The Globe
Kleber: 'Ronaldo will decide his future'
The club is betting on partners who will explore the Phenomenon's image in Asia.
KLEBER LEITE: The vice president of football is optimistic about Ronaldo's arrival
Márcio Tavares
Despite Milan's official statements on its website announcing that it has not authorized Flamengo to negotiate Ronaldo's signing, the end of the year promises to be exciting in Angra dos Reis. The task force created by Kleber Leite, Flamengo's vice president of football, to facilitate the signing of the Phenomenon leaves tomorrow for the popular tourist region of Costa Verde, where the player will spend New Year's Eve, with some points regarding the plan to repatriate him.
Flamengo knows it needs powerful partners to sign a player of Ronaldo's caliber. One of those tasked with this task, Plínio Serpa Pinto, former vice president of football during Kleber's presidency, revealed yesterday that, in addition to Nike, a natural partnership, he already has a few options in mind.
"This is a short-term negotiation. We need to explore markets where Ronaldo's image has guaranteed and natural penetration. That is, Asia, because of his performance in the 2002 World Cup. We'll direct much of our search for partners in this direction. We already have two or three companies in mind," said Plínio.
He didn't reveal his contact details, but the target companies are cell phone and electronics providers, as well as car manufacturers, which compete even more fiercely in Asia than in Brazil. And Ronaldo's image, thanks to his decisive performance in the 2002 World Cup, is a guarantee of success.
Despite the furor and questions sparked by the possibility of the top scorer's repatriation, Flamengo's position is very clear:
"He told me he wants to come. Milan isn't a selling club. Therefore, it wouldn't make sense for Flamengo to approach the club with an offer. Flamengo will gather the necessary elements to show Ronaldo that his arrival will be a good deal, a chance to revive his life. We'll show him that we have companies and partners capable of guaranteeing an exceptional contract until December 2010 and then keeping him as an ambassador for a global project for underprivileged children that we're planning. Ronaldo is the one who has to decide if it's right for him and then approach Milan and convince the directors that he wants to come," explained Kleber Leite.
When stating that Flamengo intends to transfer the mission of convincing Milan to Ronaldo, Kleber did not rule out the possibility of discussing the matter with Adriano Galliani, vice-general of the Italian club, who will also spend New Year's Eve in Angra:
"It's all a huge coincidence, but I had already arranged to go to Angra before this story broke. The person who's talking directly to Galliani is Ronaldo's attorney. But if the opportunity arises, we'll talk. I'm sure that if not now, it will be in July. I had a very good feeling when I spoke with Ronaldo's attorney on Tuesday night. This confidence was reinforced in a new meeting I had today (yesterday). I'm sensing a highly favorable conspiracy."
Gavilán's presentation is postponed to today.
The negotiations postponed the presentation of Paraguayan midfielder Gavilán until today and overshadowed interest in 23-year-old striker Diego Tardelli. This signing also presents its obstacles.
"Diego's situation isn't going well, no. Some minor issues have arisen, and since his agent is traveling out of the country, the decision has been postponed," commented Kleber Leite, who downplayed the striker's reputation for trouble. "No, he's only been married for a short time..."
Fla and Botafogo debut at home in the Brazilian Championship
Flu and Vasco start away in the 2008 Serie A
Flamengo and Botafogo will debut in the 2008 Brazilian Championship in Rio, facing Santos and Sport, respectively, on the weekend of May 10th and 11th. The competition schedule was released yesterday by the CBF, but the precise date, time, and stadium are still unknown. Even though the venue has not yet been announced, Flamengo is expected to play at Maracanã and Botafogo at Engenhão. Vasco and Fluminense play their first match away: Vasco faces Internacional, and Fluminense faces Atlético-MG.
The Brazilian Serie A Championship, with 20 clubs and 38 rounds, will begin on May 10th and will have its final round with all matches on December 7th, a Sunday. In this final round, the Rio de Janeiro team will face the following matches: Fluminense vs. Ipatinga-MG; Atlético-PR vs. Flamengo; Vasco vs. Vitória; and Palmeiras vs. Botafogo. The rules are the same as in previous years, with the last four teams relegated to Serie B.
In the second round, on May 17th or 18th, Fluminense and Vasco will play in Rio, against Náutico and Portuguesa, respectively. Flamengo will face Grêmio in Porto Alegre, while Botafogo will face Cruzeiro in Belo Horizonte. The first derby between the Rio teams will take place in the third round: Botafogo vs. Vasco. The fourth round will feature the Fla-Flu match.
São Paulo, two-time champions in 2006/2007 and fighting for the first three-peat in the competition's history, will debut against Grêmio at Morumbi Stadium. Interestingly, the four clubs that were promoted from Série B - Vitória, Ipatinga-MG, Portuguesa and Coritiba, the 1985 Série A champions - will have the support of their fans in the first round, as they are playing at home: Vitória vs. Cruzeiro; Portuguesa vs. Figueirense; Coritiba vs. Palmeiras; and Ipatinga-MG vs. Atlético-PR.
Corinthians begins its fight in SP
Série B, also featuring 20 clubs and 38 rounds, will begin on May 9th, with the final round, including all matches, on November 29th. The top four teams will be promoted to the First Division, and the bottom four will be relegated to Série C. Corinthians, four-time Série A champions (1990, 1998, 1999, and 2005), will debut in the Second Division against CRB at home—Pacaembu will likely be Corinthians' home ground in the competition. Afterwards, the team, led by Mano Menezes, will play two matches away from São Paulo: against Gama and ABC-RN. In the fourth round, the São Paulo team will host Fortaleza.
Série B features a clash between two former Brazilian First Division champions: Corinthians and Bahia (winners in 1988) are scheduled for the 12th round in São Paulo. In the second round, the two teams will face each other in the 31st round in Salvador, on October 14, 17, or 18. Closed since the accident that killed seven people in Bahia's last Série B match in 2007, Fonte Nova has not been confirmed as the venue for the match. Bahia's Second Division debut will be at home against Fortaleza.
Among the other teams relegated from the First Division, Paraná is the only one starting at home: against Avaí on May 9th or 10th. Juventude and América-RN will play away from home. The Gauchos will face Ceará, while the Americans play Criciúma.
More than 40 thousand faithful at Midnight Mass
Maracanã's top scorer, Zico returns to his temple today with Flamengo, champion of 87
ZICO HOLDS UP a replica of the soccer trophy given to him by the fans, who are asking for a bust of their idol in Maracanã
Pedro Motta Gueiros
For much of the second half of the defeat to Italy in the '82 World Cup, Zico sacrificed himself like a winger, receiving few passes, and suffering in silence. A year earlier, in the 6-0 victory over Botafogo, he cheered like a fan ready to settle old scores with his rival. Between joys and sorrows, he never played looking at the ball or at his navel. A symbol of individual talent applied collectively, at 54, he still upholds his principles. Committed to bringing in stars to increase the fundraising for his charity event, the idol didn't even realize that the four letters of his name alone are enough to fill his temple with fans and memories. As of yesterday afternoon, nearly 45 people had already purchased tickets to see Flamengo '87 play a team of Zico's friends, tonight at 20:30 p.m., at Maracanã.
"Our focus is on bringing in international stars, but we can't single them out. The most important thing is to help someone at the end of the year," he said, unaware that he is still the biggest attraction at Maracanã. "If you think about that, you'll see nothing, just a pot-bellied guy playing soccer."
Hope for goals despite few fouls among veterans
Current Fenerbahce coach Zico still plays at a high level when he's in bed. While asleep, he's even given passes to today's guest, Obina, to score goals for Flamengo. Fans also often dream about their idol. Now, the two sides of the red-and-black marriage will embrace in the stadium. If the fans were able to sing their love for the team of Souza, Juan, and Toró, what will they do in front of Maracanã's all-time top scorer, with 333 goals in 435 matches?
"It's been a while since I played there in front of a crowd. But I used to play in front of 150 people. I'm not going to try to do anything I can't do, or I'll get into trouble."
With his hair falling out and his confidence plummeting, even his free-kick taking skills haven't stood the test of time. Recently, after finishing a training session in Turkey, he was challenged to show off his technique to his goalkeeper. After adjusting his aim on the first few shots, he unleashed a string of unstoppable shots that he no longer expects to repeat:
"There, I was able to warm up. Old cars take a while to start. The problem is that in a game, one or two chances arise. And in an old-timer's game, there aren't many fouls."
Since his farewell in 90, the star has only returned to Maracanã to play for Vasco alongside his friend Dinamite, to defend the Madureira veterans alongside his brothers, and in a charity match with Ronaldo and Michael Schumacher. In his dreams, the Galinho still does everything. He concentrates on decisions, runs, and celebrates as if he were at his peak. Yesterday, the fans already started pinching him to show that their passion never slumbers. In addition to demanding that the CBF recognize the fifth Brazilian title, a petition is calling for a bust of Zico at Maracanã. Just as he did in 87, as captain of that team, he held up a replica of the trophy and ignored the controversy that São Paulo is the only five-time winner:
"I have no doubt that I was Brazilian champion in '87. The day after the final, at 8 a.m., I was already in the hospital for knee surgery. I will never allow that to be taken away from me with the stroke of a pen."
Sport, the CBF champion, has been lost in time. Flamengo, however, is still alive today. With the exception of Jorginho, all the starters will be present, including Renato Gaúcho, Fluminense's coach. Besides Seedorf and Marta, another notable absence will be the red-and-black jersey.
"In previous editions, we've never played in Flamengo jerseys. I don't even know what the colors will be, but I hope there will be something black and red," said Zico.
Among the international guests, Vágner Love and Carlos Alberto are confirmed. Deco hasn't confirmed. It doesn't matter. Besides Zico, his contemporaries like Roberto Dinamite, Adílio, and Mauro Galvão will be there to celebrate the great moments at Maracanã. Ronaldo is injured, but he's always welcome, whether at the party, at Flamengo, or at Fernebahce, should he agree to leave Milan:
"There comes a time when the calf becomes a serious problem. I went through that. First, Ronaldo has to take care of himself to play again. If it's for Flamengo, even better."
Tickets on sale in Gávea, Laranjeiras and Maracanã
Scoring a goal at the Maracanã is one of the few goals Ronaldo lacks. In this regard, Zico is more than accomplished.
- I don't miss it, because I enjoyed every moment I lived - he said.
While in previous editions, even Maradona's presence was confined to the modest facilities of the CFZ, the passion for the '87 title is as big as the Maracanã. Starting at 11 a.m. today, tickets will be on sale at Gávea, Laranjeiras, and Maracanã, with tickets priced at R$6 (seats) and R$10 (grandstands), with half-price tickets for students. Before Zico, everyone becomes an apprentice. Still in the Christmas spirit, there's a Midnight Mass at Maracanã today. May the lord of solidarity football and the best Flamengo of all time be with you always. Amen.
Sports Journal
Riot police for Ronaldo
The board is calling on a veritable army to convince Milan to release the striker.
Thiago Bokel
y
Plinio Serpa Pinto, Kleber Leite and Ricardo Hinrichsen are committed to the mission of getting Ronaldo to sign for Flamengo
Now there's no point in the board denying it. Ronaldo is truly Flamengo's dream player for 2008. And to succeed in this new mission, a veritable "shock troop" was assembled, consisting of vice president of football Kleber Leite, collaborator Plinio Serpa Pinto, vice president of finance José Carlos Dias, and vice president of marketing Ricardo Hinrichsen. All of them report to the "general commander," Marcio Braga.
Signing the Phenomenon won't be easy, but Flamengo has a strong ally in persuading Milan's management: the striker's desire to play for the club. Furthermore, the board is backed by Nestlé, which is reportedly providing funds to pay part of the player's salary.
"In opportunities like this, bringing in one of the best players in the world, partners emerge willing to help with this project, especially because he's a player of Ronaldo's stature. It won't be easy, as there are natural obstacles to overcome. We understand that this is the right time and the player wants to come. I'm hopeful. It's a life project for him; he was supposed to stay with us until December 2010 and still dreams of playing in the World Cup," said Kleber Leite.
The director, in fact, met with the player's representative, Fabiano Farah, last Tuesday night, and is now trying to schedule a meeting with Milan's vice president general manager, Adriano Galliani, who is in Rio for the end-of-year holidays. He also confirmed that he will be with Ronaldo in the coming days, as the two will spend New Year's Eve in Angra dos Reis.
It's worth remembering that Plinio Serpa Pinto was Kleber Leite's vice president of football when he was president of Flamengo and managed to sign Romário, considered the best player in the world at the time. "Plinio is a great negotiator. I can't guarantee that Ronaldo will come now or in June, when his contract with Milan ends, but I could die for this project," the director exaggerated.
Flamengo dives headfirst into the Ronaldo Phenomenon Project
Flamengo has fully immersed itself in the project to bring in Ronaldo Fenômeno, currently at Milan. The player would not be coming on loan, but as a permanent acquisition. But the negotiations are not easy, as some of the Italian club's executives are unaware of the discussions. According to Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, it's not going to lead to anything, but he confirms that the five-time champion's possible arrival is well underway.
"It's not an easy negotiation, but we're making good progress. We've made progress in a short space of time. I met with Fabiano (Farah, Ronaldo's agent), and the conversation was productive. This is a development that's being made within the club's marketing department. The project could be more successful than anyone imagined," said Kléber Leite in an interview with Rádio Globo.
Asked if the project to bring in the Phenomenon would have any similarity to the arrival of Romário in 1995, Kleber rejected any comparison and said that the club's board will act calmly in conducting negotiations.
"The only similarity is that they're both football geniuses. But these are distinct, yet equally complicated, situations. Which doesn't mean it's unfeasible, because here at Flamengo, that doesn't exist. I can't guarantee that the negotiation will be finalized, but I can say that we'll die on the field for this project. Milan is an ally, not an enemy. Our relationship with them is the best possible. Now that we've started, let's see where this story ends," concluded the Flamengo director.
Zico returns to Maracanã today
Flamengo fans will travel back in time today at 20:30 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium. Zico, the club's greatest idol in history, will be hosting the "All-Star Game," a traditional gathering of great players he organizes every year-end.
This will be the first time the party will be held at Maracanã. Previously, Zico would gather his friends at the CFZ field. And for a game like this, the fans will turn out in large numbers. So far, more than 42 tickets have been sold, and at least 50 are expected to attend the stadium. Tickets will be sold today at Maracanã ticket booths 5 and 8, with bleachers costing R$10 and blue seats R$6.
"It's an event that gains importance every year due to the international names that come to Brazil. This year I tried to bring Baggio and Platini, but they couldn't come," explained Zico, who will bring together the 1987 Copa União champions, which will be coached by Carlinhos.
In addition to Obina, Deco, Adriano, Seedorf, Emerson, Nakata, Vágner Love, Ibson, Léo Moura, Arce, Gamarra, Raí, Denilson, and Carlos Alberto have already been confirmed. Vanderlei Luxemburgo will lead the 'Friends of Zico'.
Diego Tardelli could be next
In addition to signing Ronaldo, Flamengo is interested in another striker: Diego Tardelli, currently a reserve at São Paulo and previously playing for São Caetano, Betis in Spain, and PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands, could be signed in the coming days. Vice President of Football Kleber Leite has admitted interest in the player.
"It's a good name, and there's really something in the air. We're trying to reach a definitive agreement with São Paulo, and besides Ronaldo, who is a long-term plan, this would be our last reinforcement for 2008. The problem is that his agent is traveling, but we're trying to resolve that," explained the director.
The striker's reputation for undisciplined behavior doesn't bother the vice president of football, as he says Tardelli has matured: "He recently got married and wants to make a change in his life. He's also already shown his passion for our project. It's well underway," he admitted.
Signing a striker is considered crucial for Flamengo this year. Besides Souza, the club only has Argentine Maxi Biancucchi, Obina, Kayke, and Paulo Sérgio to form the attacking midfield.
Midfielder Renato Augusto, who could be another option for coach Joel Santana, has already publicly stated that he no longer wants to play improvised attacking roles.
Flamengo and Botafogo debut in the 2008 Brazilian Championship in RJ
The CBF released the 2008 Brazilian Serie A Championship schedule this Wednesday. Botafogo and Flamengo will debut in the Brasileirão playing at home. The black-and-white team hosts Sport, and the red-and-black team faces Santos. Vasco and Fluminense will play their first match away from Rio. The former faces Internacional at Beira-Rio, and the latter faces Atlético-MG at Mineirão. The competition begins on May 10th.
The first Rio derby will be held in the third round, between Botafogo and Vasco, on May 25th. In the following round, on May 31st and June 1st, the second will take place, between Fluminese and Flamengo.
Maria Helena Braun
By Letter
Hail 2008!
Maria Helena Braun mbraun@jsports.com.br
Let's say 2007 revived Rio de Janeiro football. I know you'll say that the Fla-Flu duo reached the top four but failed to convince, that it was more due to the incompetence of their opponents than their own merits, that Flamengo was driven by their immense fan base, and that Fluminense kept coming and coming, as if they were aiming for nothing, and ended up like this: fourth place, one behind Flamengo, in an honorable third place. Well, I don't think you, reader, are entirely wrong. In fact, what happened in the Brazilian Championship wasn't exactly eye-catching. Fla rallied from 1-0 to 1-0, one of those very narrow ones, in games where the fans counted the seconds until the final whistle. Flu also had poor performances, even sleepy, since they didn't have a raucous crowd like Flamengo's to keep everyone awake. But the truth is that the Fla-Flu duo, despite all its drawbacks, honored Rio's football, silenced many good people, and made 2007 the year of Rio pride. Yes, that's right, pride, because in 2008 none of the big four will experience the discomfort of playing classics in the second division. Because two clubs are in the Libertadores and two more in the South American. And there's euphoria! But a euphoria that's good for you. It's great to see the red-and-black team shouting "Tokyo," in a highly optimistic allusion to a possible world title win, or to hear on the Tricolor street corners that "the machine is back." What better way to lift the spirits and self-esteem of a people who only see Rio in the police news?
Well, bring on the Libertadores and the South American Cup. 2008 will be different. Flamengo is assembling a respectable team, with Ibson, Kleberson, Renato Augusto, Leonardo Moura, Bruno, Gavilan, and Jônatas. Is it possible or not to face the battle? Flu is also trying to get its house in order, with Washington, Dodô, and more to come. So, yes, it's possible to dream. Vasco and Botafogo are more modest in their acquisitions, perhaps in their ambitions, but let no one underestimate them. Anyway, that's why 2007, which just passed, will be remembered as the year in which Rio de Janeiro football pulled itself out of the mud and returned to the red carpets—or rather, the green carpets, where the ball rolls smoothly, with teams that once again dream of titles and leave behind the battle against relegation, which already seemed like the fate of Rio de Janeiro. Hail 2008! Long live Rio de Janeiro football!
O Dia
Elite troop to 'arrest' the Phenomenon
Mengão sets up a task force to convince Milan director, on vacation in Rio, to release Ronaldo
Rodrigo Lima
Rio - Only an 'elite squad' can make Flamengo's dream of having Ronaldo at Gávea come true. Yesterday, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, announced that the club has formed a 'task force' to sign the "Phenomenon." The striker's contract with Milan runs until July 2008, but the director will meet today with the Italian club's vice president general, Adriano Galliani, who is on vacation in Rio, to formalize Flamengo's interest and try to move forward with the signing of the striker.
Kléber did not disclose the amount, but the idea to repatriate Ronaldo would be similar to the one that brought Romário to the club in 1995. Flamengo wants the Phenomenon to be released permanently to reach an agreement with the club for a three-year contract, so that he can play in the 2010 World Cup.
"Adriano Galliani will be spending New Year's Eve here in Rio. We'll have plenty of opportunities to talk to him. The project requires a lot of inspiration and a lot of perspiration. I can't guarantee that we'll succeed. But my teammates and I will die for this project," Kléber stated.
The striker, who is currently vacationing in Angra dos Reis, in the southern region of Rio de Janeiro, has already expressed interest in joining Flamengo and even admitted taking a 50% salary cut to play for his beloved club. Ronaldo earns approximately R$750 a month at Milan.
Furthermore, Flamengo is offering a "life project" that could last until 2010 and then continue in the form of a social campaign. "Our intention is for Ronaldo to end his career at Flamengo. We can't let a star of Ronaldo's caliber, who is only comparable to Zico and Romário, want to come and play for Flamengo. I believe the time to bring him to play here is now," revealed an excited Kléber Leite, who will meet the Phenomenon in Angra to spend New Year's Eve.
Idol can help club fill the coffers
Bringing back an idol can be a good way to fill the coffers. This assertion is based on a conversation with sports marketing consultant João Henrique Areias, who was previously Flamengo's vice president of marketing. According to the former director, if the deal goes through, the club could reap significant profits.
"The initiative is very good. I don't doubt that Kléber Leite will succeed, as he managed to bring Romário back in 1995. The question is establishing the necessary actions to complete the deal. Bringing an idol back to the country is highly positive," Areias told Globoesporte.com.
The consultant believes that Flamengo has plenty of potential to sign the Milan player and points out ways for the return to be a success off the field as well.
João Henrique Areias is particularly committed to the passion of Brazil's largest fan base. The first step is to analyze all possible partnerships with the club's current sponsors, Nike and Petrobras, and with the fans, who are Flamengo's main partners. "In the case of Petrobras, it would provide fantastic media coverage. Ronaldo could be the multinational's poster boy and take the brand worldwide. In the case of Nike, it's even easier, as his image is already being exploited by the company," he comments.
Areias has no doubt that selling Ronaldo's Flamengo jersey would be a success. The consultant's calculation is simple. "The number the market is working with to reach Flamengo's jersey sales estimates is 30 million fans, according to research. If you get a 4% return on this total (1,2 million jerseys), that's considered wonderful, it's very good. The fans have already shown they love the team and want to help. This potential needs to be tapped," he emphasizes.
Areias cites another popular team as another example of a successful marketing campaign. "Corinthians launched a kit ("I'll never abandon you because I love you") and is a huge success. In nine days, they sold 50 units. Fans buy a shirt, a wristband, and a sticker. Each one costs R$44,90. But it can't be the team's game jersey, which is very expensive. It has to be something simple, and it's possible to make a kit like this without any problems and achieve results," he recommends.
Diego Tardelli in Gávea
Rio - While Ronaldo waits for his arrival, Kléber Leite confirmed yesterday the signing of another striker for the Libertadores Cup and to complete the squad: Diego Tardelli. The player, currently tied to São Paulo, has reportedly already agreed to a transfer to Gávea. "Negotiations are well advanced. I consulted Joel Santana about the player, and he approved. He's a reinforcement for our attack," said Kléber.
São Paulo has reportedly already accepted the forward's transfer, as the São Paulo club has Adriano, Dagoberto, and Aloísio, among others, for the position. The only remaining issue to close the deal would be the final word from the player's agent. "For now, the deal hasn't been finalized because the agent is in Europe. Flamengo intends to acquire Tardelli permanently. This would complete the squad. Except, of course, if Ronaldo arrives," stated Kléber Leite, confirming that Tardelli's signing wouldn't fill a gaping hole if Ronaldo's acquisition doesn't happen.
Not even Tardelli's reputation as a bohemian, who was even dropped from the squad by coach Muricy Ramalho, could derail the negotiations. "I spoke with the player, and he revealed that he wants to change his life, to have a new chance, as he recently got married. I believe he has a changed mind and serious intentions," concluded Kléber.
With approval of Galo
Zico wants Ronaldo at Flamengo, but makes a reservation: he must be physically fit.
Janir Junior
Rio - Zico recalled Flamengo's glorious past and commented on a phenomenal future for Flamengo. Yesterday, while giving a press conference to discuss the All-Star Game, which will take place today at 20:30 p.m. at the Maracanã, "Galinho" (The Little Rooster) happily recalled the four-time Brazilian champion team of 1987, which will be on the field soon, and gave his opinion on Ronaldo's potential deal with the Gávea club.
For Zico, the idea is excellent, but he requires careful consideration of Ronaldo's condition. "For us, Flamengo fans, if he goes to Flamengo, it's excellent. Every team wants Ronaldo, but he needs to be fit to play. These days, quality alone isn't enough; you need to be physically fit. Well, he's a factor in imbalance. Anyone would love to have a player of his caliber," said the Galinho, who, however, issued a warning:
"I went through similar problems to him. You reach a certain age and calf injuries get worse. You have to be careful."
Zico declined to invite Ronaldo to play in today's game. "He's injured, but he doesn't even need an invitation. He just shows up, puts on the jersey, and plays," Zico said.
As of yesterday, 45 tickets had already been sold. Zico humbly shared the responsibility with other stars who will participate in the charity match. The proceeds will go to charities. "We have several good players. Anyone who watches Zico will see a big-bellied guy chasing the ball," he joked.
From the '87 squad, only Jorginho won't be present. Leandro will attend the party, but won't play. "That team was a Brazilian team, one of the most star-studded in Flamengo's history. The technical level was fantastic, and if we were playing in a points-based competition today, I think we'd have a big lead," believes Zico.
Whenever he talks about the past, Zico doesn't resort to nostalgia. He says he enjoyed every moment. Today, he reveals he's just dreaming. "I've dreamed since my childhood in Quintino and with the games. My biggest dream was to wear Flamengo's number 10 jersey, and God gave it to me. I even dreamed of passing to Obina to score! Who knows, maybe it will come true in this game?" jokes Zico. Who knows, maybe in the future, the Galo's one-twos in his dreams will take on a more phenomenal tone?
'I raised the true cup'
"I lifted the real one," Zico joked, after receiving a shirt emblazoned with Flamengo's five-time champion and the Styrofoam Cup. Afterwards, Galinho spoke about the controversy surrounding the 1987 title. "I won my fourth title in '87. They'll never take that away from me with the stroke of a pen. There's no doubt about it. We fought for that victory. The day after the title, I was in the hospital at 8 a.m. for knee surgery," Zico recalled.
ALEX IN THE SELECTION
Fenerbahçe coach Zico also commented on the Turkish team: "We're facing Sevilla in the Champions League, it will be tough. 2007 was a very good year for us. I arrived at the club based on winning, staying, not winning, saying goodbye."
Zico also commented on Alex. "He's one of the most intelligent Brazilian players in the game. I'd give him the jersey without a second thought," said Zico, who also spoke about the Turkish team's fans: "They're fanatical, it's crazy."
Sports Gazette
Kléber Leite is cautious, but maintains his dream of having Ronaldo
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After announcing its intention to sign striker Ronaldo for the 2008 season, Flamengo backtracked and adopted a cautious stance regarding the player's transfer from Milan. This Wednesday, vice-president of football Kléber Leite held a press conference and denied that he had authorization from the Italian club to negotiate with the striker, but reaffirmed that this will be the club's main objective in 2008. "Ronaldo is an Milan player, he has a contract with Milan, and Leonardo did not authorize us to pursue a process with Milan," the director began, denying his own statements that he had "free rein" to sign Ronaldo. Even so, Kléber Leite confirmed that Flamengo will do everything possible to ensure the player wears the red-and-black jersey in the future, which would fulfill a dream for both the team and the player.
"Indeed, we're going to put together a team, a task force, because we need the brains here to try this. We have some homework to do, and things are going well. Always with all due respect to Milan, but based on the legislation, which allows a club to contact a player with six months remaining," commented the director, noting that Ronaldo's contract with Milan ends in the middle of next year.
To implement the plan to repatriate Ronaldo, Kléber Leite is banking on a good relationship with Milan and its executives. The Italian club's vice-president, Adriano Galiani, will be in Rio de Janeiro to celebrate New Year's Eve. "Adriano is already in Rio; he's a beloved figure in football; he's very sensitive. But first, you have to work hard; there are many stages to overcome, and we're only going through one," he reflected.
"Milan isn't a complicating factor; they're a dear brother. Milan, in the process, isn't a problem," added the club's director, who also believes in the player's willingness to complete the transfer. "Until yesterday, for Ronaldo, it was all just a mutual desire. After yesterday, it became clear that it's much more serious than he thinks," explained Kléber Leite, making it clear that he had met with the player to discuss the transfer.
Even so, the director preferred not to set a deadline. "There's no time. He won't just compete in the Libertadores; it's a lifelong project. It's the realization of a lifelong dream. Our initial project with Ronaldo is until 2010, and then it would involve children," he revealed. "It's not a loan, it's a lifelong project. It wouldn't end on December 31, 2010; it's more than that. There's no better ambassador Flamengo could have than Ronaldo," he added.
"It's not easy, but at the same time it's encouraging. There are natural obstacles that we have to overcome," he emphasized. "Even so, all of this will be a turning point in Flamengo's 2008 season," the director concluded, maintaining hopes of bringing Ronaldo to the club.
Tardelli receives proposal from Flamengo, but prioritizes São Paulo
São Paulo (SP) - The arrival of striker Adriano makes the competition for São Paulo's attack even fiercer. Therefore, in theory, striker Diego Tardelli would have less playing time in 2008. Recently, the player received an offer from Flamengo, but he is still considering the best option for next season. "Right now, there's nothing concrete. I had a conversation with a member of Flamengo's board (vice president of football Kléber Leite). I was happy with Flamengo's interest, but I have a contract with São Paulo and intend to fulfill it. I hope to stay here at São Paulo this year," the athlete explained in an interview with Rádio Record.
According to Tardelli, Flamengo hasn't disclosed the figures it intends to pay for his salary in Rio de Janeiro. Before considering a transfer, the player wants to hear the position of São Paulo's directors and coaching staff regarding his future.
"I want to wait and see what São Paulo will do with me, whether I'll be useful to Muricy. My first option is to play in the Libertadores for São Paulo," said Diego Tardelli.
In addition to Adriano, coach Muricy Ramalho can use Aloísio, Borges, Dagoberto, and Leandro in São Paulo's attack. After stints in Spain and the Netherlands, Diego Tardelli returned to Morumbi in the middle of last year and had few opportunities during the campaign to win the fifth national championship.
Kléber Leite is cautious, but maintains his dream of having Ronaldo
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After announcing its intention to sign striker Ronaldo for the 2008 season, Flamengo backtracked and adopted a cautious stance regarding the player's transfer from Milan. This Wednesday, vice-president of football Kléber Leite held a press conference and denied that he had authorization from the Italian club to negotiate with the striker, but reaffirmed that this will be the club's main objective in 2008. "Ronaldo is an Milan player, he has a contract with Milan, and Leonardo did not authorize us to pursue a process with Milan," the director began, denying his own statements that he had "free rein" to sign Ronaldo. Even so, Kléber Leite confirmed that Flamengo will do everything possible to ensure the player wears the red-and-black jersey in the future, which would fulfill a dream for both the team and the player.
"Indeed, we're going to put together a team, a task force, because we need the brains here to try this. We have some homework to do, and things are going well. Always with all due respect to Milan, but based on the legislation, which allows a club to contact a player with six months remaining," commented the director, noting that Ronaldo's contract with Milan ends in the middle of next year.
To implement the plan to repatriate Ronaldo, Kléber Leite is banking on a good relationship with Milan and its executives. The Italian club's vice-president, Adriano Galiani, will be in Rio de Janeiro to celebrate New Year's Eve. "Adriano is already in Rio; he's a beloved figure in football; he's very sensitive. But first, you have to work hard; there are many stages to overcome, and we're only going through one," he reflected.
"Milan isn't a complicating factor; they're a dear brother. Milan, in the process, isn't a problem," added the club's director, who also believes in the player's willingness to complete the transfer. "Until yesterday, for Ronaldo, it was all just a mutual desire. After yesterday, it became clear that it's much more serious than he thinks," explained Kléber Leite, making it clear that he had met with the player to discuss the transfer.
Even so, the director preferred not to set a deadline. "There's no time. He won't just compete in the Libertadores; it's a lifelong project. It's the realization of a lifelong dream. Our initial project with Ronaldo is until 2010, and then it would involve children," he revealed. "It's not a loan, it's a lifelong project. It wouldn't end on December 31, 2010; it's more than that. There's no better ambassador Flamengo could have than Ronaldo," he added.
"It's not easy, but at the same time it's encouraging. There are natural obstacles that we have to overcome," he emphasized. "Even so, all of this will be a turning point in Flamengo's 2008 season," the director concluded, maintaining hopes of bringing Ronaldo to the club.
PeléNet
Flamengo's vice president details "Project Ronaldo" and talks about meeting with Milan
Raphael Raposo\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, held a press conference on Wednesday afternoon at the Gávea headquarters to clarify the issues surrounding the Rio de Janeiro club's interest in forward Ronaldo, from Milan-ITA. The director revealed that he will have a meeting in the coming days with Adriano Galliani, the Italian club's key figure, who will be spending New Year's Eve in Rio de Janeiro. The Flamengo fan also detailed aspects of the Phenomenon's contract and stated that the entire club is involved in the "Project."
Striker Ronaldo has played only a few times for Milan this season.
"We want Ronaldo permanently, with a contract signed until December 31, 2010. In addition to bringing him back to the national team, we want him to participate in a social project for children around the world, along the lines of the campaigns he runs for UNICEF. We haven't spoken to Milan's directors yet. Galliani is in Rio and we'll talk later this week," Kleber explained, hinting that the signing may not be made now for the Copa Libertadores, but in the future, so that the five-time world champion can finish his career at Gávea.
Kleber emphasized that a task force has been created at Flamengo to handle the negotiations. Its members include president Marcio Braga, the entire football department, vice president of finance José Carlos Dias, businessman Plínio Serpa Pinto, vice president of football under Kleber, and Ricardo Hinrichsen, vice president of marketing.
The director commented that the Rio de Janeiro club will not enter into a collision course with the Italians.
"Milan is a brother club and we will never disrespect them. They take great care of their key players, but what matters is the player's desire, his will is what prevails," he said, confident that Ronaldo's interest is in playing for his beloved club.
"Ronaldo and I will spend New Year's Eve in Angra dos Reis (in the southern Fluminense region of Rio de Janeiro state) and of course we will discuss the negotiations," he continued, giving details of a meeting he had with Fabiano Farah, the striker's agent, on Tuesday night. "I left the conversation with a very good impression and certain that things have evolved a lot since yesterday," he assured.
For Kleber, the other club interested in having Ronaldo, Fenerbahce-TUR, the team coached by the red-and-black idol Zico, cannot compete with Flamengo.
"The chance of Fenerbahce getting in Flamengo's way in this story is zero," he assured.
Ronaldo's contract with Milan runs until June 2008. He was signed in January and made just 14 appearances and scored seven goals, all in the Italian Championship. His performance was hampered by repeated muscle injuries. Despite this, the Italian club denied on its official website this afternoon that it was negotiating with Flamengo and that it had given the Rio de Janeiro club permission to negotiate with the star.
This Wednesday, Flamengo and Brazil's team doctor, José Luís Runco, stated that the striker is fully fit to continue playing and that his current calf injury will be healed in two or three weeks. Coach Joel Santana also addressed the matter and said he is confident of a deal being reached, as Kleber Leite is not one to leave negotiations of this magnitude frustrated.
Apart from Ronaldo, Tardelli should be Flamengo's last reinforcement
Raphael Raposo\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, confirmed this Wednesday afternoon, in a press conference at the Gávea headquarters, that the club should indeed sign striker Diego Tardelli, who is linked to São Paulo until December 31, 2008.
"I can't deny that he's a good name. The situation is ongoing and he's very close to wearing the Flamengo shirt. He would be the last signing for 2008, with the exception of Ronaldo," said the director, who gave more details about the deal.
"He was going to come to Flamengo permanently. The deal wasn't finalized because his agent is out of Brazil," he added.
Diego Tardelli Martins, 22 years old (May 10, 05), began his career at Partner-PR. The striker also played for Santos, União Barbarense-SP, Bétis-ESP, and PSV Eindhoven-HOL. With São Paulo, the player won the state championship and the Copa Libertadores da América, both in 1985, as well as the Brazilian Championship this year.
Botafogo and Fla debut at home in BR-08. Flu and Vasco, away
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) released this Wednesday the tables for Series A and B of the 2008 Brazilian Championship, in a simplified format, without dates, times and locations of the matches.
Of the Rio clubs, Botafogo and Flamengo will debut at home, while Fluminense and Vasco will play away. The opening round will be held on May 10th and 11th.
Botafogo will host Sport, and Flamengo will face Santos. Fluminense will travel to Belo Horizonte, where they will face Atlético-MG. Vasco, meanwhile, will be in Porto Alegre to face Internacional.
The first Rio derby will be played in the third round, between Botafogo and Vasco, on May 25th. The Fla-Flu match of the first round will be played next, in the fourth round, on the 31st of the same month.
The Brazilian Championship ends on Sunday, December 7th. Botafogo will play in São Paulo against Palmeiras, and Flamengo will play in Curitiba against Atlético-PR. Fluminense will host Ipatinga, and Vasco will host Vitória.
BalloonSport
Fla says he supports Ronaldo
The club would have several alternatives to pay the Milan player's high salary
Eduardo Peixoto and Gustavo Rotstein
Kléber Leite will try to sign Ronaldo
Money won't be Flamengo's main problem in signing Ronaldo. At least that's what the members of the Flamengo task force think. Behind the scenes, everyone is aware that the Phenomenon not only "pays for himself" but will also generate profits.
Of course, not all of the approximately R$375 the striker would receive monthly would come from the club's coffers. But the club's executives know that dozens of investors would be willing to take on the venture.
"Money isn't a problem. I'll just say one thing: it just depends on his will," says a member of the board.
At his family's Christmas party, Ronaldo expressed a strong desire to sign with Flamengo. His relatives encouraged him to do so. Everyone believes this is the ideal time for him to return to Brazil.
Rubro-Negro is offering a contract until 2010. One way to generate money for the striker would be to guarantee him all royalties from the sale of shirts with the number 9.
Kléber: 'We will die for Ronaldo'
Vice president reveals that Fla is working on a task force to sign a striker for three years
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléber Leite at Flamengo's press conference
Flamengo's board revealed at a press conference late Wednesday afternoon in Gávea that there is a task force working to sign Ronaldo on a long-term basis. The striker's contract with Milan runs until July 2008. But vice-president Kléber Leite said he will meet with the Italian club's vice-president, Adriano Galliani, this Thursday to formalize the club's interest.
The idea is that Ronaldo will be released to sign a three-year contract with Flamengo, so that he can play in the 2010 World Cup as a club player.
"Adriano Galliani (vice president of the Italian club Rubro-Negro) is in Rio and will spend New Year's Eve here. We'll have plenty of opportunities to talk to him. The project requires a lot of inspiration and a lot of perspiration. I can't guarantee we'll succeed. But my teammates and I will die for this project," says Kléber.
For now, Milan does not allow negotiations
Ronaldo wants to fulfill his dream of playing for Flamengo. And the club is offering a "life project" that could last until 2010 and then continue in the form of a social campaign. The player's contract with Milan remains a major obstacle. In fact, Milan's official website even released a very brief official statement on Wednesday denying that the club has authorized Flamengo to negotiate with Ronaldo. But there is hope that the player's wish will be granted.
"I hope his will prevails in the end. If not now, it will be in July. But I sense a deep respect for him at Milan. I think they want to transfer the final decision to Ronaldo. It's no secret that his dream is to play for Flamengo. There are a number of circumstances that are very favorable to a happy ending," warns the club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite.
To make the project viable, Flamengo's task force will be composed of the vice president of marketing, Ricardo Heinrichsen, the collaborator, Plínio Serpa Pinto, the vice president of finance, José Carlos Dias, and the president, Márcio Braga.
From what we've seen so far, Flamengo's executives will have their work cut out for them. From the striker's high salary to his release from the Italian club, everything seems to be working against Flamengo's dreams, and even Ronaldo's, who has declared himself a Flamengo fan several times and has never hidden his desire to play for his beloved club someday (watch the video below).
Signed in January, Fênomeno has made just 14 appearances for the Italian club and scored seven goals, all in the Serie A. He is currently recovering from a left calf injury. He is expected to return to training and matches within a month.
Milan denies negotiations with Ronaldo
Italian club releases official statement saying it did not authorize striker to sign with Flamengo
Milan's Ronaldo in Flamengo's sights
Milan released an official statement on Wednesday afternoon denying that there are any negotiations for Ronaldo to be transferred to Flamengo. The four-line statement also states that the club has not authorized the striker to negotiate with the Rubro-Negro.
The information is contrary to that released on Tuesday by Fla's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, who stated that he had been authorized by the Italian club to negotiate with the Phenomenon.
Ronaldo becomes a topic of conversation among Flamengo fans
In the conversation circles, players want to know if the Phenomenon is close to a deal
Eduardo Peixoto and Gustavo Rotstein
Players take a photo during the game
"Is Ronaldo really coming or is this a joke?" This is how Cristian welcomed the GLOBOESPORTE.COM reporters at the charity match organized by Ibson, this Wednesday, in Niterói.
But he wasn't the only one curious. Among the football fans, the topic of "Flamengo Phenomenon" was a hot topic.
Everyone wanted to know the latest on the subject. And, of course, there was widespread approval.
"Man, honestly, I'd give my life to see Ronaldo at Flamengo. I'm a huge fan of his. I really am. I've been following his career since Cruzeiro," says midfielder Cristian.
Goalkeeper Marcelo Lomba also didn't have much faith in the global legend's deal with the Red-Blacks. But he didn't hold back:
- It would be great. The guy is awesome.
Some directors present at the event consider that Ronaldo's chances of success are "very good".
Fla will have to buy Tardelli outright
São Paulo director warns that he does not intend to negotiate the striker in any other way
Joanna of Assisi
Diego Tardelli at São Paulo training
São Paulo's vice president of football, Carlos Augusto de Barros e Silva, known as Leco, confirmed that the club has been approached by Flamengo, which intends to sign striker Diego Tardelli in 2008. But the negotiations are very direct. The player will only be released if the red-and-black club is willing to buy him. And for cash.
"Flamengo wants it. If they pay, everything's fine. But we want payment upfront. I won't say anything else about it," the director says categorically.
Flamengo expects to complete the signing of the striker by Friday. On Wednesday, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, confirmed that negotiations with the player are underway.
'All-Star Game': Promise of a Full House
The match organized by Zico will be at Maraca, this Thursday, and had 42 thousand tickets sold
Zico lifts the trophy improvised by the crowd during a press conference at CFZ
Zico will reminisce about the good times this Thursday, with a packed Maracanã stadium, as 42 tickets for the "All-Star Game" have been sold so far, according to the event organizers. On game day, tickets will be available at ticket booths 5 and 8 of the stadium. Grandstand tickets cost R$10, and blue seat tickets are R$6. All proceeds will go to previously selected charities.
At a press conference this Wednesday, Galinho revealed that he tried to bring Frenchman Michel Platini and Italian Roberto Baggio to the match, but personal commitments prevented the stars from attending. However, many good players, such as Seedorf, Nakata, Adriano, and Emerson, will be on the Amigos do Zico team, which will face Flamengo '87 starting at 20:30 p.m. GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be covering the match in real time, and SporTV will broadcast it live.
For Zico, there's no controversy over the '87 title; it belongs to Flamengo, period. Some Flamengo fans even brought a paper "dot cup" for their idol at CFZ. But the original could go to São Paulo, as it is considered the first five-time Brazilian champion by the CBF, which considers Sport as the '87 champion. Check out excerpts from the star's press conference:
'All-Star Game'
"It's an event that gains importance every year due to the number of people who participate and attend the games; also due to the international names we're bringing. This year I tried Platini, but he has commitments as president of UEFA. He told me that if he hadn't won the election, he would come to the game. He won, and we lost. We also tried Baggio, who also had commitments. Even so, we'll have important presences, such as Deco, Adriano, Seedorf, Emerson, and others."
87 Team Reunion
"The match will serve to reaffirm Flamengo's victory. As a player on that team, I won't allow this title to be taken away from me. I will never accept that, because I suffered, focused, traveled, and underwent surgery the day after the final. Twenty years later, we have the opportunity to come together to honor a remarkable achievement. It was a great team. So much so that Aldair, who started the World Cup in '94, was on the bench. Only Aílton didn't play for the national team."
Duo with Obina
"I'm not going to consecrate Obina in the 'All-Star Game', because he's already consecrated by the fans. Even though he's this old, I'm going to try to put him in front of goal. The fans dream of that, and they'll certainly be very happy."
Ronaldo always invited
"Last year he was invited, but he couldn't go. This time we didn't get in touch because he's injured. But if he shows up on time and wants to participate, he'll play. He doesn't need an invitation."
Fenerbahçe's interest
"I'm a coach and I don't get involved in negotiations. But if Ronaldo is 100%, it makes a difference and it's a game-changer. If he's in shape, he'd be a great addition to Fenerbahçe, Flamengo, or any other club."
Luxa confirmed for 'All-Star Game'
Raí and Denílson are other names that will be at the event promoted by Zico at Maracanã
Gustavo Rotstein
Luxemburgo presents himself at Palmeiras
The "Game of Stars" already has several international stars confirmed. But it has gained a major reinforcement on the bench. Coach Vanderlei Luxemburgo, who recently left Santos for Palmeiras, confirmed that he will be present at the event hosted by Zico this Thursday at Maracanã.
Luxemburgo will lead the "Friends of Zico" team, which will face Flamengo, the 1987 Brazilian champions. The Rubro-Negro will be coached by Carlinhos, who led the team that won its fourth championship 20 years ago.
Also on Wednesday, two more names were confirmed. Former São Paulo legend Raí and Denílson, a World Cup winner with the Brazilian national team in 2002, join other stars such as Adriano, Deco, Seedorf, and Nakata.
Ibson returns to his origins
Alongside his friend Diego, the red-and-black midfielder gathers friends in a charity game in Niterói
Eduardo Peixoto and Gustavo Rotstein
Ibson poses for a photo with his friends
During the year, Ibson is accustomed to playing in large stadiums in front of huge crowds. But during the holidays, the stage is the clay field, and the opponents are old friends. Alongside goalkeeper Diego, the Flamengo midfielder hosted a charity match in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, this Wednesday.
In the first match, Ibson and Diego's childhood friends faced off in a game that was anything but friendly, due to several rough exchanges, but always good-natured. The red-and-black team lost 3-1, with the midfielder missing a penalty kick. In the second match, former Flamengo and Vasco players relived the good old days. Andrade and Júlio César Uri Geller, for the red-and-black side, and Roberto Dinamite, for the Cruzmaltino side, were the stars.
"It's in these moments that I return to my roots. It's great to play with great friends, many of them from childhood, like Diego," says Ibson.
The main match was between current athletes. The match brought together goalkeeper Julio Cesar (Inter Milan), the red-and-blacks Cristian and Paulo Sérgio, Vinícius Pacheco (Paraná), André Lima (Hertha Berlin), Adriano Felício (Botafogo), Rodrigo Souto (Santos), Luiz Alberto (Fluminense), Henrique (Bordeaux), as well as pagode singers. The Viradouro samba school's percussion section livened up the party.
The July 5th Combination was packed to the brim with people watching the festivities. The entrance fee was 2kg of non-perishable food, and nearly 30 tons were collected. The donations will be sent to approximately 30 charities.
"It's priceless to witness the success of this event, as it's only the second edition. I hope it grows even more from now on. Many friends came to support us, and the audience did their part. Diego and I are very happy."
Julio Cesar honors his friend Ibson
Goalkeeper for Inter Milan and the Brazilian national team is the attraction at a charity event in Niterói
Eduardo Peixoto and Gustavo Rotstein
Goalkeeper Julio Cesar in Ibson's game
In the second year of their charity match, held in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Ibson and Diego had a distinguished presence. Julio Cesar, goalkeeper for Inter Milan and the Brazilian national team, was at the event to honor his friends from Flamengo.
Julio Cesar arrived at Combinado 5 de Julho in the late afternoon and immediately attracted the attention of the packed crowd. The goalkeeper sat in a reserved spot, but he didn't escape the crowd's attention, taking plenty of photos. Ibson was proud of his friend's presence.
"We grew up together at Flamengo, and I'm very happy to see him here attending this celebration. It shows that Diego and I are both respected," joked the Flamengo midfielder.
But Julio Cesar was just one of the footballers present at the event. Henrique, André Lima, Rodrigo Souto, Luiz Alberto, Cristian, and Adriano Felício also attended the party.
São Paulo expects to receive the trophy in January
Management expects the controversial 'Taça das Bolinhas' from the CBF in the first few weeks
Cardboard Cup of Balls, made by Flamengo fans
The controversy surrounding the "Touque das Bolinhas" (Ball Cup) is set to resurface early next year. São Paulo's board confirmed on Wednesday that it plans to receive the trophy from the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation in the first weeks of January.
"According to Ricardo Teixeira and Virgil Elísio, the CBF's technical director, it's a matter of setting a date for an event. I believe this will be done in the first half of next month," João Paulo de Jesus Lopes, special advisor to the Tricolor president, told Rádio Jovem Pan.
São Paulo expected to receive it on December 3rd during the awards ceremony for the best players of the last Brazilian Championship, but that didn't happen. The CBF, however, maintains that the São Paulo club is the true owner of the trophy.
The "Taça das Bolinhas" (Little Ball Cup) was created in 1970 to honor the first three-time or five-time consecutive champions. Flamengo claims to be entitled to it, but the CBF does not recognize the 1987 national title, known as the Copa União. The CBF considers the title to be won by Sport Recife – the Red-Black team officially won the Brasileirão in 80, 82, 83, and 92.
São Paulo, which promises not to pass the trophy on to the Rio de Janeiro club, won the competition in 77, 86, 91, 2006 and 2007.
Banking investor Diego Tardelli in Fla
Rio de Janeiro board is just waiting for an "ok" to conclude negotiations with São Paulo striker
Eduardo Peixoto
Diego Tardelli, from São Paulo, fights for the ball in the game against Fluminense
Flamengo wants to sign striker Diego Tardelli for five years. But to do so, they'll need cash. São Paulo has already announced that it has no intention of loaning the player, whose contract expires at the end of 2008.
Therefore, the club's board is in contact with an investor to purchase the athlete's economic rights. For now, the parties have not yet reached a final agreement, but it is expected to be announced before the end of the year.
Regarding the player's price, the board considers it "neither high nor low." Despite the player's reputation for undiscipline, they are extremely confident that the signing will be successful.
"He's newly married and very excited about our plan. Just like Ronaldo, he'll have a fresh start in life here," says Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite.
For experts, Ronaldo is a sure bet
Sports marketing consultant says the signing of the star is viable and positive\ Richard Souza\
Ronaldo may wear black and red in 2008, but at Flamengo
Bringing back an idol can be a good way to fill the coffers. This assertion is based on a conversation with sports marketing consultant João Henrique Areias. GLOBOESPORTE.COM reached out to an expert on the subject to evaluate Ronaldo Fenômeno's possible return to Brazil to play in the 2008 Copa Libertadores for Flamengo. If the deal goes through, Areias believes the club will reap significant profits.
"The initiative is very good. I don't doubt that Kléber (Kléber Leite, the club's vice president of football) will succeed, as he managed to bring Romário back in 1995. In football, nothing is 100% certain, but I'd say the chance of success is almost 99%. The key is establishing the necessary actions to finalize the deal. Bringing an idol back to the country is highly positive," he says.
The consultant believes Flamengo has plenty of potential to sign the Milan player and points to ways for his return to be a success off the field as well. João Henrique Areias is particularly banking on the passion of Brazil's largest fan base.
"The first step is to analyze all possible partnerships with the club's current sponsors, Nike and Petrobras, and with the fans, who are Flamengo's main partners. In the case of Petrobras, it would provide fantastic media coverage. Ronaldo could be the multinational's poster boy and take the brand worldwide. In the case of Nike, it's even easier, as his image is already being exploited by the company," he comments.
Corinthians kit becomes a model
Areias has no doubt that selling Ronaldo's jersey to Flamengo would be a success. The consultant's calculation is simple.
"The target market is working with to reach Flamengo's jersey sales estimates of 30 million fans, according to research. A 4% return on this total (1,2 million jerseys) is considered wonderful, very good. The fans have already shown they love the team and want to help. This potential needs to be harnessed," he says.
The expert cites another popular team to provide another example of a successful marketing campaign.
Corinthians launched a kit ("I'll never abandon you because I love you") and it's been a huge success. In nine days, 9 units were sold. Fans buy a jersey, a wristband, and a sticker. Each one costs R$50. But it can't be the team's game jersey, which is very expensive. It has to be something simple, and it's possible to make a kit like this without any problems and achieve results," he recommends.
João Henrique Areias believes that Ronaldo's return has everything to be a success
Zico is an example
Ronaldo's repeated injuries shouldn't hinder the success of Flamengo's marketing efforts with the player. For the consultant, the endorsement of José Luiz Runco, the player's, the club's, and the Brazilian national team's doctor, helps fans put their suspicions aside.
"Of course he'll be held accountable. But it's up to him, and he's already said he's willing to recover. Ronaldo is 31, and he's still very young," he says.
João Henrique Areias worked at Flamengo on three occasions: in 87, 92 (as vice president of marketing), and in 2004 (professional director). He is the author of the book "A Beautiful Move - 20 Years of Sports Marketing." He cites an example of a bold move that paid off in the 80s.
"In '87, I was at Flamengo and participated in the meeting where Zico's contract renewal was discussed. Many people didn't believe he would return to playing at a high level due to his repeated injuries. Half were against it, and I defended the idea that, regardless of whether he played, we would have to find resources to keep the team's idol. If he didn't play, he would be Flamengo's public relations officer, a sort of ambassador for the club. We renewed his contract, and he helped us win the '87 Brazilian Championship," he recalls.
In 1995, a bold but poorly used action
Four-time world champion, Romário joins Flamengo in 1995
When it brought Romário to Gávea, Flamengo was investing in the best player in the world, elected in 1994. In the consultant's view, the club made a mistake in assessing its strategies.
"At the time, companies helped bring Romário in. There was a lot of excitement, a strategic error by the team in charge of the football team, and the team that also had Sávio and Edmundo didn't work out. Romário gave Flamengo a lot of media attention, due to his natural appeal, but the club didn't know how to leverage his presence to launch products and generate revenue," he comments.
Profit also for Ronaldo
To play at Gávea, the Phenomenon would accept a 50% salary reduction. According to the Italian newspaper "La Gazzetta dello Sport," he currently earns around R$750 and would earn R$375. Areias believes the player and the club can reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
- Flamengo will be able to bring Ronald