The Globe
Jônatas says he returns to Fla more mature and in high spirits
Supporter admits mistakes in Spain but says he doesn't arrive from the bottom
JÔNATAS: SUPPORTER returns to Flamengo after a year and a half in Spain, ready to restore his prestige
Márcio Tavares
A lesson learned to avoid the mistakes of the recent past. It is with this feeling that Jônatas will be rejoining Flamengo next week. Repatriated by the red-and-black club after lengthy negotiations, the midfielder had his release signed yesterday by Espanyol, of Barcelona, and returns to the club that brought him to Spain, certain that the year and a half he spent in Spain was a period of growth, much more personal than professional.
Jônatas was loaned by Espanyol to Flamengo for a year and a half and knows that he returns with a responsibility as great as the one he had when he left the Rio de Janeiro team for the Spanish one.
"I'm happy to be returning to Flamengo, where I had some great moments. I know the responsibility is great, and I'll try to help my teammates. But everyone who plays for Flamengo has their own strengths. Combining each one's strengths can make a great team," says Jônatas.
Conmebol official says club could be punished
When he went to Spain, the atmosphere at Gávea was turbulent. The group of players was divided, the fans couldn't accept coach Ney Franco and didn't take his departure well. On the day of his return to the club, Jônatas confessed that he made some mistakes in Spain and believes the maturity that came from those mistakes can help him in his new cycle at the club.
"I had trouble establishing myself there because of some of my actions, I can't deny that. But I'm not coming back down. I'm happy, excited, and I see the problems I faced there as a learning experience so I don't make the same mistakes again. Flamengo trusted me, made a huge sacrifice to bring me in, and I have to meet their expectations responsibly," he stated.
To regain his status as a star midfielder for Flamengo, Jônatas knows he'll have to work hard. From afar, he followed the team's struggles in the Brazilian Championship. And he credited his old teammate Ibson and Joel Santana for the team's dramatic turnaround in the competition.
"When Ibson found his rhythm again and readapted to the Brazilian league style, Flamengo's performance improved. I'm at a loss for words about Joel. He's a great person, a great professional who captivates me with the way he works with the players, always talking to everyone and encouraging them."
Jônatas is expected to be presented on the 26th or 27th. Paraguayan Gavilán's presentation, scheduled for the 26th, was postponed to allow him more honeymoon time, as he is getting married today in Paraguay. Until then, Flamengo is trying to sign a striker with different characteristics than Souza.
Another concern is the arm wrestling with the South American Confederation (CONMEBOL) because of the games at altitudes above 2.750 meters: the red-black team could have as its opponent in Group 4 of the Libertadores Cienciano, from Cuzco, a city at 3.400 meters, if the Peruvian team eliminates Wanderers, from Uruguay, in the preliminary round of the Libertadores.
After Flamengo admitted the possibility of losing the match by default for refusing to play in Cuzco the day before yesterday, CONMEBOL issued a statement through Hildo Nejar, one of its representatives in Brazil. Nejar said that any club that took such action would be fined US$100 (US$10 to the organization and US$90 to the local team) and would be excluded from the next three editions of the Copa Libertadores. He added that a default loss is considered a 3-0 loss against the away team.
However, the regulations, published on CONMEBOL's official website, never mention a straightforward penalty for a team missing a match. In chapters 18.1 to 18.3 of Article 18, the organization states that any absence will be analyzed by the Executive Committee.
"We have powerful weapons in this fight," said vice president of football Kleber Leite. "We are relying on an opinion from the CBF and FIFA itself."
To avoid controversy, CONMEBOL will send a request to FIFA for a definitive statement. Until this happens, Bolivian President Evo Morales will continue to defend games in La Paz, at an altitude of 4.000 meters. Morales announced that he will ask Pelé and Maradona for support in persuading FIFA to reconsider its decision to ban national team matches at altitudes above 2.750 meters. He also threatens to appeal to the UN and other international organizations.
FLAMENGO ELIMINATED
Without Marcelinho, who was suspended, Flamengo lost to Uruguay's Defensor 79-75 on Thursday in Belo Horizonte, and was eliminated from the Basketball League of the Americas. Minas and Defensor advanced to the round of XNUMX.
STATE ROWING
Leading the State Rowing Championship with 250 points, Flamengo can clinch the championship title today, starting at 9 a.m., with the Eight-Com event, the fourth race of the competition. Vasco is right behind with 4 points.
Sports Panorama
CLUB OF 13: Fábio Koff promised, but did not send the CBF the homologation of Flamengo's 1987 title
Make a Difference Award
Flamengo fans
JURY: Bernardinho (coach); Antonio Nascimento, Fernando Calazans and Renato Maurício Prado (O GLOBO)
SPORTS
At Maracanã alone, more than 1,3 million people cheered Flamengo to the state title and an incredible comeback in the Brazilian Championship. It's impossible to describe the best things that happened in Brazilian football in 2007 without mentioning the incredible popular mobilization led by Flamengo fans, which was crucial to the team's success.
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
Neither São Paulo's commanding title nor Flamengo's own comeback on the field. Brazilian football, and especially the 2007 Brazilian Championship, will be marked in history by a phenomenon observed off the field but which profoundly impacted the results of the matches. Seeing their team in the relegation zone, the red-and-black fans took their team under their wing and carried it to third place in the competition and a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. Seven Brazilian Championship attendance records were broken, culminating in the 82.044 people who flocked to Maracanã in the penultimate round to celebrate the Libertadores qualification. Of the ten largest crowds in the championship, eight were for Flamengo matches. The club brought over 745 people to its stadiums in home matches alone, representing over 11% of the total Brazilian Championship attendance. The red-and-black team averaged 39.221 paying spectators per game, more than twice the championship average of 17.461. The average is also 40% higher than that of champion São Paulo. Throughout the 2007 season, over 1,3 million people saw the team play at Maracanã.
It's not difficult to measure the importance of Flamengo's fans in the club's campaign. On August 11, with the team in second-to-last place in the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo returned to Maracanã after a long absence caused by transfers and game postponements due to the Pan American Games. More than 34 fans turned out to support the team in its victory over Náutico. From then on, with growing attendance, the comeback began. Flamengo played 16 more times at Maracanã, with 12 wins, three draws, and one loss.
"We began the run of games at Maracanã in a very difficult situation. Everyone worked hard, but we were only able to achieve our goals because the Flamengo fans bought into the team's enthusiasm. Anyone who works at Flamengo needs to understand the strength of the fans and respect them," said coach Joel Santana. Former Corinthians player, another popular club in the country, defender Fábio Luciano was also impressed by the fans' involvement in the team's response: "What caught our attention most was the fans' loyalty when we were in the relegation zone."
But recognition of the fans' strength didn't come solely from the players. At the season-ending celebration, when it honored the standout players of the Brazilian Championship, the CBF presented a special award to the Flamengo fans. Days later, Rio's mayor, Cesar Maia, declared the Flamengo fans' fan base a Cultural Asset of the city. "Fans cheering in defeat is rare. It was a popular phenomenon that strengthened Rio's image," said Cesar Maia.
Sports Journal
Fat Santa Claus in Gávea
Close to Christmas, the board announces the signing of Jônatas, the team's maestro in 2008
Thiago Bokel
After a long saga, Jônatas is finally back at Flamengo
Despite promising on Thursday that he would only announce the signing of defensive midfielder Jônatas after Christmas, vice president of football Kleber Leite broke protocol and announced yesterday the player's repatriation from Barcelona. The club will pay €900 for the loan of the captain of the 2006 Copa do Brasil champions. There is still no set date for the midfielder's presentation.
This match, in fact, sealed his fate with Flamengo. At the time, he argued vehemently with then-football director Marcos Braz and Kleber Leite himself, who were allegedly hindering his move to the Catalan club. Soon after, on August 5, 2006, he said goodbye to Flamengo in a 1-0 victory over Goiás. Because of this incident, the director was eventually fired, as he publicly stated that if the player returned to Flamengo, he would leave the following day. Kleber Leite, however, preferred not to confirm the terms of the agreement, only the length of the contract.
"This problem is resolved. Jônatas will stay at Flamengo until June 30, 2009. I'm not talking about numbers, as this is an internal matter and only concerns the club. But if we want to keep him after the loan period, the amount we're paying now will be deducted," the director added.
Jônatas is still in Spain and is only expected to arrive in Brazil next Monday, Christmas Eve. What weighed on his return, despite the affection and admiration from the fans, was his lack of a good atmosphere at the club, caused by several disciplinary issues. In July of this year, the board tried to bring him back, but since the Spanish directors still had hope that Jônatas would adapt to the club, they ultimately declined to release him at that time.
The 25-year-old player, born in Fortaleza, joined Flamengo at 19 from Tombense in Minas Gerais. He was discovered by Inhumas in Goiás, where he played in the Brazilian Under-20 Championship. In 2003, then-coach Nelsinho Baptista gave him his first professional opportunity. Even at a young age, Jônatas was highly criticized by the fans. From 2005 onwards, he established himself as a starter, only to leave for Espanyol.
The return to his old home was good for both sides: for Flamengo, who needed a maestro for their midfield, and for the player, who now hopes to relive the good times of his first spell at the club, which earned him a call-up to the Brazilian national team.
Comment creates discomfort
Vice President of Football Kleber Leite's statement that Flamengo would not play in a stadium above 2.750 meters in altitude, alluding to a potential match against Peruvian club Cienciano, ended up having a very negative impact in the Peruvian club's hometown of Cuzco. Even though Flamengo is not yet guaranteed a spot in the group stage, it will have to face Uruguay's Montevideo Wanderers for a spot.
Cuzco sits at an altitude of 3.400 meters, but CONMEBOL has already announced that all clubs will be allowed to play at home in the Copa Libertadores. According to the Peruvian newspaper "Liberal," Cienciano's director of football, José Quispe, was unhappy with the club's statements. "This measure is great for us. We have no reason to complain. The fairest thing is for the club to play at home, regardless of the opponent's wishes," he quipped.
And if Flamengo truly adopts this stance of not playing, if Cienciano advances to this stage, the punishment will be severe. The club could be suspended by CONMEBOL. In an interview with Sportv, the organization's representative in Brazil, Hildo Nejar, explained what could happen.
"The club that doesn't play will have to pay a fine of US$100 (R$180), lose the match 3-0, and will be out of the competition and the next two matches organized by CONMEBOL. These cases, as well as those in Quito, Ecuador, Mexico, and Bolivia, would condemn the fans. Cienciano has a good stadium, which was remodeled for the Copa América. Ultimately, these are stadiums that, if there is no football, will become obsolete," explained Nejar.
The trauma experienced by Flamengo this year when they had to play in Potosí, above 4.200m, led the club's management to promise that such a situation would never happen again. But if Cienciano's inclusion in Flamengo's squad is confirmed, not playing in Cuzco could cause a major headache for the Rio de Janeiro club.
Colace and the youth academy players will be loaned out
Flamengo's release list has already included a few names. After midfielder Marcinho and striker Bruno Mezenga left for Macaé, and defender Hélder signed with Boavista, other players are unlikely to remain.
Argentine Colace will be loaned out, as will Vinícius Pacheco, who is expected to go to Corinthians. Fabiano Oliveira could also remain with Goiás, which shares the player's federation rights with Flamengo. Other players from the youth academy are expected to be loaned out, but this has not yet been determined. Party in Niterói
Supporter Ibson and goalkeeper Diego will play a charity match to support charities next Wednesday at 17 p.m. at the Cinco de Julho club. All you need to do is bring 2 kg of non-perishable food. So far, 25 tons have been collected. Léo Moura, Souza, and Toró have already confirmed their attendance.
Rubro-Negra Illana ready for the Beijing dream
Illana Pinheiro has a habit of winning top-scoring trophies. Now it's time to shine in the elite.
A standout in Brazilian water polo, 21-year-old left-hander Illana Pinheiro has been called up to the women's water polo team for the Impeira Pre-Olympics in February. A top scorer in two of the last three Brazilian championships and two state championships, she's a true perfect girl. But she's yet to make her debut at a major international event.
"I played in a South American tournament, and I think I did well. But I want to see how I'll perform against the best in the world. The Pre-Olympics will be a great opportunity. I'm very motivated and want to compete well. Brazil has quality players and can do well," said Illana.
The debut in the Pre-Olympics will be against Germany.
"Our problem is the pace of the game. Germany will certainly be better in that regard."
Decision of the year in the waters of the Lagoon
Vasco and Flamengo compete today in the event that could determine the State Rowing champion
Rafael Oliveira
Vasco's eight-man crew, which has never been beaten, is the favorite for today's regatta
At 9 a.m., the lanes of Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas will be the center of attention for Rio de Janeiro rowing fans. This year's state champion could be announced today. But this isn't the final regatta of the tournament, but rather a single event: the Eight-Com - Debutante, which, after being postponed, will finally take place.
The race is part of the fourth regatta of the championship, but it was canceled due to athletes competing in a race that is under judicial review. Now, with the rowers who were unable to participate replaced, the race will finally take place at Lagoa.
The current championship situation is as follows: the Two-Com - Debutant race, won by Vasco in the second regatta, is under review due to the participation of a rower from the hill club who was not registered. Since the points for this race have not been tallied, Flamengo leads (250 points) and Vasco is second (249).
If they win the Eight Com, the red-black team will be the 2007 champion. If Vasco da Gama wins, the Two Com trial, scheduled for January 18th by the STJD, will decide which club will win the trophy.
Interestingly, the big names in Rio de Janeiro rowing can't do anything to help their respective clubs. Such a huge responsibility has fallen to newcomers (athletes with a maximum of three wins under their belts).
But they assure that the pressure doesn't bother them one bit. "We're very calm. We're going to take responsibility and win the race," said Vasco rower Francisco Abreu.
For the red-black coach Marcos Amorim, it will be precisely the emotional balance that will define the winner.
"They have great athletes, just like us. The fight is very even. The psychological aspect is what will make the difference."
If Vasco's track record in the eight-man races is anything to go by, today's race already has a winner. The boat "Eurico Miranda" has never lost a single race under its belt. It will be another asset for this race.
Flamengo will start with Juscelino Silva (coxswain), Tulio Avelar, Fernando Nunes, Maurílio Neto, Vinicius Resende, Victor Dibo, Thiago Machado, Francisco Ramon and Pedro Linhares. The São Januário club will be competing with Luis Fernando (coxswain), Francisco Abreu, Danilo Cunha, Miguel Loureiro, Renato Cataldo, Fernando Martins, Mario Bitencourt, Fagner Lourenço and Marcos Oscar.
O Dia
Flamengo: Jônatas is back
Supporter leaves Espanyol: shy and quarrelsome, he won the 'nation' with his football
Rio - Everyone in Gávea knows: Jônatas doesn't like giving interviews, he's shy, and occasionally gets into trouble with someone, but he's managed to win the hearts of the fans with his technical prowess. For coach Joel Santana, that's enough. Yesterday, the club announced it had repatriated the midfielder, who was playing for Espanyol in Barcelona.
Even knowing that Jônatas is the ninth midfielder he'll have to build his team, and that the urgent need is a striker, Joel celebrated the news. But he sent a message to the players: he'll always field the best player.
For those who don't remember, Jônatas had problems at Gávea with coaches Cuca and Celso Roth because he refused to play the ball. But the peacemaker and fatherly Joel doesn't expect any problems.
"I preferred to keep 80%, 90% of the players who participated in our wonderful Brasileirão campaign and who, therefore, deserve my respect. There are a lot of midfielders, I agree, but everyone will have a chance to earn their spot. The best will play, and those who aren't will have to wait their turn," warns the coach.
Jônatas' contract will last a year and a half, and Flamengo paid the Spaniard US$1 million (approximately R$1,8 million). Jônatas arrives in Brazil on Monday, enjoying Christmas with his family in Fortaleza, and is expected to be introduced before the New Year.
Jônatas, 25, was sold to Espanyol in 2006. In Spain, he caused a sensation upon his arrival and was immediately praised for his technical quality. However, he had disciplinary problems and did not adapt to the Barcelona club.
The name of the club's intended striker will only be announced after Christmas. "That's enough news for now," concluded vice president of football Kléber Leite.
Altitude already causes confusion
The confusion is brewing. The board has already announced that Flamengo will not play at the 3.400m altitude of Cuzco, Peru, if Cienciano defeats Uruguay's Wanderers and secures the final spot in Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores.
But if the club refuses to play, it risks being punished, warns Brazil's representative at the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), Hildo Nejar.
"A club that doesn't participate must pay a fine of US$100 and is out of the competition for up to three seasons. If it doesn't play, it loses by default, and the score is considered three to zero for the opponent," he said in an interview with the Redação Sportv program.
According to FIFA, playing at altitudes above 2.750 meters is only permitted after a 21-day acclimatization period. However, CONMEBOL is unlikely to follow this rule in this Copa Libertadores and will allow games in La Paz (3.600m), Potosí (4.000m), and Cuzco.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo announces Jônatas for 2008
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo has another reinforcement for next season. It's midfielder Jônatas, a new signing from the club itself, who had been negotiating his return since the beginning of the month. After much discussion, the Rio de Janeiro club reached an agreement with Espanyol. Jônatas will sign an 18-month loan contract with the club, effective January 1st. Furthermore, the club will have priority in the option to purchase the player's federation rights after the period.
The value of the future deal has already been agreed upon between the two clubs, but has not yet been revealed. The date for the new signing's presentation will also be scheduled by the club's management.
In addition to Jônatas, Fla signed midfielder Marcinho, from Atlético-MG, defender Rodrigo, from Dynamo Kiev, Ukraine, and Paraguayan midfielder Gavillán, formerly of Grêmio, for 2008, the year in which it will compete in the Copa Libertadores for the second consecutive time, a feat that had not occurred since the 1983/84 biennium.
Calm, Flamengo president already talks about titles\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - With the arrival of several reinforcements for the 2008 season, Flamengo president Kébler Leite guarantees that the red-and-black squad will be capable of winning the Copa Libertadores and Campeonato Carioca titles. According to the director, the calm within the football department has been crucial to building a winning project. "Until recently, signing players was very difficult, but today Flamengo is managing to return to being the club it always was, a benchmark and the dream of most athletes. One example of this was the fact that we were able to sign defender Rodrigo. He's an athlete who was in the plans of several clubs, including São Paulo, the current two-time Brazilian champion. And he chose to return from European football to wear the Flamengo jersey. This makes me very happy," explained Kléber Leite.
Leaving - But while some arrive, others may leave. Midfielder Helder and forward Vinícius Pacheco, who were on loan and will rejoin the rest of the squad on January 2nd, are unlikely to remain at Gávea for the next season, as they are not in coach Joel Santana's plans.
The midfielder has practically signed a contract with Boavista, while Vinícius is expected to join Corinthians. The São Paulo club's president, Andrés Sanchez, has asked Kléber Leite to release the player, which is expected to happen in the coming days.
Flamengo tries to release Renato Abreu, from Al Nasr\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's board is expected to confirm good news for the club's fans in the coming days. The return of midfielder Renato Abreu, who excelled with the team, winning major titles such as the 2006 Copa do Brasil and the 2007 Campeonato Carioca, is very close, as reported by the supporter's own agent, Claudio Guadagno, on Friday afternoon. The player currently plays for Al Nasr of the United Arab Emirates, with whom he has a contract until May. "Renato's desire is to return to Flamengo, a club he identified with deeply and scored many goals for. Therefore, there is a strong possibility," said the agent.
However, the businessman thinks it is very difficult for Renato Abreu to make it to the Copa Libertadores for the red-black team, as he considers it unlikely that the Arab club will agree to release him before the end of his current contract.
"He has a contract until mid-year, and I don't think he'll be released before then. Flamengo, however, is alone in this dispute, as Fluminense isn't interested, as some media outlets have reported," the agent said.
For Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, Renato's return would be very important. "Of course, Flamengo would like to have Renato Abreu today, if possible. He's a player with a storied history here, was very important in winning titles, and always gave his best on the field," the director concluded.
PeléNet
Flamengo confirms the return of midfielder Jônatas
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Jônatas, who left the club in 2006, is back at Flamengo. On Friday afternoon, the Flamengo board reached an agreement with Espanyol-ESP for the midfielder's return. The player's contract will last 18 months, with him remaining at Gávea until the end of June 2009.
2006 Copa do Brasil champion, midfielder Jônatas returns to Flamengo
After the loan period, Flamengo has the option to buy. The transfer fee has already been set, but the Flamengo board has not disclosed it. Jônatas' presentation date has yet to be announced.
Flamengo hasn't dreamed of Jônatas' return since then. In 2007, ahead of the Brazilian Championship, the Flamengo board contacted Jônatas, but the deal ultimately fell through.
To sign the midfielder, Flamengo had to compete with Fluminense. This is because Fluminense also expressed interest in the player. However, Espanyol's directors always preferred the red-and-black.
In addition to Jônatas, Flamengo has already signed midfielders Kleberson (ex-Besikitas-TUR) and Gavilán (ex-Grêmio), defender Rodrigo (ex-Dínamos de Kiev-UCR) and midfielder Marcinho (ex-Atlético-MG).
Refusal to play at altitude could result in suspension for Flamengo
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
After vice president of football Kleber Leite emphasized that Flamengo will not play in Cuzco if Peruvian team Cienciano qualifies for the Copa Libertadores group stage, Brazil's representative to the South American Football Confederation, Hildo Nejar, issued a warning. Flamengo could be punished by CONMEBOL.
"The club that refuses will have to pay a fine of US$100 and will be out for up to three editions. The team loses by default and the score considered will be three to zero for the opponent," warned Nejar in an interview this Friday with the Redação Sportv program.
The red-black directors highlight the problems caused to the health of the athletes due to the fact that they play at such a high altitude (Cuzco is 3.400m above sea level) and do not admit exposing their players to such risks.
In any case, Flamengo will only face Cienciano if the Peruvians defeat Montevideo Wanderers-URU, in a match valid for the last spot in Group 4 of the continental competition. Besides Flamengo, Coronel Bolognesi-PER and the traditional Nacional-URU are already part of the competition.
Fla x América, in the State Championship, may not be on Carnival Sunday
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The match between Flamengo and América, for the fifth round of Group A of the Guanabara Cup, the first round of the Rio State Championship, may no longer be played on February 3, Carnival Sunday, at 18:10 p.m. (Brasília time), at the Maracanã Stadium. The Military Police vetoed the game on this date due to security concerns during the holiday.
The Rio Football Federation (Ferj), through its press officer, Pedro Costa, confirms the PM's veto, but not the new date for the meeting, which should only take place on January 3, when the entity returns from the end-of-year recess.
Flamengo vs. América is most likely to be moved up to Saturday at 16 p.m. at the Engenhão stadium. With the change, Fluminense vs. Boavista, which was previously scheduled for the same time, would now be played the day before, also at the Engenhão stadium, at 20:30 p.m.
Despite the PM's request, due to Carnival security concerns, the change could also pose problems. If Flamengo's match is confirmed for Saturday, the team would play on the same day that Botafogo and Vasco face off at Maracanã in Group B, at 18:10 pm. Earlier this month, Botafogo and Vasco fans joined forces in a brawl with Flamengo fans that caused chaos in downtown Rio. A Flamengo fan was beaten and died. Maracanã and Engenhão are both stadiums served by trains, and the stations are about 15 minutes apart.
Not against Flamengo
Presented by São Paulo this Friday, striker Adriano stated that if he scores goals against Flamengo he will not celebrate them.
"I hope to do my part against Flamengo, but if I score a goal I won't celebrate out of respect, but I will be happy to score a goal for São Paulo," he said when asked about a possible meeting with his former club in the Libertadores.
The now São Paulo player, who in Brazil had only played for Flamengo (pictured in a match against River Plate in 2000), asked fans to understand his decision to go to the Morumbi club.
"Flamengo is part of my life, and I also ask that the fans not be upset by my choice, but I think they'll understand, because it's a choice for my own good. I made this choice because São Paulo helped me a lot, and this is also a way of saying thank you," he said.
Coincidentally, the striker scored his first professional goal against São Paulo, precisely on his debut for Flamengo in 2000. “Now I want to pay with interest,” he warned.
BalloonSport
Kléberson will sign for five years
The midfielder's current contract would run until the end of 2008. Fla sells part of Renato Augusto
Kléberson will sign a long-term contract with Flamengo
Flamengo practically completed the deal on Friday that will secure Kléberson's five-year contract at Gávea. The club will deposit next week the €1,5 million (R$3,9 million) corresponding to the player's fine from FIFA for unilaterally breaching his contract with Besiktas of Türkiye.
The money, according to information published in the newspaper "Lance," will come from the sale of 20% of the economic rights of midfielder Renato Augusto, whose release clause is €30 million (R$78,174 million), to a sports marketing company. The club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, did not confirm the source of the money.
- This only concerns Flamengo. I have no reason to say anything - he says.
Kléberson's contract with the club was initially scheduled to run until the end of 2008. However, with the financial issue resolved, he will sign a five-year contract. The midfielder arrived at Gávea in October, but the transfer window was closed. He also served a four-month suspension due to the dispute with Besiktas and will be eligible to make his debut in February 2008.
Rodrigo at Fla: he even received death threats
Globoesporte.com tells the behind-the-scenes story of the defender's negotiations with Rubro-Negro
Eric Faria From TV Globo, in Rio de Janeiro
Rodrigo to Flamengo: a negotiation full of twists and turns
Last Thursday, Flamengo unveiled defender Rodrigo, signed on loan from Dynamo Kyiv. What few people know is that the negotiations that brought Rodrigo to Gávea began in Santos... and involved back and forth, and even a serious threat. Rodrigo was only officially cleared to sign with Flamengo after a tense and emotional phone call the defender himself made to Dynamo Kyiv president Igor Surkis.
The story began in late November. Rodrigo, who was recovering from a knee injury at Santos, asked Vanderlei Luxemburgo, then Santos' coach, if he would stay in the position in 2008. The defender wanted to play in the Copa Libertadores—and Santos had practically qualified. The coach said he couldn't guarantee his stay.
- Then I'll look for other things - said Rodrigo.
The first contact came from Morumbi. The player's agent, Giussepe Diogardi, met with São Paulo—but heard an offer he considered too low. The defender declined. He ended up hearing from Milton Cruz, a member of the Brazilian champion's coaching staff, that the financial aspect should be put on the back burner:
- Playing at Morumbi is now a brand, Rodrigo - said Milton.
The argument didn't sound persuasive. The defender then learned of Flamengo's interest. Contact was made, a quick meeting ensued, and Rodrigo agreed on a salary agreement with the Rio de Janeiro club. Dynamo sent a fax authorizing the transaction—a document that still didn't release the player. That's when the situation began to get complicated. São Paulo learned of the deal and decided to re-enter the field. They contacted the defender, offering a better salary. Rodrigo said he wouldn't back down. The São Paulo club's board didn't give up. They asked Rogério Ceni to get involved and call Rodrigo, appealing to his emotional side. To no avail, Rodrigo told the goalkeeper he'd already given his word.
Tricolor offered 80% more than Fla
Still, São Paulo didn't throw in the towel. They contacted Dynamo Kyiv directly with a better financial offer than Flamengo's. São Paulo offered 80% more and informed Dynamo that "Rodrigo preferred to play at Morumbi." When the Tricolor's offer arrived, the defender's agent was in Ukraine to finalize the transfer to Rio de Janeiro. Dynamo president Igor Surkis saw the difference and wanted to accept the São Paulo offer. When the agent refused, things escalated.
- He told me that I wouldn't leave Ukraine alive - says Diogardi.
The atmosphere heated up. Angrily, Surkis declared that Rodrigo would no longer be leaving for anywhere—he would be forced to fulfill his contract with Dynamo. That's when the defender made his emotional tackle. Taking advantage of his good relationship with the club's director, he called Ukraine. He spoke about his recovery and the importance of keeping his word. He eventually secured his release and signed with Flamengo.
Fla has overcrowding in the midfield
Ibson approves of Jônatas' arrival, but is impressed by the competition in the sector
Eduardo Peixoto
Ibson is one of Flamengo's midfield players
Flamengo has, in total, almost an entire team of defensive midfielders. And with the arrival of Jônatas, competition for a spot in midfield has increased considerably.
Ibson was informed by GLOBOESPORTE.COM about his friend's arrival. They played together in the Rubro-Negro youth and professional divisions in 2004.
"Jônatas is back? Wow, the midfield is packed with good players! There are about 12 players competing for just four spots. (laughs) But it's important to have a squad. Flamengo is coming in strong," says the midfielder.
Coach Joel Santana has ten players available for defensive midfielders alone—11 if Toró joins the squad. Some are more defensive, like Jaílton, Colace, Rômulo, and Gavilán. Others are good at running the ball, like Ibson, Jônatas, Kléberson, Cristian, and Leo Medeiros. There's also Vinícius Colombiano, who recently underwent knee surgery. According to youth coach Adílio, the list could grow.
- Andrade (Joel's assistant) told me that Antônio (midfielder for the juniors) should start training with the professionals - he declares.
What about the attack?
Kléberson is another attraction for 2008
To complete the overcrowded defense, Flamengo has defensive midfielders Renato Augusto and Marcinho. Both are expected to compete for a spot in attack this season.
Joel believes the red-and-black midfield at the start of the season should consist of Gavilán, Jônatas, Kléberson, and Ibson. However, as he is suspended by FIFA, Kléberson will not participate in the first rounds of the Campeonato Carioca.
While the midfield is richly represented, the attacking situation is a bit more complicated. Joel only has Souza, Obina, Maxi, and Paulo Sergio available. The board hopes to strengthen the midfield next week.
Fla's midfield
Defensive midfielders Gavilán, Jaílton, Colace, Rômulo (injured), Leo Medeiros, Cristian, Ibson, Kléberson, Jônatas and Vinícius Colombiano (injured)\ Midfielders Toró, Renato Augusto and Marcinho\
Flamengo's promise goes to Macaé
Bruno Mezenga is loaned to compete in the state championship for a debuting team
Mezenga was the top scorer in Flamengo's youth divisions
Flamengo's squad-reduction strategy led to a partnership with Macaé. The team, which will debut in the First Division in 2008, signed midfielder Marcinho and forward Bruno Mezenga.
The former was known in the Rubro-Negro youth ranks as Pitbull, due to his strong marking ability. He has had few opportunities with the first team and will be loaned out to gain experience.
Mezenga, meanwhile, was one of the club's most promising young players. He made his professional debut at just 16, in 2005. He didn't establish himself and suffered a series of medical problems. He was loaned out last year to Fortaleza, but returned. Macaé is the hope for a fresh start.
Fla confirms Jônatas' return
The steering wheel release document arrives, and he agrees for 18 months.
Eduardo Peixoto
Jônatas is back at Flamengo
Flamengo's Christmas package to its fans has a new addition. On Friday afternoon, the club announced the signing of defensive midfielder Jônatas, who was previously at Espanyol.
"Everything is closed. We've resolved the problem," says vice president of football, Kléber Leite.
The player's contract will last a year and a half, and Flamengo paid the Spanish club US$1 million (approximately R$1,8 million) to sign him. Jônatas' agent, Eduardo Uram, received the document accepting the offer and informed the Flamengo board.
The player arrives in Brazil next Monday, spends Christmas with his family in Fortaleza and should be presented at the end of the week.
Jônatas, at 25, was sold to Espanyol after the 2006 Copa do Brasil final. In Spain, he was highly praised for his technical quality. However, his constant disciplinary problems led to him being described by one newspaper as "a baby begging his mother to cuddle him."
The mother, in this case, would be Flamengo. And so it was. The red-and-black club repatriated the midfielder and practically ends the signing cycle for 2008. According to the plan, the next step is a striker.
Previously, the board signed defender Rodrigo, midfielders Kléberson and Gavilán and midfielder Marcinho.
Who is he:\ Name: Jonatas Domingos\ Position: Defensive midfielder\ Age: 25 years old (29/07/1982)\ Clubs: Flamengo (2000-06), Espanyol (2006) and Flamengo\ Games for Fla: 169\ Goals for Fla: 12\ Contract: 30/6/2009\
Ibson calls on fans for charity match
Flamengo player organizes 'Happy New Year' on December 26th, in Niterói
With you
Ibson organizes charity soccer game in Niterói on December 26th. The ball hasn't even rolled yet and Ibson has already collected more than 25 tons of food for the "Happy New Year" soccer game, which he organizes alongside his teammate Diego. The event takes place on the 26th, at 17 p.m., at the Cinco de Julho stadium in Niterói (Av. do Contorno nº 4 – Praça do Barreto, next to the Viradouro court).
In addition to the organizers, several other players will be in attendance. Leo Moura, Souza, Henrique (Bordeaux-FRA), Toró, and Luiz Alberto (Fluminense) were already confirmed. Now, the expectation is for Cristian and Obina, both from Flamengo.
"Cristian has already confirmed he's coming. I'll try to get Obina on the radio. I know he'll be in Rio on the 27th for Zico's soccer match," says Ibson.
The player urges fans to attend the festive match. Not just for the football itself, but for the opportunity to support various charities with food.
"Everyone deserves a happy end of the year, as the name of the game says. I want to collect a lot of food. The entrance fee will be 1 kg, but if you want to bring more, feel free," says the Flamengo midfielder, who has already made his donation.
Event schedule
17pm - match between Flamengo and Vasco Masters\ 19pm - main game with players and artists\
Address:\ Contour Avenue No. 4 – Barreto Square, next to the Viradouro court\
Fla complete Christmas gifts
Kléber Leite is still looking for a striker, but his name will only be announced after December 25th.
Eduardo Peixoto
Jônatas is Fla's new attraction for the Libertadores
Mengão's Christmas Package
Rodrigo Defender\ Gavilán Defensive Midfielder\ Jônatas Defensive Midfielder\ Marcinho Midfielder\
The deal with Jônatas was Flamengo's final Christmas gift to its fans. Now, to finalize the squad for the start of 2008, the only thing missing is the signing of a striker. But that name won't be announced until after December 25th.
"More news? Enough, right?" says Fla's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, in a good mood.
During this period of negotiations, Flamengo's shots were accurate. All the negotiations the board had hoped for were successfully concluded. The squad's formation began with Kléberson's arrival in October.
After the end of the Brazilian Championship, the club signed defender Rodrigo (already introduced), midfielder Marcinho (another who wore the shirt) and midfielder Gavilán (arriving on the 26th).
In addition to the striker to play alongside Souza, Rubro-Negro could also sign a young Brazilian football prospect who is currently in litigation with his club.
Zico calls for the 'All-Star Game'
Galinho awaits a packed Maracanã to remember his time as a Flamengo player
Zico will put aside his suit next week to play in Rio. Zico will also coach Fenerbahçe this Saturday against Trabzonspor in the Turkish Championship, and then head to Rio de Janeiro, where he will play in the 'All-Star Game,' which will be held at the Maracanã for the first time this year. "Galinho" hopes to relive his days as an athlete and hopes the stadium will be packed for next Thursday's match.
"I'm here in Turkey, but I know all the preparations are underway for a big party. Maracaibo is a very special place for me, and this year's game will be even more special because of the opportunity to reunite the 1987 Flamengo team, which is part of the club's history," recalls Galinho, speaking through the event's press office.
Tickets are on sale at four locations: Maracanã itself, Gávea (home of Flamengo), Laranjeiras (home of Fluminense), and the Zico Football Center in Recreio dos Bandeirantes. Grandstand tickets cost R$10, and blue seats cost R$6. All proceeds will go to charity.
"The 'All-Star Game' is an event that's becoming a tradition, bringing together soccer fans and focusing on helping others. So, I invite everyone who can be there to join us in this celebration. Tickets for the game are on sale now, and the proceeds will go to Rio's charities. I'll be waiting for you at Maracanã," Zico calls.
In addition to the '87 Flamengo team, the following players are confirmed for the party: Dutchman Seedorf, Japanese Nakata, Paraguayans Arce and Gamarra, and Brazilians Emerson, Vagner Love, Carlos Alberto, Obina, Ibson, Leo Moura, Gabriel, Raí, Amoroso, Edmundo, among others. The referee will be Wagner Tardelli, with assistants Ana Paula de Oliveira and Maria Elisa.
FlaTV premiere postponed again
Activities are scheduled to begin on January 15th. Kléber Leite is excited. Eduardo Peixoto. Contrary to expectations, FlaTV's debut will not take place on January 3rd. Due to technical issues, the club postponed the launch until January 15th. Initially, the Flamengo channel, which will feature exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of the team, was scheduled to air in mid-November.
"There will be a big launch party, probably at a hotel. Fans can get in touch starting January 3rd, but the premiere will be on the 15th. The project will be of great importance to football," says Kléber Leite, vice president of football at Rubro-Negro.
The club is expected to earn up to R$5 million per month from FlaTV. Broadcasts will be online.
Throw
Flamengo: a team made up of defensive midfielders
Rubro-Negro has 11 players who have already been used in the position
Jônatas is one of the 11 defensive midfielders in Flamengo's squad (Credit: Júlio César Guimarães)
LANCEPRESS!
In search of a strong team for next year's Copa Libertadores, Flamengo continues to announce players to bolster its roster. The club has already signed midfielder Marcinho, defender Rodrigo, and defensive midfielders Gavilán and Jônatas. However, there's a curious fact about the Flamengo squad: 11 players are defensive midfielders by trade.
Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson, Rômulo, Léo Medeiros, Colace, Kleberson, Gavilán, Jônatas, and Vinícius Colombiano are the names. But Toró can also be used as a defensive midfielder.
In two respects, the excess of players in this position needn't worry fans. First, it was with a midfield consisting of Jaílton, Cristian, Ibson, and Toró that Flamengo secured a spot in the Copa Libertadores. Second, many of these defensive midfielders are also creative.
Cristian, Ibson, Léo Medeiros, Kleberson and Jônatas have quality passing and supply the attack.
Additionally, Cristian, Léo Medeiros, and Ibson scored goals in the Brasileirão. Ibson was one of the team's top scorers.
Joel Santana justified the arrival of defensive midfielders by noting that Rômulo is recovering from an injury and that Cristian's continued presence is still uncertain. He didn't seem concerned about the excess of players for the position.
"We played like this and won this year. Everyone plays like this. The team has to play the way it's supposed to. It's a winning system, and we've already shown it works," said Joel, highlighting another reason the midfield has several marking players:
– Our four full-backs (Leonardo Moura, Luizinho, Juan, and Egídio) are aggressive. This way, we can give them more freedom.
Jônatas returns to Gávea after a period away
Midfielder arrives to reinforce the team in the Libertadores
Jônatas has already played 169 matches for Flamengo (Credit: Cléber Mendes)
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo announced this Friday on its official website another reinforcement for the 2008 season. Midfielder Jônatas, who was discovered at Gávea, has agreed to return to the club.
Espanyol, the owner of the player's rights, agreed to loan Jônatas to the club for a year and a half. Flamengo has the option to buy him after the loan ends.
Jônatas has played 169 matches for Flamengo and scored 12 goals. He was called up to the Brazilian national team once during his career, shortly before moving to Spain.
His last game wearing the Flamengo shirt was on August 5, 2006, in the 1-0 victory over Goiás, the date that marked the return of striker Sávio.
Bruno will sign a renewal next week
The goalkeeper has been at the club since September last year
LANCEPRESS!
Bruno's contract renewal with Flamengo, agreed on Wednesday, should be signed next week, according to a revelation made by the goalkeeper's agent, Eduardo Uram:
- Bruno already has an agreement with the investors (MSI), all that remains is to draw up the contract and sign it - explains Uram.
The goalkeeper, who arrived at Fla in September 2006 and has already played 76 games for the club, should have his contract with Rubro-Negro for another five years.
Conmebol director explains Flamengo's situation
Brazil's representative at the South American entity believes in an agreement
Renato Augusto fell ill and received oxygen during Flamengo's game against Real Potosí, in the 2007 Libertadores (Credit: Cleber Mendes)
Flamengo's board stated this Friday that it would not accept playing at altitude in the Copa Libertadores, as the Rubro-Negro could face Cienciano (PER) if the team eliminates Montevideo Wanderers (URU) - the Peruvian club is based in Cuzco, a city at 3.400 meters above sea level. And Brazil's representative at Conmebol, Hildo Nejar, explained the situation to SporTV:
"Any club that doesn't participate in the match will have to pay a fine and will be out of the competition and the next two matches held by CONMEBOL. However, I believe Flamengo will play, and there is still the possibility of reaching an agreement with the Peruvian Football Confederation to move the match to Lima."
Nejar also believes that not playing at altitude could cause significant losses for clubs that invest in their stadiums.
"The case of Ecuador, Quito, Mexico, and Bolivia. We're going to condemn the fans and leave the stadiums obsolete. You (the press) know that Cienciano has a good stadium, which was remodeled for the Copa América in Peru. In short, these are stadiums that, if there's no football, will become obsolete," he added.
The Brazilian representative at Conmebol also clarified that FIFA determined that in the event of a 3-0 loss, the team will lose 100-180. The fine for the club that does not attend the game is XNUMX thousand dollars (approximately R$ XNUMX thousand).
Fabio Luciano praises new hires
Defender is happy with the work of the red-black board
LANCEPRESS!
Defender Fabio Luciano, one of Flamengo's pillars in the club's qualification for the next Libertadores, was enthusiastic about the signing of reinforcements for the 2008 season.
"It's looking good. The Libertadores demands this: experienced players with a competitive spirit. I'm very happy with the board's work in signings. Flamengo is getting stronger."
The red-black number 3 also celebrated the renewal of goalkeeper Bruno's contract, which was verbally agreed upon last Wednesday.
- The board is doing the right job, striving to maintain the team and bring in good players.
Jônatas has three titles with the Fla shirt
Steering wheel won the Guanabara Cup, the State Championship and the Brazilian Cup
LANCEPRESS!
Revealed in Flamengo's youth ranks, Jônatas won the Taça Guanabara, the Campeonato Estadual - both in 2004 - and the Copa do Brasil in 2006. The 25-year-old player agreed to return to Gávea this Friday.
The midfielder, before going to Espanyol, in Barcelona, played his last match on August 5, 2006, when Rubro-Negro won 1-0 against Goiás, in the Brasileirão.
Jônatas has played 169 matches for the red-and-black team, scoring 12 goals. In the 2006 Copa do Brasil finals, he put in stellar performances in both matches against arch-rival Vasco. In the second match, won 1-0 by the Gávea club, the Ceará native from Fortaleza made a spectacular play in the second half, but it resulted in a great save by Cássio, the Gigante da Colina goalkeeper.
It is worth noting that the midfielder was the team's captain in winning the national competition, but ended up not staying at the club and losing the chance to play in his first Libertadores, in 2007.
Gavilán: 'It's an honor to wear the Flamengo shirt'
Midfielder wants a strong team to win the Libertadores
Recently signed by Flamengo, Paraguayan Gavilán is full of praise for the Gávea club. In an interview with Rádio Brasil, the player also revealed his desire to win the Copa Libertadores.
"It's an honor to wear the Flamengo jersey, a club with a long history. The board is working hard to form the squad that will face next year's competitions. Flamengo fans deserve a strong and respectable team," he commented.
The player, who made his Libertadores debut at the age of 18, at Cerro Portenho (PAR), in 1998, indicated how Flamengo should play in the competition.
"It's an extra motivation, much greater than the local championship. Every player knows the responsibility of playing and winning a Libertadores. Flamengo must know how to play and earn important points away from home," he added.
Adriano asks Flamengo fans for patience
Striker says he chose São Paulo as a way of saying thank you
Adriano was introduced this Friday at Morumbi
São Paulo will be Adriano's second club in Brazil. The first was Flamengo, which he left in 2001 for Italy. Upon his return to Brazil, the striker asked Flamengo fans to be patient and understand his decision to play for São Paulo, especially if the teams face each other in one of Adriano's 45 appearances for the Tricolor.
tv l! - Flamengo is part of my life, I left there very young, I ask Flamengo fans not to be upset with me because it was a choice for my own good. São Paulo helped me a lot during this month I spent here, it's a reward for them, and for you too who support me. Today I'm at São Paulo, if I score against Flamengo, I won't celebrate out of respect, but I will be happy - said the striker. (Click and see)
While playing for Flamengo, Adriano scored his first career goal against the Tricolor on February 6, 2000, in a Rio-São Paulo match. He scored one of the goals in the 5-2 rout of the Tricolor. And he promised to pay.
"My first game and first goal were against São Paulo. I have to pay it back with interest (laughs). But anyway, I'm here, very happy, and I have to thank the president and the club. I want to make it clear that I'm taking a big step in my life. Before, I didn't think about what I was doing, and now I don't. I have a huge responsibility to my family, to São Paulo, to Inter, and to the Brazilian national team."
Even though he plays for São Paulo, the player showed a special affection for Rubro-Negro and stated that it would be his second choice in Brazil.
- As soon as I arrived, I thought about staying at São Paulo. If I had to think about another club, it would be Flamengo, a club I have a lot of affection for - he concluded.
Fla-TV will only be launched on January 15th
Kleber Leite considers the initiative a major investment in football
LANCEPRESS!
The Fla-TV launch party will no longer be on January 3rd, as had been officially announced. The event at a hotel in Barra da Tijuca has been moved to the 15th.
"Due to connection issues, we will only officially launch on the 15th. But starting on the 3rd, fans will be familiar with Fla-TV, which will represent a major investment in football," said Kléber Leite.