The Globe
Fla presents its newest reinforcement: Kléberson
Suspended by FIFA, the five-time champion will only be able to play in the squad from February 2008 onwards.
Photo caption: KLÉBERSON REPEATS the usual gesture of kissing the red-black shield
Complete with a band and a personalized number 11 jersey, Kléberson received a superstar's welcome last night in Gávea. The midfielder who burst onto the world stage after winning the club's fifth World Cup in 2002 under Felipão was introduced as Flamengo's newest signing for 2008.
As registrations for the Brazilian Championship have ended and Kléberson was punished with a four-month suspension by FIFA, for breaking his contract with Besiktas, from Turkey, he will only be able to be selected from February of next year.
"He's excellent when he's in shape, he flies on the field. In the 2002 World Cup, he established himself in Scolari's squad with his dynamism and directness. An excellent addition. It's a shame he can't play soon. It's clear that a player of his caliber comes to be a starter," says coach Joel Santana, who doesn't even know if he'll remain with Flamengo in 2008.
Kléberson's contract begins on October 1st and theoretically ends in December 2008, with the possibility of an extension for another four years, if both parties agree and no unforeseen legal issues arise. FIFA will review the appeal filed by the player's lawyers, likely between May and June. Kléberson is requesting a reduction in his sentence and the three million euro compensation the Turkish club is demanding as compensation for his departure.
At 28 years old, the supporter arrived in Gávea with the same old speech as all reinforcements:
- At 14, I came from the interior of Paraná and tried out for Flamengo. But I didn't do very well. Every boy dreams of playing here, and now I want to reclaim that lost dream.
While Kléberson was being welcomed with a party, another star, recently welcomed with the same status, was facing moments of anguish and doubt. Roger left the field in tears, complaining of pain in the back of his left thigh. He left Gávea, accompanied by doctor José Luiz Runco, straight for an MRI. The scan revealed no injuries.
Marcelinho confirmed at Fla
Today, winger Marcelinho Machado, who played last season for Zalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania, will be presented at Flamengo's headquarters in Gávea, ahead of the State Basketball Championship. The red-and-black team will debut in the competition on Saturday at 18 pm in Volta Redonda, against the home team. The winger, whose contract runs until 2009, is only expected to play in the derby against Fluminense on the 7th, at a location yet to be determined by the Rio de Janeiro Basketball Federation.
"I've been out of action for 15 days and out of rhythm. I need a few days to get back in shape and be able to help the team. I wanted to return to Brazil, and Flamengo made me an international-level offer. I'm sure it will be special because you don't have a fan base like the red-and-blacks on your side at every team," he stated.
Sports Journal
Kléberson: a five-time champion reinforcement
Surprise signing, Kleberson arrives at Gávea in the arms of the red-black fans
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Idol treatment: Kleberson is lifted by fans upon arriving at Gávea headquarters
The year 2008 is already knocking on Flamengo's door. The promise made by vice president of football Kleber Leite in the September 25 edition of JORNAL DOS SPORTS has begun to be fulfilled. Flamengo announced in the early hours of yesterday the signing of midfielder Kleberson, a five-time World Cup winner with the Brazilian national team in 2002. The player was presented yesterday at the Rogério Steinberg Auditorium in Gávea and received a celebratory welcome from the fans.
The negotiations, according to Kleber Leite, had already been dragging on for three months. Because Kleberson unilaterally resigned from Besiktas, his last club in Turkey, the case reached FIFA, which imposed a four-month ban on the player, as soon as he signed a contract with another club. For this reason, Flamengo's board decided to move up the signing, and in February, Kleberson will be able to play normally for the club. Registration for the current season had already closed.
"Next year, Flamengo will probably be the only Brazilian club to have a world champion on its roster. It was a three-month struggle, which had a happy outcome thanks to the help of the athlete's attorney, lawyer Gislaine Nunes, and Michel Assef Filho. Kleberson signed an initial contract until December 2008, but this can be terminated at any time to create a new agreement, lasting up to five years, which is our intention," explained the strongman of Flamengo's football.
Comeback\ Very happy with the deal, Kleberson had already been without an official match for four months. Now, with these four months added together, the period of inactivity will be extended. This, however, is not a concern for the player.\
"I wanted to be available for Joel right now, but I have to control my anxiety and take advantage of this time to get my physical condition in shape. I need to be prepared to perform when I'm selected. I was here when I was 14 to audition, but unfortunately I didn't pass. Now, I intend to make up for lost time," said the new Flamengo signing.
Joel praises Kleberson as the pioneer in Flamengo's project for next year. And despite having said on Tuesday that nothing had been decided yet regarding his permanence in 2008, coach Joel Santana let slip that he should stay.
"He's coming to be my team's starter next year," said the coach.
Roger feels uncomfortable and leaves training
Supporter Roger's return to the Flamengo squad for Saturday's match against Atlético-MG at Maracanã Stadium has been jeopardized. During yesterday's training session at Gávea Stadium, the player felt pain in his left thigh again and was immediately taken to a clinic in Rio's North Zone for an MRI, which revealed no injury.
During training, it was suspected that the player was not feeling well, as during Joel Santana's tactical training, he began walking strangely and, looking very downcast, placed his hand on his left thigh. After talking for a few minutes with vice-president Kleber Leite, coach Joel Santana, and the club's doctors, the player returned to the locker room without limping.
Flamengo doctor Walter Martins said that the exam results did not show any type of injury and that if the player does not feel anything by today, he will be able to face Atlético-MG on Saturday.
"Roger had the exam and the results were normal. He didn't show any injuries. He complained of some discomfort and we'll wait until tomorrow to see how the player recovers. If he doesn't feel anything, he'll train tomorrow and be able to play on Saturday," said the doctor.
Roger has been training separately from the group for two weeks to regain his physical fitness.
Fla does not admit to sharing Maraca
One day after Fluminense president Roberto Horcades stated he would fight for the Maracanã stadium bid against "The Thing," referring to Flamengo, the club's executives responded swiftly. Vice president of football Kleber Leite maintained the rivalry and provoked:
"The Maracanã bid isn't a two-person bid. It only fits one. There's no way to reconcile the interests of both clubs, not to mention the sponsorship issue. We're going to fight to win this battle," said the director.
President Marcio Braga sought to adopt a somewhat more peaceful tone, while still taking a dig at the Tricolor leaders.
"It must be a rumination on their part. Flamengo hasn't yet drawn up a project because we don't know the size of this 'hole.' Horcades can say whatever he wants, especially since he's never made any proposal for us to jointly manage the Maracanã," he stated.
The idea of a partnership arose in early September when Flamengo and Fluminense reached an agreement with Suderj (Rio de Janeiro State Sports Federation) to play all their home games in this Brazilian Championship at Maracanã. This would allow both clubs to pay less for stadium use. The close relationship between Flamengo and Fluminense ultimately reinforced the idea of a future partnership where both teams would jointly manage Maracanã.
As Vasco has São Januário and Botafogo won the concession of Engenhão for 20 years, Flamengo and Fluminense are competing for the right to manage the most famous stadium in the world, in a battle that promises to have the same emotions as a classic.
STJD does not relieve Obina, but absolves Fla for rain of glasses
Flamengo received good news and bad news yesterday from the Superior Court of Sports Justice. The bad news was that the suspension requested by the club to allow fan favorite Obina to play pending trial by the full court was denied by the president of the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), Rubens Approbato Machado. Obina was charged with violating Article 253 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (committing physical assault) after elbowing Internacional defender Indio and was punished with a 120-day suspension.
The good news, however, was the club's acquittal, by a majority vote, of the charge of violating Article 213 (failure to take measures capable of preventing and suppressing disorder in its sports arena), combined with Article 157, Section I (consummated, when all the elements of its definition are met), both of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice. The Superior Court of Justice (STJD) prosecutor's office filed a complaint against the club after watching a video of the Flamengo-Vasco derby, in which Vasco fans threw cups onto the Maracanã pitch.
Marcelinho, captain of the national team, is from Flamengo
Rafael Oliveira
The winger signed his contract with Rubro-Negro yesterday
It's official: Marcelinho Machado is Flamengo's newest signing. Yesterday, the club and the Brazilian national team captain finally reached an agreement, and Flamengo announced his signing.
The player will defend the club until the end of 2009 and will occupy the position of the club's new basketball idol.
"I wanted to return to Brazil, and Flamengo gave me the opportunity. I'm sure it will be special, because it's not at every team that you have a fan base like the red-and-blacks behind you. The club has put together an excellent team, I know most of them from having played with them, and I'm sure we'll have a great season," said the winger.
The three-time Pan-American champion is Flamengo's main reinforcement for the 2007/08 season, when the team will be seeking its third state championship and its first National Basketball title.
"Having Marcelinho on the team is a dream come true. He's the face of Flamengo. The club thrives on titles, and the arrival of a national team player will only help us in our quest for the much-desired National Championship," said Olympic Sports Director Patrícia Amorim.
The winger turned down offers from European clubs to fulfill his dream of returning to Brazil. At Fla, he will work alongside his brothers Duda, a point guard, and Ricardo, the team's physiotherapist. But his debut for the club won't be on Saturday, in the match against Volta Redonda. Having been out of training for almost a month, he's only expected to play starting with the derby against Fluminense on the 7th.
O Dia
Flamengo: A dream come true 14 years later
In 1993, Kléberson, aged 14, auditioned at Gávea, but failed and dropped out.
Marluci Martins
Rio - At 14, Kléberson was just another boy whose dream evaporated. He left Uraí, Paraná, to try his luck at Flamengo, but, frightened by Rio de Janeiro's overwhelming size, he failed his tryouts. Today, 14 years later, Rio de Janeiro remains beautiful, and Kléberson can finally be a part of one of its symbols: Flamengo.
Signed for the 2008 season, the player, who won the 2002 World Cup with the Brazilian national team, was presented yesterday at Gávea. Welcomed by the Charanga, to the sound of the club's anthem, Kléberson couldn't contain the smile that was 14 years too late.
"What kid doesn't want to play for Flamengo? When I was a kid, I came to try out, but I was scared by Rio and gave up. Today, I have the opportunity to come back and make up for lost time," said the midfielder.
But Kléberson still has some time to lose. Due to a breach of contract with Besiktas in Turkey, his last club, he will serve a four-month suspension. Flamengo hopes to be able to count this time starting October 1st, as they couldn't register him for the Brasileirão anyway. And they won't pay him a salary until he's able to play—only bonuses.
The idea is for Kléberson to be fit to play starting February 1st, missing only a few rounds of the State Championship. If he's to make up for lost time, he'll have to be in excellent shape by then to realize another dream.
"I regret not being available right now, and I'll keep my nerves in check. I'll have to be 100 percent when I wear the Flamengo jersey. I dream of returning to the national team, and I can't let that die," said the 28-year-old, who hasn't played in four months.
Kléberson's career began to unravel when he transferred to Manchester United. He stayed there for two years. Two years ago, he was playing Turkish football, but he decided to part ways with Besiktas, despite having another year remaining on his contract, with an optional extra if both parties were interested.
“I quit because the club didn't meet its financial obligations, in addition to other things that happened there,” he said, without going into details.
For breach of contract, Kléberson was sentenced to a four-month suspension and ordered to pay Besiktas a €3 million (approximately R$8,1 million) fine. He has appealed and is still awaiting a ruling on his appeal.
SANTOS WITHDRAWAL
Because of this impasse, the player recently had one foot in Santos's net, but was unable to close the deal. Flamengo took three months to reach a solution that would make the signing viable, and in the early hours of yesterday, the deal was sealed. All that's left is for the player's appeal to be heard next year before Flamengo can take another step toward another dream: a four-year extension of Kléberson's contract, which initially expires in December 2008.
FLAMENGO WILL HAVE TO PAY R$8,1 MILLION TO BESIKTAS
Kléberson's signing is a gamble that should cost Flamengo approximately €3 million (approximately R$8,1 million at the moment). This is the amount that Kléberson will initially have to pay Besiktas for breaking his contract with the Turkish club.
Flamengo's doubts are as follows:
1) Kléberson had requested a suspension of his four-month suspension for breaching his contract with the Istanbul club. Flamengo is now hoping that this appeal will not be granted, as they would prefer the player serve his suspension quickly, as they can no longer register him for the Brazilian Championship.
2) If, contrary to Flamengo's wishes, the suspension is granted to the player, the punishment will only come into effect in January 2009. In this case, Flamengo will give up on extending his contract, which ends in December of next year.
3) If, to the joy of the red-blacks, the suspension effect is lifted, the player will be free to enter the field in February and his contract will be extended until December 2012.
4) In mid-June, the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne will rule on the player's appeal to FIFA. If the decision that Kléberson must pay €3 million in compensation to the Turkish club is upheld, Flamengo will make the advance payment (or part of it), reaching an agreement with the player to reduce the amount over the course of his contract until 2012.
Even with so many impasses surrounding Kléberson's transfer, vice president of football Kléber Leite assured that he is making the bet because he believes in a happy outcome for the club and the player.
"Everything in life is a gamble. Even marriage, right? And I believe in Kléberson's football. It's as if I were betting that São Paulo will be the Brazilian champion. The risk of error is very small," the director stated.
Joel Santana loses his patience over the Roger issue
Rio - Want to see Joel Santana angry? Just ask him if his midfielder Roger will be on the field next Saturday against Atlético Mineiro at Maracanã. The countless questions about the player's return are making the manager lose patience in press conferences. Although he still says there's no set timeframe, Roger is still in the final stages of physical preparation.
"There's no point in putting me against the wall. I'm a coach who only puts in players who are doing well. I treat Roger the same way I do with Thiago Sales and Toró. No one here is against him; if he's doing well, he'll play," Joel emphasizes.
Roger has been out of Flamengo's starting lineup for two weeks now. However, he prefers to avoid controversy over the matter.
"Now it's up to the coaching staff to decide when it's the right time for me to come in. I'm feeling good," the supporter simply said.
Bruno gets a dressing down from the red-black coach
Rio - Coach Joel Santana gave goalkeeper Bruno a dressing down. Due to his statements regarding the match against Atlético Mineiro next Saturday at Maracanã, Flamengo's number 1 ended up being reprimanded by the coach after stating that, between Flamengo and Galo, he would opt for the Minas Gerais team's relegation. Joel Santana understands that the statement is a reference to Bruno's current professional situation, but expresses concern that his player's words will be taken as gratuitous provocation.
"The thing is, we have to stop caring about others and only think about ourselves. This is not the time to say anything," Joel Santana emphasized.
STJD denies suspensive effect to striker Obina
Rio - On Wednesday, the president of the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), Rubens Aprobratto Machado, denied the request from Flamengo's legal department to obtain a suspension of the match for striker Obina. As a result, the player remains suspended for 120 days for elbowing Internacional defender Índio in the 3-0 loss at Beira-Rio Stadium in the Brazilian Championship.
Had the court accepted the club's request, Obina would have been free to return to playing pending the second instance trial before the STJD plenary. The Flamengo striker was charged with violating Article 253 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD) – committing physical assault against a referee or his assistants, or against any other participant in the sporting event.
Sports Gazette
Against Atlético-MG, Joel should repeat the team that drew with Ju\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Coach Joel Santana is preparing Flamengo for Saturday's clash with Atlético-MG at Maracanã. The coach is expected to repeat the formation that drew with Juventude last weekend. After reconditioning himself physically, midfielder Roger is expected to start the match as a substitute, as he's lacking match fitness. The training session that will clear up Joel's doubts will take place this Thursday afternoon at Gávea. Immediately after this training session, Flamengo will begin its training camp for the match against Galo.
Midfielder Ibson will likely only return to the team for the match against São Paulo on October 7th. According to Flamengo's doctors, the player should be cleared to train with the ball this Thursday. However, since he was out for nearly three weeks, Ibson would be ready to play against the São Paulo team.
Dreaming of Maracanã, Flamengo maintains revitalization of Gávea\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo has not given up on its Gávea revitalization project, despite Rio de Janeiro Governor Sérgio Cabral revoking the club's authorization to build a modern stadium next to a shopping mall at its headquarters. On the club's official website, president Márcio Braga confirmed that he will make changes to the initial plan, also considering his participation in the fight to manage the Maracanã. "In his statement, the governor recognizes the importance of integrating commercial spaces with sports facilities and suggests that Flamengo resize the project. We will do so," the president promised in his speech, guaranteeing that the desire to manage the Maracanã will not harm the Gávea project.
"Flamengo will not relinquish its right to implement the Gávea Revitalization Program. It's important to emphasize that the possibility of managing Maracanã significantly changes the club's possibilities. Gávea is Flamengo's home; our stadium here is indispensable and not incompatible with Maracanã," concluded Márcio Braga.
Roger feels pain in his thigh and is out for Flamengo once again\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Midfielder Roger's dream of returning to Flamengo for Saturday's match against Atlético-MG at Maracanã ended. One day after returning to training with his teammates, the player suffered a muscle injury and had to leave the training session on Wednesday afternoon at Gávea. After being examined by Flamengo doctors, Roger was not diagnosed with any serious injuries, but he is expected to miss the match against Atlético-MG. "What happened to Roger is very upsetting, as he had been working hard to get back into the team and help us. He even cried when we talked after training," commented coach Joel Santana.
Without Roger, the coach should field Flamengo with the following formation on Saturday: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Ronaldo Angelim, Fábio Luciano and Juan; Rômulo, Jaílton, Cristian and Toró; Maximiliano Biancucchi and Souza.
While assembling his team for Saturday, Joel Santana took the opportunity to praise Flamengo's signing of Kleberson. "He's a great player and his resume speaks for itself, having won a World Cup with the Brazilian national team. But it seems that registrations have already closed, and he won't be able to play until next year," said the coach.
At his official presentation, Kleberson said he was fulfilling a dream and made no secret of his anticipation of playing for the Rio de Janeiro team. "I'll work hard and try to control my anxiety so I can make a strong debut for Flamengo next year. I can't wait to step into the Maracanã and feel the warmth of the Flamengo fans."
Kléberson: 'Flamengo is the biggest club in Brazil'
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - During his presentation on Wednesday, Kléberson was full of praise for Flamengo, his new club. Unable to play this year due to a suspension for breach of contract with Besiktas of Turkey, his last team, the midfielder said it was a dream to play for the Rio de Janeiro club. The 28-year-old has played for Atlético Paranaense and Manchester United, among others, and won the fifth World Cup with Brazil in 2002. Even so, he believes this will be one of the most special moments of his career. "Flamengo has a wonderful history. Every boy dreams of one day wearing this jersey, and it's no different for me," he declared. "When I was a kid, I always dreamed of playing for Flamengo in a game in front of a packed Maracanã stadium."
Excited, he didn't forget to praise the fans of his new team. "I'm very happy to be here. Flamengo is the biggest club in Brazil, with a wonderful fan base. I want to be part of this story," he said.
Anxious, Kléberson intends to use the time he'll be away from the field to prepare for next season. "I'd love to be available soon. I'll try to contain my excitement, but I know it will be difficult. I'll work hard during this preparation period to debut at 100% fitness," he explained.
One of those pleased with the signing was Flamengo coach Joel Santana. According to him, the signing demonstrates the club's planning. "Flamengo thinks big. We're getting a great player who is highly qualified. It's no wonder he's a world champion. Kléberson is coming to be a starter," he analyzed.
Fla is acquitted by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) and does not lose home field advantage
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo secured another victory in the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) on Wednesday night. After being acquitted of pitch invasion, the club once again had the unanimous decision of the judges present in the Third Committee and avoided losing home-field advantage and paying a fine for an object thrown at the Maracanã stadium on September 16. The Rio de Janeiro team was charged under Article 213 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice, which establishes measures against anyone who "fails to take measures capable of preventing and suppressing disorder in their sports arena."
The accusation refers to the cup thrown onto the field during the classic match against Vasco da Gama, held on September 16th, part of the 26th round of the Brasileirão, at Maracanã Stadium. The prosecution reported the incident and added that the object contained a suspicious yellow liquid, but was unable to secure a conviction. At the time, the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
PeléNet
With an uncertain future, Kleberson presents himself to Flamengo
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
With much fanfare, midfielder Kleberson was officially unveiled as Flamengo's newest signing late Wednesday afternoon in Gávea. The player signed a contract with the club until December 31, 2008, but due to a legal dispute, he will only be able to debut for the red-and-black team starting on February 1 of next year.
Kleberson kisses Flamengo's shirt during the presentation at the club's headquarters
HALF WAS BANISHED IN FLA 14 YEARS AGO
"It was a three-month battle. The goal is a five-year contract. It starts on October 1st, but he has to serve a four-month suspension. From February 1st, he can play. He will only miss the first match of the Rio State Championship," said Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kleber Leite.
During his time at Besiktas, his last team, Kleberson unilaterally terminated his contract with the Turkish club due to non-payment. The player subsequently took the matter to FIFA to receive his alleged entitlement.
However, world football's governing body believed Kleberson was wrong, and therefore sentenced the player to a four-month suspension and a fine of three million euros to Besiktas.
Kleberson then appealed FIFA's decision, but the appeal will only be heard between May and June 2008 at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). "If Kleberson is convicted again, he will have to pay the stipulated amount. But Flamengo will not assume this debt. In this case, what the club could do is advance an amount and agree on a contract for another four years," explained Flamengo's legal director, Michel Assef Filho.
While the appeal is pending, Kleberson is serving the suspension imposed by FIFA. The player had filed a request for a stay of absence to allow him to play until the new trial, but Flamengo's legal department will attempt to revoke it so that the midfielder can serve his sentence immediately, as he would not have been able to play in 2007 due to the deadline for registration for the Brazilian Championship.
"During these four months of suspension, he will not receive a salary, only an advance," revealed the Flamengo lawyer.
Given the current situation, Kleberson laments the inability to make his Flamengo debut immediately. After all, by the time he's fit enough to play, he'll have gone eight months without playing an official match.
"That's what I regret most. I wish I was available to start playing right away, but I have to control my anxiety and get back into shape. I haven't played a match in four months, but I've been training physically. I hope to be 100% when I'm fit to play," said Kleberson, who received the number 11 jersey with his name written on the back.
Astro reception
Unaware of the legal dispute surrounding Kleberson, Flamengo fans welcomed the new signing with a huge celebration at Gávea. In addition to the traditional Flamengo marching band, which played the club anthem, a large flag served as a "curtain" to enhance the arrival of the midfielder—a world champion with the Brazilian national team in the 2002 World Cup—who was carried in the arms of the fans.
"I'm very happy to be welcomed this way. Flamengo has a wonderful fan base. It's great to feel the warmth of this crowd. I can't wait to experience it firsthand at Maracanã," commented Kleberson, adding that he's making the dream of most Brazilian players come true.
"Every kid, when they start playing, wants to one day play for Flamengo at the Maracanã. It's a childhood dream. I saw Zico play, I met him personally, and I intend to honor the Flamengo jersey," he said.
Banned by Flamengo at 14, Kleberson wants to make up for lost time
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
After 14 years, midfielder Kleberson will have the chance to bounce back from a failed attempt to become a Flamengo player. During his official presentation as the club's newest signing this Wednesday in Gávea, the player revealed that he failed to achieve his goal of becoming a player for Brazil's most popular team when he was a teenager.
"When I was 14, I had the chance to try out here. But I was scared by Rio, didn't do well, and went back home. But now, I have the opportunity to make up for lost time," revealed the 28-year-old player.
Banned by Flamengo at the age of 14, Kleberson only emerged as a promising player in 2001, when he was an important part of the Atlético-PR team that won the club's first Brazilian title.
Thus, he was called up by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari for the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. He started as a substitute but earned a starting spot during the competition. He even provided the assist for Ronaldo's second goal in the final against Germany, which sealed a 2-0 victory and the title for Brazil.
After the World Cup, Kleberson was signed by Manchester United-ING, a club he played for between 2002 and 2004. However, the midfielder did not adapt well to England and ended up being traded to Besiktas, in Turkey, his last team.
Fla is acquitted and maintains home field advantage; Obina remains out
From the Editorial Team\ In Rio de Janeiro\
In a trial held Wednesday night at the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), Flamengo was acquitted of violating Article 213 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (CBJD). The club thus avoided the risk of losing home-field advantage in the Brazilian Championship and having to pay a fine.
Flamengo went to the STJD this Wednesday because of plastic cups thrown onto the Maracanã pitch, in the classic against Vasco, a match in which the red-black team had home field advantage.
Thus, if the club were found guilty of violating Article 213 of the CBJD (failing to take measures capable of preventing or suppressing disorder in its sports arena), it could lose home-field advantage for one to three matches and also face a fine of R$50 to R$500.
Obina fails to obtain stay of execution\ Despite this victory in court, Flamengo also suffered a defeat on the "rugged floor." Flamengo's legal department had filed a request for a stay of execution so that striker Obina could play pending a new trial by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). However, the request was denied, and he remains barred from playing.\
Obina was suspended for 120 days by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) for elbowing defender Índio in the face during a match against Internacional on August 8. However, the club's legal department filed an appeal to try to reduce the sentence and is awaiting a new trial.
Roger leaves training and should remain out of Fla
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Having not played since September 8th, midfielder Roger is expected to remain out of the Flamengo squad for a while longer. When he finally returned to training with the rest of the squad after nearly three weeks of physical recovery work, he felt a twinge in his left thigh and left training on Wednesday in Gávea.
Flamengo midfielder Roger has been away from the pitch since September 8th.
"What happened was really unpleasant. We were counting on Roger to be part of the group. He was even crying after he left training, very upset, because he wants to show his quality," lamented coach Joel Santana.
Roger was training normally with the reserves until he felt discomfort in his left thigh and left the training session. Looking dejected, the midfielder spoke with doctor José Luiz Runco and then headed to the locker room.
Later, Roger left Gávea (along with Runco) and went to a clinic for an MRI, which revealed no injuries. According to the club's doctor, the player only felt pain and may even return to training normally this Thursday.
Meanwhile, on the field, coach Joel Santana led a tactical training session in which he repeated the team that drew 2-2 with Juventude last Sunday in the Brazilian Championship.
If they maintain the formation from the last match, Flamengo will face Atlético-MG, next Saturday, at Maracanã, with Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Rômulo, Jaílton, Cristian and Toró; Maxi Biancucchi and Souza.
With stomach problems, goalkeeper Bruno was spared from Wednesday's activity, but he is not a concern for the coaching staff and should be on the field for the team's next match.
BalloonSport
Marcelinho Machado defends Fla until 2009
Captain of the Brazilian national team, winger, who was at Zalgiris Kaunas (LIT), arrives this Thursday
Marcelinho represents the Brazilian national team in the US Pre-Olympic Games. Flamengo will unveil a new signing this Thursday morning at 11 a.m. in Gávea. Anyone who thought the new Flamengo player's name was midfielder Kléberson, a five-time World Cup champion with the national soccer team, is mistaken. Mengão's newest signing is in basketball: the club will have Brazilian captain and three-time Pan American champion Marcelinho Machado until 2009.
The winger is back in Rio de Janeiro after playing for Zalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania last season. Marcelinho arrives to strengthen the team ahead of the State Championship, which begins for Flamengo this Saturday at 18 pm, when they face Volta Redonda in the Steel City. The player, who signed a contract until 2009, won't be on the court yet, but will be watching the match closely.
"I've been out of action for 15 days and out of rhythm. I need a few days to get back in shape and be able to help the team. I wanted to return to Brazil, and Flamengo gave me the opportunity. They made me an international-level offer, and I'm sure it will be special, because it's not just any team that has a fan base like the red-and-blacks behind you. Flamengo has put together an excellent team; I know most of them from having played with them, and I'm sure we'll have a great season," he says.
Marcelinho will also have two old acquaintances by his side: the brothers Duda and Ricardo.
- It's an old dream, I'll be able to play alongside my brother, Duda, and my other brother, Ricardo, is the team's physiotherapist - he added, who will face Fluminense (October 7th), a team whose director is his father, René Machado, during the Rio State Championship.
Back to Brazil\ Upon returning to Brazil and to 'his city', as Marcelinho himself emphasizes, a very important factor weighed in: the restructuring of Rio's basketball.\
"When I arrived in Rio and saw the Multipurpose Arena before the Pan American Games, I immediately thought about how wonderful it would be to see a major derby being played there, how great it would be if the teams in the shirts could build strong squads, if they could compete strongly in the championship, if they could play in front of large crowds again, and bring back the fans. And I was very happy to see Flamengo, Fluminense, and Vasco confirmed. It's a shame Botafogo didn't make the cut, but it should be motivation for them to build a team for next year," emphasizes the player, who turned down high-profile offers from clubs in Latvia, Lithuania, and Spain to sign with the Red-Blacks.
Marcelinho Machado\ Full name: Marcelo Magalhães Machado\ Position: Wing/Point Guard\ Age: 32 years old (12/04/1975)\ Height: 2,00m\ Weight: 88kg\ Career: Flamengo, Fluminense, Botafogo, Tijuca, Ginástico (MG), Corinthians (RS), Rimini Crabs (ITA), Alerta Lobos Cantabria (ESP), Rio de Janeiro, Uberlândia (MG) and Zalgiris Kaunas (LIT)\ Titles: Brazilian Champion (2005), Lithuanian Champion (2007), Baltic League runner-up (07), Lithuanian Cup champion (2006), Carioca champion (2004), Mineiro champion (2005), I JK International Tournament champion (2004) and League B champion (1997) and Carioca runner-up (2000/99/97)\ Selection: Three-time Pan American champion (2007/2003/1999), Copa América champion (2005), two-time South American champion (2003/1999), Tutto Marchand Cup champion (2007), Super Four runner-up (2002), South American runner-up (2004/2001), Copa América runner-up (2001)\
STJD vetoes appeal and Obina remains suspended
The striker will have to remain out of the red-black team for having attacked defender Índio
Flamengo's attempt to expedite Obina's return failed. This Wednesday, Rubens Approbato Machado, president of the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD), denied the club's defense's appeal and request for a stay of execution. Had the request been granted, the striker would have been able to return to play pending another trial, this time before the STJD plenary. Therefore, the striker remains suspended for the assault on Internacional defender Índio on September 8th during the Brasileirão (watch the video below).
Obina was charged with violating Article 253 of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice (committing physical assault against a referee or his assistants, or against any other participant in a sporting event). Tried on the 18th, the athlete received the minimum sentence: 120 days off the field (watch the video below). A new hearing is scheduled for October 4th.
Roger's crying moves Joel
Player is down with a twinge in his left thigh, and coach laments new problem
Eduardo Peixoto
Joel Santana is very emotional
The pain in his left thigh affected Roger's nervous system. Upon feeling the twinge in that area, the Flamengo supporter felt unwell and was brought to tears this Wednesday in Gávea. The player's sadness moved coach Joel Santana.
"What happened was unpleasant. I was counting on him for the next game, and it seems he felt a little twinge. Afterward, when we talked, he cried. It's difficult because he was preparing to come back and help our team."
Roger has been undergoing physical reconditioning for two weeks and was scheduled to be on the bench against Atlético-MG on Saturday at Maracanã. However, the new problem is expected to delay his return.
Roger feels pain in his thigh and leaves training
Flamengo supporter appeared to be unwell, but the club says his problem is muscular.
Eduardo Peixoto
Roger's return to Flamengo is unlikely to happen this Saturday against Atlético-MG. On Wednesday, the player felt pain in his left thigh during training and was immediately taken to a clinic in Rio's northern zone for an MRI scan.
Initially, it was suspected that the player had fallen ill. Flamengo's training session was proceeding normally when, suddenly, Roger began walking strangely. Coach Joel Santana realized something was wrong and called for medical attention.
Appearing groggy and with his hand on the back of his left thigh, the player spent a few minutes talking with Kléber Leite, Joel, and the doctors on the sidelines and then headed to the locker room without limping. After showering, the Rubro-Negro reported that he felt pain in his thigh and will undergo an MRI scan.
Having been out of the team for two weeks to improve his fitness, Roger is going through a difficult time. He spoke out last Tuesday.
- I ended up crying at home because I wasn't playing - he declares.
Kléberson arrives carried in the arms
Rubro-Negro throws a big party at the presentation of the five-time world champion midfielder
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléberson is carried by fans upon Flamengo's arrival
At the top of the stairs, a red-and-black flag awaited Kléberson. However, he didn't even have to descend the steps. A group of Flamengo fans carried him to the Rogério Steinberg Auditorium in Gávea. The soundtrack was the club anthem, performed by the traditional "Charanga Rubro-Negra."
Smiling, the player quickly put on a red and black cap and was welcomed by the vice president of football, Kléber Leite.
"It's a historic moment for Flamengo. He'll be the only starter from the five-time World Cup winners who will play in Brazil," the director declares, forgetting that goalkeeper Marcos still plays for Palmeiras, currently as a reserve.
Boy's dream
The warm welcome from the fans left the Flamengo newcomer thrilled. Like so many others who sat in the stands of the Flamengo auditorium, he says he's fulfilling a childhood dream:
"I'm very happy to be welcomed this way. Flamengo is a huge club, with wonderful fans, and I'm excited to be part of the club's history. It's a remarkable day in my life. Every kid, when they start playing, wants to come here."
At 28, the midfielder returns to Brazilian football after stints with Manchester United and Besiktas in Turkey. He is suspended by FIFA until January 2008 due to his unilateral termination of his contract with the Turkish club. Therefore, he will only be able to debut for his new club on February 1st of next year.
Understand Kléberson's legal imbroglio:
Current status: 1. Kléberson is suspended by FIFA for four months for unilateral breach of contract. He will also have to pay a fine to Besiktas. 2. The player's lawyers have filed a request for a stay of execution so that the athlete can play and an appeal against the outcome of the trial. This appeal will be heard in May 2008.
What does Flamengo want? 1. The red-and-black club signed a contract from October 1st until the end of 2008 and wants Kléberson's four-month suspension to be served immediately. To achieve this, the athlete's lawyers need to successfully revoke the request for a stay of suspension at FIFA and inform them that the midfielder will serve his sentence until February 1st. 2. If successful, Flamengo intends to agree to a four- or five-year contract with Kléberson. 3. If the request for a stay of suspension is not revoked, the player will have to serve the four-month suspension starting January 1st, 2009. This way, he would be able to play normally for Flamengo in 2008.
As a child, Kléberson failed at Fla
At the age of 14, he couldn't handle the pressure from the red-black club and returned to Paraná.
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléberson kisses Flamengo's shirt during presentation at Gávea
Kléberson and Flamengo have the chance to rewrite a story that went wrong 14 years ago. Still in his early stages as a player, he was brought to Gávea by former player Marinho and failed.
"I tried out when I was 14. But I was really scared of Rio and didn't do well. I gave up and went back to Paraná," says the player.
After spells at Atlético-PR, Manchester United, and Besiktas, he reunites with the club he dreamed of playing for. Now, in a very different situation. The only thing that could scare him is the strength of the fans. But at 28, the chance to play at Maracanã only brings anxiety.
- I see the Maracanã packed and I hope the day comes soon when I can experience this moment with the fans - says the player, whose debut is expected to take place in February 2008.
STJD absolves Fla once again
Club not punished for showering glasses of water in derby against Vasco
The Superior Court of Sports Justice acquitted Flamengo, by a vote of 3 to 2, in the trial over cups thrown onto the pitch during the derby against Vasco da Gama on the 16th at Maracanã Stadium in the Brazilian Championship. The incident occurred when Leo Moura tied the game and celebrated in front of the opposing fans (watch the video below).
The red-and-black club was charged under Article 213 (failure to take measures capable of preventing or suppressing disorder on its sports ground) of the Brazilian Code of Sports Justice. The penalty could be a fine of R$10 to R$200 and the loss of home-field privileges for one to three matches.
Last week, Fla was also acquitted in a trial over the pitch invasion by the folkloric Beijoqueiro, in a match against Goiás, also at Maracanã.
Throw
Flamengo presents Kleberson with a party
Supporter is welcomed by around 50 fans in Gávea
Kleberson says he will have to contain his excitement to debut in 2008 (Credit: Cléber Mendes)
LANCEPRESS!
To the sound of the Flamengo anthem played by the Charanga Rubro-Negra (Rubro-Negra Charanga), midfielder Kleberson was greeted by around 50 fans at his official unveiling as a Flamengo player this Wednesday in Gávea. He was even carried in their arms and felt for the first time the strength of Brazil's largest fan base.
"I'm very happy to be welcomed this way. Flamengo is very big and has wonderful fans," said the midfielder.
Kleberson, like many players, confessed that since he was a child he dreamed of wearing the red and black shirt:
"Flamengo has a wonderful history. Every kid wants to play here and at Maracanã. I think it's a dream I've had since I was a kid, and it was a defining moment in my early life," he said.
Kleberson hasn't played an official match since April of this year, when he left Besiktas in Turkey. He'll have to wait to make his debut, as registration for the Brasileirão has closed.
"Unfortunately, I can't play anymore this year. I'll have to control my anxiety and work hard to be ready to report to the group in February," the player said.
Marcelinho signs with Flamengo until 2009
National Team Captain, winger will be presented at Gávea at 11 am this Thursday
Marcelinho is the captain of the National Team (Credit: CBB)
LANCEPRESS!
A major addition to Flamengo's basketball team, winger Marcelinho Machado signed a contract with the club until the end of 2009 and will report to Gávea at 11 a.m. this Thursday to begin training for the Rio State Championship, which begins this week. He had an excellent season with Zalgiris Kaunas (Lithuania).
The opening opponent will be Volta Redonda, this Saturday at 18 p.m., in the Steel City. Even though he's unable to play, the Brazilian National Team captain will be with the team. His first game could be in the classic against Fluminense on the 7th, at a location yet to be determined by the Rio de Janeiro Basketball Federation (FBERJ).
"I've been out of action for 15 days and out of rhythm. I need a few days to get back in shape and be able to help the team. I wanted to return to Brazil, and Flamengo gave me the opportunity. They made me an international-level offer, and I'm sure it will be special, because it's not every team that has fans like the red-and-blacks behind you," said the winger, who will play alongside his brother Duda and will have his other brother Ricardo as the team's physiotherapist.
Upon returning to Brazil and his hometown, a very important factor came into play: the restructuring of Rio's basketball scene.
"Before the Pan American Games, I immediately thought how wonderful it would be to see a big classic played at the Multiuso Arena, how wonderful it would be if the teams in the shirts could build strong squads and play in front of large crowds again. And I was very happy to see Flamengo, Fluminense, and Vasco confirmed. It's a shame Botafogo didn't make the cut," he emphasized, having turned down high-profile offers from clubs in Latvia, Lithuania, and Spain to sign with the Red-Blacks.
Roger leaves Flamengo training with a thigh injury
Flamengo doctor takes the supporter for an imaging exam
Roger felt a thigh injury again (Credit: Paulo Sérgio)
LANCEPRESS!
Supporter Roger left Flamengo's training session before finishing on Wednesday. He felt pain in his left hamstring again.
Roger left Gávea with club doctor José Luís Runco to undergo an imaging exam.
Contrary to what happened, Roger left the field looking unwell, as he wasn't limping and put his hand on his head.
The midfielder has had a series of injuries that have kept him out of the team: a strain in his right thigh and two contractures in his left thigh.
Joel bothered by Roger's problem
Supporter left training with muscle pain and is expected to miss the match against Atlético-MG
LANCEPRESS!
Roger's withdrawal from training this Wednesday due to muscle pain upset coach Joel Santana, who was counting on the midfielder for Saturday's match against Atlético-MG at Maracanã. The midfielder has already suffered a strained right thigh and two strains in his left thigh.
"What happened was unpleasant. We were counting on him. Roger was going to be part of the group for this game. Talking to Runco and me, he was crying and upset. He was getting ready to come back and help us," he said.
Joel Santana also commented that he still didn't know if Roger would play on Saturday.
"I was irritated because they were rushing things. I hadn't even practiced with the ball, and only then would I decide the lineup," said the coach, who in last Tuesday's press conference said that Flamengo wasn't just about Roger.
The supporter underwent an imaging test that did not reveal any injury to his left thigh.
Joel works with an emphasis on marking
Goals conceded in recent games make the coach redouble his attention
LANCEPRESS!
Joel Santana led a tactical training session this Wednesday and emphasized marking. The coach repeated the formation that led to a 2-2 draw with Juventude, using only half the pitch.
While Maxi and Souza stayed in the attacking field shooting at goal, all the other players practiced marking and getting the ball out to attack.
Roger trained with the reserves and Renato Augusto did specific physical work.
The starting lineup was made up of: Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Romulo, Jaílton, Cristian and Toró; Souza and Maxi.