The Globe
Fla retires the number 10 shirt until Renato Augusto returns to play
The star undergoes surgery and remains in recovery for six or seven weeks.
DIEGO TARDELLI (left) and Marcinho, candidates for Renato Augusto's vacancy, train in Gávea for the match against Cardoso Moreira
Guto Seabra
With three titanium plates and 11 screws in his face after surgery to repair his cheekbone, which was dented during the match against Boavista, Renato Augusto will know his prestige at Flamengo is untouchable. During his recovery period, estimated at six to seven weeks, the Gávea No. 10 jersey will be retired—a tribute from the board to ease the pain of their favorite's inactivity.
"I've already passed the idea on to Isaías Tinoco (supervisor), who approved it. He'll just talk to Joel. Against Cardoso Moreira, the number 10 jersey won't be on the field," says vice president of football Kleber Leite, who is on vacation in Punta del Leste, Uruguay.
But Renato Augusto is in a hurry to recover. Immediately after the three-hour surgery at Pasteur Hospital, the number 10 kept asking doctor Augusto César Lima when he could play again. Living only on ice cream, the player could be discharged between today and tomorrow.
"I told him he'll be able to do physical exercises soon. He just won't be able to head the ball. He told me he wants to play soon, and I replied, 'This is surgery, not voodoo!'" said the doctor who operated on the star.
Renato Augusto's injury is also causing a headache for coach Joel Santana. By Thursday, for the match against Cardoso Moreira, he needs to find a partner for Souza in attack. Since seniority is the priority for Joel, Obina is the favorite. But Marcinho is a surprise, and even Diego Tardelli could be chosen. Yesterday, the forward trained with a ball in the rain, demonstrating the recovery of his right ankle, and says he is waiting for São Paulo's approval to make himself available to the coach and be selected.
"For me, I want to be available for Thursday. Let's see if São Paulo can help me," said Tardelli.
Bruno's lineup on Thursday is under threat
Goalkeeper Bruno remains doubtful for Thursday's match against. Although Flamengo claims to have completed the €700 transfer, the investment fund was unable to locate the funds in Europe and, consequently, did not release the funds.
By order of president Márcio Braga, Flamengo sent a letter to the CBF and FIFA warning them about the dangers of playing games at altitudes above 2.750 meters. The club wants to protect itself from the risk of playing in the Copa Libertadores.
As the Libertadores regulations require the club to contact the South American Confederation through the CBF, Flamengo is trying to get the entity to defend the health of Brazilian players and demand that FIFA's determination, prohibiting games above 2.750 meters in altitude, be observed in the Libertadores.
The CONMEBOL Executive Committee will meet on the 22nd in Santiago to discuss the matter. Brazil's representative will be the president of the São Paulo Football Federation, Marco Polo Del Nero. Márcio Braga has ordered lawyers to study possible measures to be taken with FIFA if CONMEBOL ignores the request.
() From Extra
Sports Journal
Jônatas is regularized and can play against Cardoso Moreira
After missing Flamengo's Carioca opener against Boavista this Sunday, defensive midfielder Jônatas has now regularized his status. Flamengo will receive the document that will allow him to register.
Espanyol only requested the player's documents upon payment of one million euros, corresponding to Jônatas' loan. Despite the transfer to Flamengo, the player remains tied to the Catalan club.
Flamengo faces Cardoso Moreira in the second round of the Guanabara Cup this Thursday, at 19:30 pm, at Maracanã.
Fla demands support from CBF against altitude
Flamengo president Márcio Braga continues his fight against high-altitude matches. Yesterday, the director asked the club's lawyers to send a letter to the CBF, urging the organization to take a stand in defense of the health of Brazilian athletes and demand that FIFA's ruling banning matches at altitudes above 2.750 meters be observed in Copa Libertadores matches.
"The FIFA Executive Committee has prohibited football matches in its competitions from being held above an altitude of 2.750 meters. (...) This decision was motivated by the recommendation of doctors specializing in the effects of altitude who participated in a seminar held in October 2007 at FIFA headquarters. (...) We draw attention to the opinion of our doctors, which concludes: practicing physical activity at an altitude above 2.600 meters puts the health and even the lives of participants at risk," the president stated in some excerpts of the document.
Club vetoes the departure of homegrown talent
A standout in the Copa SP, supporter Erick Flores stays with the club in 2008
Flamengo's standout players in the São Paulo Junior Cup, Paulo Sérgio, Erick Flores, and Pedro Beda, were approached by Paulista de Jundiaí—last-placed in this year's Campeonato Paulista, with two losses in two games—but the club's board decided not to even begin negotiations with the São Paulo club for these three players. Flamengo officials consider these players rare gems and are counting on them for the Campeonato Carioca de Juniores, a competition in which the club is aiming for an unprecedented fourth title.
In place of the team's three standout players in the Copinha, Flamengo offered midfielders Rodrigo (ex-Paysandu) and Célio Júnior, but the Paulista directors have not yet responded to the red-black offer.
Football director Eduardo Manhães confirmed the Jundiaí club's interest in the athletes, but ended up vetoing the deal.
"They actually approached us about these three players, but since we have the Carioca U-20 championship to compete in and the possibility of winning an unprecedented fourth championship, we didn't accept. We made a counteroffer and offered two players," said Manhães.
Paulista's football manager, Moisés Cândido, who is handling the negotiations, was not reached by the JORNAL DOS SPORTS team.
Captain praises the team's will
The victory over Boavista last Sunday did not please a part of the red-black fans or the players, but defender Fábio Luciano explained the reasons for the difficulties the team encountered, despite the 2-0 score.
"A debut is always difficult, but the desire was worth it. The players are feeling the pain of this time without playing. At the beginning of the season, you can't apply pressure, and that's why we'll have a bit of a hard time against these teams with less investment," explained the Flamengo captain.
The team will play again next Thursday. Despite the short rest period between matches, Fábio Luciano preferred not to complain.
"The Brazilian football calendar is like that. The important thing is to have a strong group. Here at Flamengo, it's like that: we work as a team, no one does anything alone. Everyone has to help," the defender added.
Rubro-Negro's Beat - Funk singer Mc Frank, author of the song "Babaloo," which inspired striker Souza in his goal celebration last Sunday against Boavista, was in Gávea yesterday to congratulate the striker. However, the number 9 only did some physical training and was released before the singer's arrival, who, despite the missed encounter, was happy to be remembered by one of his idols. "I was flattered by Souza's tribute. I didn't get to meet him, but I'm always in Gávea. I saw the players doing the 'Babaloo' step and was surprised," said Mc Frank.
Marcinho and Tardelli want the spot
Photo by Wallace Teixeira
Marcinho and Diego Tardelli promise a fierce fight to take Renato Augusto's place
The broken cheekbone that forced midfielder Renato Augusto to undergo surgery yesterday shook the Flamengo squad. The mood of sadness and concern for the athlete's health was still evident at Gávea. But as the page needs to be turned, the fight to replace the player has already begun, and it promises to be fierce. Marcinho, who impressed in his debut against Boavista, and Diego Tardelli, who trained with the ball for the first time yesterday, are already eyeing the spot vacated by the former starter.
"I didn't want to start like this. I knew I'd have to compete for the position with other top-level players. I managed to make a good debut and help Flamengo. Unfortunately, we lost a teammate, but we have to lift our heads and go for victories. I'm not worried about sitting on the bench. The decision is in Joel's hands, but he hasn't told us who will play yet," Marcinho said.
The midfielder's main competitor is striker Diego Tardelli, who arrived at the club with a right ankle injury. Flamengo is still waiting for São Paulo's approval to make the first installment of the purchase and regularize the player's contract. Even though he's not on the same level as the rest of the group, he has set a goal: to be available against Duque de Caxias on Sunday.
"Whoever came in yesterday (Sunday) showed their worth. But I'm also in contention. I'll train hard this week to be fit to play at least part of the match on Sunday. If Flamengo releases me and Joel decides to play me on Thursday, I'll play without a problem, but I'm not 100% physically," the striker explained.
Countdown
Renato Augusto's surgery is successful and he should return in six weeks.
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Due to injury, Renato Augusto will be out of action for 6 weeks.
Bad luck seems to be following the career of young Renato Augusto. Possessing incredible skill, excellent passing, and excellent ball control, the Flamengo star underwent surgery yesterday at 13 p.m. at Pasteur Hospital in Meier. His cheekbone, which had been dented after a collision with defender Helton during Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Boavista last Sunday, had been removed.
The operation lasted about three hours and, according to Dr. Augusto César Lima (in charge of the surgery), was a success. In addition to the sunken face, Renato Augusto suffered a fractured bone. Reconstruction required the placement of three titanium plates and 11 screws. The midfielder is expected to be discharged tomorrow and return to physical activity in about a week and a half. However, he's not expected to return to the field until the match against Resende in the first round of the Taça Rio, in early March. After the surgery, the doctor commented on the operation.
"Everything went as planned. We reduced the fractured cheekbone and repaired the dent in his face. He'll have a bruise for a while, but he'll be back playing in six to seven weeks," said doctor Augusto César Lima.
This is the second time the red-and-black number 10 has suffered this type of injury, which is rare for a soccer player. In 2005, while competing in the U-17 World Cup in Peru, he suffered the same problem and was sidelined for approximately 40 days.
Defender Hélton, who was involved in the play that caused the injury, said through Boavista's press office that he was upset by what happened and hopes to visit the supporter soon.
"I was very sad after learning how serious the injury was. It's really bad to be involved, even unintentionally, in that kind of play, and it upset me. He's a teammate, and I hope he recovers quickly. I want to visit him as soon as I have the chance. I'm even avoiding watching the play again on television because the image is so graphic," said Hélton.
Fábio Luciano hopes for a good recovery from Renato Augusto
After undergoing an operation that lasted around 3 hours, this Monday, to reconstruct the fractured bones in his face, Flamengo midfielder Renato Augusto had a successful surgery and could leave the hospital in the next 48 hours.
The red-black captain, Fábio Luciano, commented on Renato Augusto's situation and the group's reaction to the news.
"All of this left everyone very upset. I only heard the news at the end of the game, and it's sad because he's a player who is always motivated, always full of energy. He's young and wants this to be a special year. Let's pray hard for everything to go well and for him to have a speedy recovery," said Fábio Luciano in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
Flamengo celebrates its good campaign
Rafael Oliveira
Duda is one of Flamengo's standout performers in their undefeated campaign at the National Basketball Championship
Flamengo basketball has never been in such good form. After winning its third state championship, the team started the National Championship with a bang. They've already won five of their five games, the red-and-black team's best debut in the competition's history, equaling their feats from 2000 and 2004. With Minas' losses to Saldanha da Gama and Brasília's to Joinville, the Rio de Janeiro team now holds the sole lead. The campaign is overwhelming: 83-69 over Univates, in Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul; 82-65 over Joinville, in Santa Catarina; 98-62 over CETAF, in Gávea; 94-79 over Saldanha, also in Rio de Janeiro; and most recently, 78-71 over Londrina, in the city of Paraná.
The other two times the red-and-blacks debuted with a fifth title, they were defeated in the final (in 2000 by Vasco and in 2004 by Uberlândia-MG). Next Friday, they will have the opportunity to achieve their sixth victory, as they will face, at home, the last-placed Iguaçu BC.
The team's point guard in 2004, Duda returned to the club to help them in their quest for their first title. Comparing the two teams, he believes the current squad has the potential to have an even more impressive campaign.
"It's important to match the achievements of the previous group, but the current group is technically superior. The players can take the club further in the championship."
O Dia
Flamengo: Souza 'gives MC Frank a thumbs up'
Rio - After being honored by his friend Souza, who celebrated the goal with one of his choreographed moves — the 'Passinho do Babalu' — MC Frank went to Gávea yesterday to thank the striker, but when he arrived at the club... wow. The player had already left.
"I arrived late and Souza had to take care of some problems. But he called me to say he had celebrated with the passinho, even though he himself says it's a bit clumsy," joked MC Frank.
Perhaps Souza's awkward manner led to a mix of babalu and the "dança do créu," a hit on the city's dance floors. "I even sent him a DVD to practice. It's not créu, no, but what matters is that funk is being remembered," he said.
MC Frank, a longtime friend of the striker: "When he played for Madureira, I was a reserve. He went to Vasco, so I didn't have much of a celebration plan. Now, the next one should be the funk song 'Eu tô tranqüilão', by MC Sapão," he bets.
Besides Souza, MC Frank said he was friends with Obina, Leonardo Moura, Léo Medeiros, among others. He also sings the song "Oh, it rained, the hair shrank," which in the stands became "Oh, f... Souza showed up."
Even though he didn't meet Souza, MC Frank enjoyed his day as a celebrity in Gávea. He took the opportunity to improvise a rhyme: "My team is full of actors, they're going to win the Carioca and the Libertadores," sang the funk singer, who promised to return to Gávea today to try to return Souza's tribute with a hug. But without a clue.
Renato Augusto's surgery is a success, says doctor
Rio - Surgery was successfully performed on the face of Flamengo midfielder Renato Augusto on Monday afternoon, after he suffered fractured bones after a collision with Boavista defender Hélton in the opening match of the 2008 Carioca Championship this Sunday.
The surgical procedure lasted three hours and was performed in a hospital in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro by Doctor Agusto César Lima, who had already operated on the player in 2005. To reconstruct the fractured bone, it was necessary to place three 1,5-centimeter-thick titanium plates, in addition to 11 screws.
The doctor informed that Renato will have a bruise on his face for some time, but he will return to the field in a maximum of seven weeks. The athlete will spend ten days on complete rest and should be discharged within 24 to 48 hours. Flamengo is considering using a mask to protect Renato Augusto's face upon his return.
"Renato was calm and wanted surgery quickly to get rid of the problem. It's an uncommon injury in soccer players, and I believe he'll be able to return to action in six to seven weeks," explained Dr. Augusto.
According to the doctor, Renato Augusto will spend ten days without any type of activity. After this period, he will be able to do physical exercises, which will help him maintain his fitness.
- Everything went as planned. Now we just have to wait the necessary time so he can return to his usual performance - commented the doctor.
Strength of friends
Defender Fábio Luciano spoke about his teammate's injury and lamented Renato Augusto's absence for the upcoming matches. "We were very upset. We received the news at the end of the game. He's a player who puts his all into games and training; we could tell he wanted this to be a special year for him. But he's still young, and his recovery will be quicker than expected. Let's root for him and pray for him," the player said in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
The defender also said that Flamengo players plan to visit Renato Augusto's house after resting.
Readers give Marcinho high marks
Rio - After Flamengo's 2-0 victory over Boavista this Sunday at Maracanã, fans who participated in the Interactive Performance at O Dia Online highlighted the performance of midfielder Marcinho, who received the highest score among the players, 7,8.
Marcinho was instrumental in the team's performance. As soon as he came on, replacing the injured Renato Augusto, the midfielder initiated the play that led to the first goal. Renato Augusto also received a good grade (7,13) and was Flamengo's standout performer in organizing the midfield.
The negative highlight was full-back Juan, with an average rating of 5,56. Fans' ratings reflect reality. Juan's performance was subdued, especially compared to Léo Moura. The right-back had the third-highest rating, 7,51. Fábio Luciano, scorer of the second goal, was second, with 7,73.
Coach Joel Santana was also valued, with a score of 7,21. The other players received a rating below 7. Referee Péricles Bassols received a score of 5,74.
For Boavista, goalkeeper Erivélton stood out, preventing a heavy loss and earning a 6,46 rating. Coach Edinho also received a positive rating, with a 6,08.
Sports Gazette
Jônatas is registered and can debut for Flamengo on Thursday\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Amidst the sadness surrounding Renato Augusto's injury, who required facial surgery due to a sunken cheekbone, Flamengo coach Joel Santana received some good news. The board confirmed that midfielder Jônatas has been registered with the Rio de Janeiro Football Federation (FERJ). Jônatas is now cleared to play in the Campeonato Carioca. Starting this Tuesday, Joel Santana is expected to begin deciding whether to start the player in Thursday's match against Cardoso Moreira at the Maracanã.
Meanwhile, defender and captain Fábio Luciano confirmed that the Flamengo squad will schedule a visit to Renato Augusto as soon as the player leaves the hospital.
Souza celebrates goal and praises Obina's entry\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Just as he had in 2007, when he also found the net against Boavista, striker Souza scored Flamengo's second goal in the 2-0 victory over their rivals this Sunday, in the two teams' debut in the Campeonato Carioca. After the game, the striker praised the importance of scoring in the first official match of the year. "I'm happy to be scoring again for Flamengo. We didn't play well in the first half, but Joel managed to shake us up and we came back stronger in the second half, putting pressure on the opponent," commented the player.
In addition to Joel Santana, Souza also took the opportunity to praise the entry of Obina, with whom he admits to forming a duo for the next games.
"Obina came on very well and played a decisive role in my goal. It's good to have players of this quality in the squad, because when one is struggling, another comes in and improves the team's performance. We can play together from the start," he opined.
For Wednesday's match, Flamengo hopes to have goalkeeper Bruno and midfielder Jônatas available. Both players were unable to participate in the opening match due to documentation issues.
On the other hand, Renato Augusto is expected to be out for up to two months for the Rubro-negro after suffering a sunken cheekbone and two fractures after a violent head-on collision with defender Hélton in the 18th minute of the second half of the match.
One of Renato Augusto's biggest supporters, Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, lamented the young Flamengo player's injury, but preferred to focus on the signings made for this season.
“Of course, Renato Augusto will be sorely missed by Flamengo, but if you don't have a squad, you're not going anywhere,” commented the director.
And the person tasked with finding a replacement for Renato Augusto within Flamengo's squad is Joel Santana. Initially, striker Obina appears to be the favorite to start in Thursday's game against Cardoso Moreira.
Midfielder Marcinho is an outsider in the competition, while striker Diego Tardelli, signed last week, is not yet available for Joel Santana, as he is still recovering from a minor ankle injury.
PeléNet
Renato Augusto undergoes surgery and should be discharged in two days
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo midfielder Renato Augusto underwent surgery without complications. He required reconstruction of part of the bones on the right side of his face due to a depressed cheekbone (reduction of a fractured cheekbone and zygomatic arch). According to the doctor in charge of the procedure, Augusto César Lima, three titanium plates and 11 screws were used.
Renato Augusto underwent surgery to reconstruct part of his facial bones
The operation was carried out this Monday, at the Pasteur Hospital, in Méier, North Zone of the city of Rio de Janeiro.
The route used to reach the site was through the mouth, so there was no need to make a large cut in Renato's face. Only a 2-cm incision was made, but it shouldn't leave a scar.
"After ten days, he will be able to practice physical activities, but he will return to the field in 6 to 7 weeks," said Augusto César Lima.
The player was injured after a clash with Boavista defender Hélton, in a match won by the red-black team 2-0, on Sunday afternoon, at Maracanã, in the opening round of Group A of the State Championship.
Jônatas is expected to make his Flamengo debut on Thursday
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Signed from Espanyol-ESP at the beginning of January, midfielder Jônatas is expected to make his debut for Flamengo in the match against Cardoso Moreira, Thursday, at 19:30 pm (Brasília time), at Maracanã, in the second round of Group A of the Taça Guanabara.
According to the club's football director, Eduardo Manhães, all of the player's documentation has already arrived at the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and now all that's left is for the registration to be formalized.
"Everything is already there and all that's missing is for his name to be published in the IDB (Daily Information Bulletin). But that should happen today (Monday)," the director stressed.
Other pending issues involve goalkeeper Bruno, who is only expected to be cleared to play in two days, and midfielder Léo Medeiros, whose name could be released this Monday in the Bira (Athlete Registration Information Bulletin) of the Rio de Janeiro State Football Federation (Ferj).
"Bruno's situation should be resolved by Wednesday and Léo's should be resolved today. But both should be able to play on Thursday," explained Manhães.
Flamengo captain expresses solidarity with Renato Augusto
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo players are deeply concerned about midfielder Renato Augusto, who underwent surgery to reconstruct part of his facial bones this Monday. On behalf of the Flamengo squad, captain Fábio Luciano expressed his solidarity.
"He's a guy who puts a lot of effort into training and has shown that he wants to give his all this year. We're going to pray hard that his recovery is quick," said the defender.
Renato's operation went without any complications, but doctors had to implant three titanium plates and 11 screws at the site of the injury.
The player is expected to be discharged within 48 hours. When that happens, the entire Flamengo delegation will travel to the midfielder's home to support him.
Full recovery is expected to take about 45 days. However, according to Rubro-Negro physician José Luiz Runco, this timeframe could be shorter.
Renato Augusto was injured after a clash with Boavista defender Hélton, in a match won by the red-black team 2-0, on Sunday afternoon, at Maracanã, in the opening round of the State Championship.
Flamengo continues to fight against high altitude games
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's legal department filed a representation with FIFA last Thursday to prevent games from being held at altitudes above 2.750 meters in the Copa Libertadores.
The previous day (Wednesday, the 16th), President Márcio Braga had already determined that a letter be sent to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), so that the entity could take a stand in defense of the health of Brazilian athletes.
Flamengo has yet to confirm whether it will play any Libertadores matches above the altitude it considers acceptable. This will depend on the match between Cienciano-PER and Wanderers-URU in the knockout stage of the continental tournament. The Peruvian team plays its games in Cuzco, 3.400 meters above sea level.
Doctor says Flamengo midfielder could return earlier than expected
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo doctor José Luiz Runco is optimistic about the recovery of midfielder Renato Augusto, who is undergoing facial surgery due to a sunken cheekbone.
According to the national team's doctor, midfielder Renato Augusto could return earlier than expected.
Based on his extensive professional experience, Runco believes that the initial deadline for the player's return to the field (45 days) can be significantly reduced.
"The recovery will have to be done very calmly. I believe he will be back in forty-five days, but we hope that this time will be reduced," explained the doctor, in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Renato's surgery began at 11 a.m. (Brasília time) at Pasteur Hospital in Méier, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro. The procedure is expected to last three to four hours.
The player was injured after a clash with Boavista defender Hélton, in a match won by the red-black team 2-0, on Sunday afternoon, at Maracanã, in the opening round of the State Championship.
BalloonSport
Renato Augusto undergoes surgery in Rio
Surgery is successful and the player will leave the hospital in the next 48 hours
Eduardo Peixoto
After the scare, recovery. Flamengo midfielder Renato Augusto underwent surgery this Monday to reconstruct the facial bones fractured in a collision with Boavista defender Hélton in the 2008 Carioca Championship debut. The surgery, performed at Pasteur Hospital in Méier, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro, was led by Dr. Augusto César Lima, who was responsible for the player's own deviated nasal septum surgery in 2005.
The three-hour operation was performed through the mouth, requiring a two-centimeter incision in the face. Reconstruction of the fractured bone required the insertion of three 1,5-millimeter-thick titanium plates and 11 screws.
"Everything went as planned. We reduced the fractured cheekbone and repaired the dent in his face. He'll have a bruise for a while, but he'll be back playing in six to seven weeks, as he needs to head the ball. If it were another activity, he'd be back sooner," says Dr. Augusto César Lima, who ordered eight days of complete rest for the player.
Renato Augusto's family, including his mother, Dona Salete, and friends from Flamengo's youth academy were present at the hospital.
"We always have to think positively. Everything will be fine. This was the worst injury he's had; the one at the 2005 U-17 World Cup didn't break anything. I can't even describe what I'm feeling right now," said the midfielder's mother, anxiously awaiting the end of the surgery.
The player, who appeared relieved after the surgery, will be discharged within 24 to 48 hours.
Tardelli wants to debut on Sunday
Striker recovers from ankle pain and can play against Duque de Caxias
Diego Tardelli takes part in his first training session with the ball since joining Flamengo
Diego Tardelli completed his first training session with Flamengo this Monday. The forward is still recovering from a blow to his right ankle suffered in his last training session with São Paulo, but he's already looking forward to making his debut for his new team. Ideally, on Sunday, against Duque de Caxias at Maracanã.
"I still lack confidence in my ability to strike the ball, but I have this week to strengthen my muscles and I think I can play on Sunday. I'm looking forward to my debut," said the striker, who also hopes his transfer is finalized soon so he can play.
Even though he joined Flamengo's squad in less than a week, Diego Tardelli commented on Renato Augusto's two-month absence and noted that the club has players capable of replacing him.
"It's bad to lose a player who was so good. I'll also fight for his spot, but we have other quality players to replace him," he declares.
Good debut surprises Marcinho
Player comes off the bench and participates in Flamengo's first goal against Boavista
Marcinho's Flamengo debut couldn't have gone better. Coming off the bench and, in his first game in the red-and-black jersey, he set up the team's first goal in their first State Championship victory, a 2-0 victory over Boavista (watch the video below). But the midfielder wants even more and hopes to get more chances to show Joel Santana that he can start.
"It was very quick and a surprise. It was a good game, and I helped Flamengo. Now it's time to follow up, even if I only play five or ten minutes. I have to commit and show my worth. If I get the chance, I have to take it. I try to put in the effort in training to do well in the games, especially because this group is very qualified," he stated.
With Renato Augusto's injury, which will sideline him for two months, Marcinho could earn a starting spot. In the early stages, the player wants to show Joel his skills:
"I wanted to join the team in a different way, not because of a teammate's injury. Joel didn't make any difference if I played. But if I do play, even if it's only for a short time again, the important thing is to take advantage of the opportunities and keep helping Flamengo keep winning."
Espanyol releases Jônatas' documentation
Flamengo complies with requirements and awaits paperwork to regularize the player
Jônatas has been released by Espanyol to make his debut with Flamengo
Midfielder Jônatas has been cleared to play for Flamengo. After Espanyol requested the Spanish Football Federation to send the player's international registration, the club will receive the document that will allow him to register for the Campeonato Carioca. The new signing was left out of the Flamengo's debut against Boavista on Sunday.
The Spanish club was waiting for Flamengo to meet the agreed-upon financial requirements for the loan: assuming the player's salary and paying €1 million for the midfielder's loan for a year and a half. Despite his transfer to the Brazilian team, Jônatas remains tied to Espanyol, the team with which he signed a contract until 2010.
Fla presents document against altitude
The club sent a document to the CBF to intervene with Conmebol
Flamengo president Márcio Braga fulfilled his promise and sent a letter to the CBF last Wednesday requesting that FIFA's measure banning soccer matches in cities above 2.750 meters above sea level be defended at CONMEBOL, as reported by GLOBOESPORTE.COM on January 12. The top seed in Group 4 of the Libertadores, Flamengo, has not yet confirmed any games at altitude. But this will happen if Cienciano-PER defeats Wanderers-URU in the knockout stage of the South American tournament. The Peruvian team plays its games in Cuzco, at 3.400 meters above sea level.
According to the Libertadores regulations, a club must contact CONMEBOL through the CBF. The controversy will be discussed at the organization next Tuesday, and Brazil's representative will be Marco Polo Del Nero, president of the São Paulo Football Federation.
Flamengo's board is also considering the possibility of taking direct action with FIFA.
Throw
Renato Augusto undergoes successful surgery
Renato Augusto undergoes surgery for a facial fracture. Learn all the details of the surgical procedure.
Supporter Renato Augusto, who fractured two bones in his face during Flamengo's victory over Boavista, underwent successful surgery this Monday. The three-hour surgery was performed at Pasteur Hospital in Méier, Rio de Janeiro. The player's expected recovery time is six to seven weeks. Renato will remain in the hospital and is expected to be discharged within 24 to 48 hours.
The surgery involved the application of three titanium plates (each 1,5 millimeters) and 11 screws (each 5 millimeters). Technically, the fracture of the malar and zygomatic arch bones was reduced.
The doctor also assured that he will rest for seven to ten days. After that, the player will be able to do everything except head the ball. Renato Augusto received stitches, although Augusto César Lima didn't need them, as there were too many.
This isn't the first time a player has suffered an injury like Renato Augusto's. In the 2007 Brazilian Championship alone, three players suffered a broken cheekbone. Fabiano, Náutico's goalkeeper, was injured in a game against Atlético-PR. When he recovered, he lost his spot to reserve Eduardo. Cruzeiro's full-back Jonathan also suffered a poor performance after a challenge with Sport's Carlinhos Bala in late November and is only now returning. Alex Mineiro clashed heads with Grêmio's Evandro and not only fractured his cheekbone but also his nose. He was sidelined for 90 days.
Other notable facial injuries were suffered by Viola and American Tab Ramos. The striker was injured in the final match between Palmeiras and Vasco in 1997, colliding with Vasco's midfielder Nasa. The American player suffered an elbow from Leonardo in the round of 16 of the World Cup and left the match bleeding.
Fla sends official letter to CBF about altitude
Representation to FIFA was also filed last week
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo president Marcio Braga sent a request to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) last Wednesday asking the entity to take a stand in defense of the health of Brazilian athletes and demand that FIFA's determination, prohibiting games above 2.750 meters in altitude, be observed in official games.
Flamengo's lawyers filed a representation with FIFA last Thursday to prevent games at altitudes above 2.750 meters in the Libertadores.
See below the official letter sent to the CBF:
"Rio de Janeiro, January 16, 2008
Brazilian Football Confederation\ Att.: Mr. Marco Antonio Teixeira\ General Secretary\
Most Illustrious Sir,
The FIFA Executive Committee, meeting in Tokyo on December 15, 2007, prohibited the holding of football matches, in its competitions, above 2.750 meters in altitude.
This decision was motivated by the recommendation of doctors specializing in the effects of altitude who participated in the seminar held in October 2007 at FIFA headquarters in Zurich.
We draw your attention to the opinion of our doctors, which is attached and concludes: “practicing physical activity at altitudes above 2.600 meters puts the health and even the lives of participants at risk.”
You can't play with people's lives.
Article 9, 9.1, of the Regulations of the SANTANDER LIBERTADORES DA AMÉRICA CUP states that the matches of this competition will observe the conditions and measures required for official FIFA competitions.
Therefore, in accordance with article 1, 1.8, of the Regulations of the SANTANDER LIBERTADORES DA AMERICA CUP, we request that you contact the CONMEBOL Executive Committee, which will meet in Santiago on January 22, so that it expressly adopts the limitation established by FIFA and that games are not held at extreme altitudes, which represent a serious risk to the lives of athletes.
Without further ado, we renew our assurances of the highest consideration and make ourselves available to, if possible, participate in this CONMEBOL meeting and defend this issue.
Best Regards,
MARCIO BAROUKEL DE SOUZA BRAGA\ FLAMENGO REGATTA CLUB"\
Fábio Luciano: 'Everyone has their merit'
Flamengo defender shares with teammates how the team grew last year
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Flamengo captain Fábio Luciano arrived midway through last year's Brasileirão and earned the fans' trust. But the defender, who scored a goal in the 2-0 victory over Boavista, refuses to accept the idea that he single-handedly changed Flamengo's defense.
Fábio Luciano shares the credit with his teammates for the team's increased production from the middle of the 2007 Brazilian Championship, which coincided with his arrival, until the beginning of this year.
"It wasn't me or Ibson, for example, who put the team together. Everyone has their merits. The increase in production is also due to Joel's good work, the harmony, the affinity, and the support everyone gives each other," he stated.
Fábio Luciano also commented on the fact that he was known as the sheriff, for always giving instructions to his companions:
"The group welcomes my suggestions, especially given my experience. Léo Moura and Ibson also provide guidance," he added.
Jesus changes his tune in Rio's futsal
A standout for Vasco da Gama last season, the pivot swaps Vasco for arch-rival Flamengo in search of titles in 2008.
Jesus (right) playing for Vasco against his current club, Flamengo, in the 2007 State Championship (Credit: Personal archive)
Felipe David RIO DE JANEIRO
Flamengo turned to its biggest rival to bolster its futsal team in 2008. After reaching the semifinals of the 2007 Metropolitan and State Championships, the Gávea club dreams of titles this season. To that end, it sought out its main reinforcements from São Januário: center Jesus and wingers Marcelino and Douglas, who will be joining the rest of the squad in Gávea this Monday.
At the beginning of the year, speculation suggested that Vasco would poach two of Flamengo's biggest futsal talents: wingers Diego Panazio, named Rio de Janeiro's best player in 2007, and Michel Marques. However, Vasco surprised everyone by not only renewing contracts with Michel and Diego, but also bringing back the three players from their rivals.
The standout signing is Jesus. The striker was Vasco's standout player last season. The pivot was the team's top scorer in the State Championship, netting six goals. However, they were eliminated by Flamengo in the quarterfinals, just as they were in the Metropolitan Championship. Now, the player is on the other side. After leaving Vasco/Vassouras, he is eager for the opportunity to play for the Gávea team in 2008.
"It's a great opportunity to work at Flamengo, especially alongside these guys, whom I've known for a long time. The squad is very strong, and I'm eager to get back to training and start playing. I hope to add to the group and help the team have a good season," said Jesus.
In addition to the former Vasco players, Flamengo also signed Betão, formerly of Macaé, and Filé, who played for Canto do Rio. Coach Cid Escarlate will also be able to count on last year's core squad. Key players such as goalkeeper Breno, center Rafael Sixel, the experienced Charles, and defensive tackle Dudu have renewed their contracts with the Gávea team. Dudu, the team captain in 2007, can't wait to step onto the court again.
"I'm very excited. The team's core has been maintained, reinforcements have arrived, and I hope we maintain the level we saw in 2007. And I'm also looking forward to the championships starting soon," he said.
With the overhaul, the Flamengo board dreams of an even better campaign than in 2007, when Flamengo reached the semifinals of both tournaments and had the best player (a trophy shared between Gabriel and Diego Panazio) and the best coach (Cid Escarlarte) of the season. The club's futsal supervisor, Tito, believes in a year of victories on the court:
"The expectation for 2008 is that the team will win titles and that the level of Flamengo's adult futsal will continue to rise. The team has strengthened, and I think we can have as good a year as 2007."
Flamengo's new goal-scoring hope also believes in a good season for the team in 2008. However, he warns of the already traditional danger of teams from the interior, which, like Rubro-Negro, have strengthened themselves for this year's championships.
"Flamengo always has to enter competitions wanting titles. If they reached the semifinals last year with that group, now, even stronger, they have a chance of winning the title. But of course, we have to be careful with the teams from the interior, which have also strengthened significantly," he analyzed.
The presentation of the new red-and-black futsal squad is this Monday night. Starting at 20 p.m., the team will hold its first meeting of the year at the Hélio Maurício Gymnasium in Gávea.
Check out the athlete's x-ray:
Full Name: Diego Gonçalves Batalha\ Nickname: Jesus\ Date of Birth: 09/26/1983\ Age: 24 years old\ Height: 1,86 m\ Weight: 82 kg\ Previous Clubs: Grajaú Country and Vasco da Gama\
Collaborated with Thiago Barros (stars of the future)
Toró dissatisfied with performances at Fla
Player believes the team still has a lot to improve
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo midfielder Toró wasn't entirely satisfied with the 2-0 victory over Boavista this Sunday at Maracanã. He believes the Flamengo squad's performance on the field wasn't well-executed.
radio l! - We are working to reach the ideal - he says. (Click and hear more)
Toró believes that there are aspects that need to be improved on the team and that, from the third match onwards, the group will be playing better.
radio l! - Missing the final pass, the grip, the dedication. There's still a lot to get right. (Click and listen to more)
Souza admits that Fla did not play well
However, the striker says he is satisfied with the goal against Boavista.
LANCEPRESS!
Striker Souza couldn't hide his joy at scoring in Flamengo's opening game in the Campeonato Carioca against Boavista this Sunday. However, he admitted the team didn't have a strong first half.
radio l! - Joel gave us a shake in the locker room and asked us to push a little harder. We started pressing and managed to get the result - he analyzes. (Click and hear more)
As he was feeling the pace of the game, Souza chose to position himself inside the area, which, for the player, made his job easier.
radio l! - Strikers thrive on goals. When they stay in the box more, they'll have more opportunities, and this time was no different - (Click and listen more)