Flamengo until 2010 and I'm very happy. From the beginning, I made it very clear that this was my wish," the player states.
He arrived at Mengão in July and quickly became a regular. His connection with the fans was another positive factor. Cristian tattooed "I will always love you" on his arm in honor of his wife, but inspired by the "victory theme" of the red-and-black fans.
Sanches explains agreement with Flamengo
Corinthians President explains how the partnership for marketing contracts will work
Marcel Rizzo
President Andrés Sanches at Congonhas Airport
Andrés Sanches was in Rio de Janeiro this Thursday at a Flamengo event. He began negotiating a marketing deal with the Rio de Janeiro club, directly with president Márcio Braga. The clubs with the country's two largest fan bases will now negotiate jointly...
"It'll be a great thing for both teams. We'll find someone interested in sponsoring and negotiate together. See what they can offer the two most popular clubs in the country. We'll have much more leverage to secure better contracts," explains Sanches.
This agreement, according to him, is still being drawn up, but the idea is to begin working as early as early 2008, with Corinthians remaining in Serie A or being relegated to Serie B. He gave an example: Corinthians needs to renew its shirt sponsorship with Samsung, for example, until the end of 2008. Flamengo would participate and could also receive funds for having the company as a partner. And Corinthians could do the same in Flamengo's negotiations with Petrobras.
"Will it work? I don't know. But it's something different that we're going to put into practice. A way to try to raise more money," says Sanches.
Initially, a player swap or exchange is ruled out. But, according to the Corinthians president, this is already happening. Take Roger. The midfielder is expected to stay with Flamengo until 2010. Sanches only questions the document in which the Rio de Janeiro club must pay Corinthians US$500 to keep Roger, signed before he took over in October.
"Roger can't play for Corinthians anymore, because of the climate. And the salary is high. He could even leave for free and it would be a good deal for Corinthians," says Sanches.
Futsal: Fla draws and says goodbye to the State Championship
Petrópolis, which won the first game of the series, faces Teresópolis or Canto do Rio in the final
Flamengo drew 1-1 with Petrópolis this Friday at their opponent's home ground and is eliminated from the Rio de Janeiro State Futsal Championship. Gabriel scored the goal for the Rubro-Negro and Cupim equalized for the team from the mountains.
Petrópolis, which won the first game of the series 1-0, could only hope for a draw and is now qualified for the final. The team awaits the final of the other semifinal, between Teresópolis and Canto do Rio, to find out who their opponent will be.
Away from home, Flamengo beats Macaé
The team finishes the qualifying phase in first place and faces Liga Macaense in the semi-finals.
Flamengo traveled to Macaé this Friday to face Liga Macaense in the final qualifying match of the Rio de Janeiro Men's Basketball Championship. The team from Gávea struggled to defeat the home team 101-99. The top scorers in the match were Flamengo's forwards Marcelinho and Liga's Leandro, both with 32 points.
Click here and check out the table for the final stage of the Rio State Championship!\ With this result, Flamengo has 27 points (13 wins and only one loss) and finished in first place in the first stage. Now, the Rubro-negro faces the Liga Macaense itself in the semifinals of the State Championship, as tonight's opponent finished in fourth place, with 23 goals (9 wins and 5 losses).\
Vasco and Fluminense will play in the other semifinal. The Colina team finished second with 26 points (12 wins and 2 losses), and the Laranjeiras team finished third with 23 (9 wins and 5 losses)—the same number of points as the Macaé League. However, Fluminense had the advantage in points from their head-to-head matchup with Macaé.
Semifinals:
Flamengo (1st) x Macaense League (4th)
Vasco (2nd) x Fluminense (3rd)
Fla says goodbye to Gávea in 2007
Players leave the club laden with bags. Re-matches will be in January.
Eduardo Peixoto
Injured, Souza does not face Náutico and only returns to Gávea in January 2008
Bags in hand and "Merry Christmas" greetings galore. Flamengo still has one more game in 2007, but this Friday the players said goodbye to Gávea.
The delegation leaves for Recife on Saturday morning and will be released immediately after the match against Náutico. As a result, some players have already been granted vacation time, such as Souza, Renato Augusto, and Jaílton.
"I'm going to spend the end of the year in Rio with my family. I hope 2008 is positive," says Souza.
Club employees received gifts from some athletes, like Cristian. Others were in a farewell mood. Striker Leonardo was one of them. His contract expires at the end of this year, and Flamengo has no interest in renewing it.
The players' return is scheduled for January 3rd in Gávea. Two days later, the team will travel to Granja Comary in Teresópolis.
Throw
It's official: Joel signs with Flamengo
Coach stays at the club until the end of the 2008 season
Joel says the fans' demonstration was incredible
After coach Joel Santana confirmed he would renew his contract with Flamengo, he actually signed the contract, which runs until 2008, following a meeting with Kleber Leite (the club's vice president of football) at Gávea. The main reason the coach agreed to his renewal was the outpouring of support from Flamengo fans.
radio l! - I've never seen so much mobilization for a coach to stay. The fans' demonstration also had a big impact. They even put a piece of paper under my door. I feel like a very special person. I thought I'd seen it all in football, but I was wrong - he comments. (Click and listen)
After next Sunday's game against Náutico, in Aflitos, Joel will receive a flag with his face drawn on it from the fans.
Midfielder Cristian signs with Flamengo until 2010
But the player's permanence for this period is uncertain.
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo deposited US$500 into Atlético-PR's account – an amount equivalent to half of the economic rights – to have Cristian until 2010. However, reports indicate that Flamengo knew of an offer from abroad that was coming in and, therefore, rushed to acquire 50% of the athlete (the deadline is December 31st).
Therefore, it's not certain that the midfielder will stay at Gávea for the stipulated period. But if negotiations with a foreign club do happen, at least Flamengo would also benefit.
Since joining Flamengo in July, Cristian has made no secret of his happiness at remaining with the club. He and his family are adapting to Rio de Janeiro and are amazed by the grandeur and intensity of Flamengo's fans.
"I'm very happy to be staying at Flamengo. It's a club that really projects you nationally. It's also good because my wife really likes Rio," he admitted.
Joel Santana confirms his stay at Fla
Coach gets excited and guarantees he will take the team to the Club World Cup
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
The mystery is over. Coach Joel Santana confirmed this Friday morning that he will remain with Flamengo in 2008. The Flamengo manager is still projecting a winning year ahead and guarantees he will compete in the Club World Cup next year.
"2008 will be better than 2007 in Tokyo. There's no way it won't be. There's no problem on my part. I just have to listen to the board. I'm going to Gávea to resolve this," said Joel.
The coach was warmly celebrated by the fans upon his arrival at Christ the Redeemer, in the motorcade organized by the red-and-blacks. Joel's excitement was so great that he even sang songs mocking Vasco. The fans even presented him with a flag.
Leonardo will not continue at Flamengo
But the striker says it's unlikely he'll sign with Botafogo.
LANCEPRESS!
Signed on loan at the beginning of the year from Paraná, striker Leonardo had a season full of injuries and will return to Tricolor paranaense in January.
Coveted by Botafogo, he says it's unlikely he'll be released by Paraná, unless he's bought by Glorioso.
"Paraná won't want to loan me to Botafogo, they just want to sell me. I have no hard feelings toward Flamengo. I've had a lot of injuries here," he declared.
Fábio Luciano fixed up the red-black defense
Flamengo only conceded 19 goals in the 21 games the captain played
LANCEPRESS!
The distrust of Flamengo's defense had been lingering for years, with the board and coaching staff failing to address the club's defensive problems. But in August of this year, Kléber Leite made the right move by signing experienced defender Fábio Luciano.
Upon his arrival, he wasn't unanimously approved, as some didn't know if the defender was the same speed and accuracy he had been at Corinthians. In his debut against Naútico, he showed he wasn't quite as fast, but he was still as accurate and brilliant, scoring the equalizer and starting Flamengo's comeback to 2-1.
The numbers don't lie: in the 21 games the Flamengo captain played, the team only conceded 19 goals. In the 16 games the defender didn't play in the Brazilian Championship, the Flamengo defense conceded 28 goals.
Joel believes in a better 2008 season\ Coach says the team already has a base, it just needs some reinforcements\
Coach Joel Santana confirmed his commitment to Flamengo this Friday and is already thinking about the 2008 season, when the club will compete in the Copa Libertadores. According to the coach, the Rubro-Negro's performance next season is set to be better than this year's.
"We'll be able to work calmly next season. We can choose the players, train, and we have a good core team; we just need to strengthen some positions," the coach told Rádio Globo.
Souza: 'Euros still don't seduce me'
Player is fully focused on the 2008 season at Flamengo
Scorer of decisive goals for Flamengo this season, such as those in the Taça Rio final against Madureira and those in the State Championship final against Botafogo, striker Souza revealed that he is not considering leaving Flamengo for football abroad, at least for now:
"The euros still don't appeal to me. My interest is to stay here, and that's already been decided. I'm fine and happy at the club. I haven't had any problems."
Regarding the team's future, he indicates what should be done and what difficulties the Rubro-Negro will face in 2008.
"Next year will be a very demanding year. I need to take good care of myself during the holidays to start 2008 well. It's important to maintain the foundation. The team has quality and will certainly compete for titles. The first goals are to win the Carioca and fight for the Libertadores title. Being the top scorer in this competition is a dream that can come true," said the player.
Rubro-Negros provoke rival teams
Fans went to Corcovado to celebrate their place in the Libertadores
Fred Gomes RIO DE JANEIRO
This Friday, Flamengo fans went to the Christ the Redeemer statue to give thanks and celebrate their place in the Copa Libertadores. The Flamengo fans sang songs of love for the club and mocked their rivals, as in the song for their rival Fluminense, also guaranteed in the biggest South American competition: "Fluminense has no tradition... In the Libertadores they will be eliminated by my Mengão."
Another club that didn't go unnoticed by Flamengo fans was Vasco. The lyrics "Cry, Vasco fan, the dream is over, I'm the one who's going to the Libertadores" were sung by everyone, including coach Joel Santana.
Shouts of "stay Joel" and the victory theme were also remembered.
Midfielder Rômulo will not have a vacation at Flamengo
Rubro-Negro player will treat right knee injury
Midfielder Rômulo will be the only Flamengo player who won't be taking a vacation. This is because he will continue to receive treatment for a right knee injury. He has already completed physical therapy and will begin strength training sessions.
Rômulo suffered a ruptured ligament in his right knee in the classic against Vasco, on October 18, in the Brazilian Championship.
Michel Asseff Jr. is honored by Flamengo fans
Court victories have left lawyers with high morale among fans
The court victories, which spared Souza and Obina from heavy penalties and allowed Flamengo fans to attend the match against Atlético Paranaense, earned lawyer Michel Asseff Filho a tribute from the Flamengo fans. He received a personalized shirt with the inscription: "Michel Assef, lawyer of a nation, thank you."
Happy with the recognition, the lawyer promised even more commitment next year:
"Once again, I thank the nation for the warm tribute. Next year it will continue. I am prepared for any court appearances from both Brazil and CONMEBOL."