The Globe
Much more than a full-back
The team's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship, Juan becomes a key player in Joel's Flamengo
Photo caption: JUAN LEAVES the Gávea pool. The full-back is Flamengo's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship with four goals.
Mauricio Fonseca
Coach Joel Santana won't know who he can count on for tomorrow's derby against Botafogo until today. Besides wanting to observe Renato Augusto a little more, who's expected to replace Maxi, who's ruled out due to a muscle injury, the Flamengo coach is awaiting the final verdict on Roger and Juan, who were sent off against Fluminense. If he loses Roger, Joel will have to rack his brains to decide which team to choose. What he's not counting on under any circumstances is being without Juan, the team's standout performer so far in the Brazilian Championship.
"Juan is a mature player, going through a great phase. He's very technical, a good finisher, and has good physical fitness. He's one of Brazil's best full-backs," Joel said yesterday.
Ten thousand tickets have already been sold
The red-and-black coach isn't exaggerating. With four goals, the 25-year-old left-back is the team's top scorer in the Brazilian Championship. Against Goiás on Sunday, he scored his second consecutive goal – having already scored in the 4-0 rout of Juventude.
The son of a middle-class São Paulo family, Juan was raised within the São Paulo youth system. For eight years, he had Kaká as a teammate in the Morumbi youth academy.
- Kaká was often a reserve in the youth teams, but he always received special treatment at the club, due to his technique and also his intelligence - he said.
They split in 2000, when the full-back was signed by Arsenal after attracting attention at a youth tournament in the Netherlands. Juan lived in London for two and a half years and only played for the English club's B team.
"My time in English football was very good for me. I went there alone and had to adapt to a new style of play and life," says the player, who lives in Botafogo with his wife, Renata.
When he received an offer from Fluminense to return to Brazil in 2004, he accepted the challenge immediately. He needed to prove himself. After all, he played in England, but no one knew him in Brazilian football.
"Readjusting wasn't easy. I really felt the heat in Rio at first, not to mention the way the team played. My second year in Laranjeiras was much better," he recalled, adding that, after three and a half years in the city, he already feels completely adapted.
The national team is clearly in his plans, even if it's not a permanent fixture. And Juan has every right to dream of wearing the yellow jersey. After all, the country doesn't have many top-level full-backs, and not even Gilberto and Kleber, who have been called up, are unanimous in the country:
- Of course I want to make the national team. But no stress. Things have to happen naturally.
Having been sent off for his second yellow card in the Fla-Flu match, Juan is likely to be acquitted. Roger, however, is at greater risk, having been mentioned in two articles. Maxi is out and is expected to be replaced by Renato Augusto, who scored yesterday in the 3-0 win over Guanabara in a training match held at Gávea. In any case, Joel will only announce the team moments before the game.
Tickets for the classic have been on sale since Friday, from 11 a.m. to 17 p.m., at the following locations: Gávea, General Severiano, Caio Martins, Rio-Sampa, Laranjeiras, Barra da Tijuca Kappa Store, and Maracanã ticket office 8. Advance sales end tomorrow at 17 p.m. After that, they are only available at the stadium ticket offices. Grandstands cost R$25; lower seats, R$20; and special seats, R$100. Approximately 10 tickets have already been sold.
Fernando Calazans
Real life
For the past two or three games, Flamengo fans have been celebrating at Maracanã. It was beautiful. Last Sunday's victory over Goiás was even more impressive. The stadium was packed. The score was convincing: 3-1. Headlines in every newspaper and column in Rio, including this one. That's fine. Who wouldn't be captivated by a crowd like that? But then, reality will have to sink in: it's not a celebration.
On the contrary, it's even bleak. Because something very, very bad is happening to Flamengo, without the fans or management realizing it. What the club is celebrating with parties and flags isn't the championship title. Not even a place in the final, the semifinals, or anything like that, which, by the way, doesn't exist in the Brazilian Championship.
What Flamengo is celebrating, on the streets and in the bars too, is escaping the relegation zone. I'll repeat: Flamengo is even celebrating escaping the relegation zone.
What does this mean? It means that the immense fan base, this unparalleled fan base, as I wrote yesterday, is already getting used to what the last few years have brought: a Flamengo team falling down the table, fighting to avoid relegation to the Second Division.
And let's face it: Flamengo isn't a club that's content with simply remaining in the First Division. Flamengo has been Brazilian champion five times. Flamengo is something else, much bigger than just a championship participant, a mere supporting player. Do me a favor, managers and fans: this isn't Flamengo.
What I want to know (and I think the millions of fans across Brazil should also want to know) is this: when will Flamengo return to competing for the Brazilian Championship title?\ Ah, that's what I want to know.\
Renato Mauricio Prado
Tiebreaker
In the good victory over Goiás, last Sunday, Flamengo broke the attendance record in this Brazilian Championship, but this mark should only last until tomorrow, when the red-black will face Botafogo - the best-ranked Rio de Janeiro club in the table and against whom they have already played, this year, four very exciting games, all ending in draws, with many goals!
In the State Championship, there were three duels (3-3, in the Guanabara Cup, and twice 2-2, in the title decision, which ended up going to Fla, in the penalty shootout).
In the three matches, the black and white team was technically superior, led the scoreboard most of the time, but was unable to win.
Given both teams' record in the Brasileirão (in the first round, there was another 2-2 draw), Glorioso is once again the favorite. But as in classics, that doesn't mean much; the outlook is for a great game, with the promise of plenty of goals and excitement until the end. Everyone to the Maracanã!
While Botafogo is expected to see Dodô return, Flamengo is facing the certainty of losing Maxi (who is a truly good player and has been playing well in attack) and the doubts surrounding Roger and Renato Augusto. Symptomatically, all three have muscle problems...
If neither of them can be counted on, only the roar of the fans and the famous red-and-black spirit can balance the game. As long as, of course, Joel Santana doesn't make the mistake of fielding Léo Lima...\ Important: a draw this time is a bad result for both Flamengo and Botafogo.\
Ancelmo Gois
Olavo Santana
It's an old joke. But Flamengo's Luís Carlos Barreto said yesterday, all excited about Flamengo's exit from the relegation zone, that "Joel Santana's new name is Olavo."
It's just that, like the character in the soap opera "Paraíso Tropical" did with Bebel, the coach got Flamengo out of the doldrums. It makes sense.
Sports Journal
Maxi is out of the classic against Botafogo
Maxi Biancucchi has already scored twice for Flamengo
Argentine Maxi Biancucchi is out of the derby against Botafogo this Wednesday at 20:30 pm at Maracanã. After an examination on Monday, a grade one strain was detected in his left thigh. The Argentine felt the injury after a sprint in the last game, against Goiás. The Rubro-Negro beat Esmeraldino 3-1, and the player displayed the grit and skill that fans have become accustomed to seeing.
Maxi wanted to play in Wednesday's derby at all costs, but the club's medical department decided to rest him to avoid a bigger problem later. Since the case isn't serious, there's a good chance Messi's cousin will return to the team for the match against Sporting next Sunday at the Maracanã.
Are you playing or not, Joel?
The red-and-black coach is hiding his plans. He prefers to keep Maxi's lineup a mystery.
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Maxi is in a lot of pain, but Joel says he can play
Still riding high on an excellent and incredible streak of four wins in the last five games, Flamengo is experiencing a climate of complete euphoria after spending more than two months in the relegation zone and having managed to temporarily escape relegation.
After yesterday's training session at Gávea, the club's medical department reported that an MRI performed on striker Maxi Biancucci revealed a grade-one muscle strain in his left thigh, and that, as a result, he would be ruled out of tomorrow's derby against Botafogo. The hope was that the player would be ready to play Saturday against Sport at Maracanã. However, coach Joel Santana made a point of creating a sense of mystery.
"Who said Maxi won't play? The medical department gave me hope of having him, so much so that he'll be joining us in training. I intend to use my best, my full strength against Botafogo," the coach said dismissively. Despite Joel's expectations of having the foreigner up front, the news from the player himself isn't all that positive. Maxi admitted that he's unlikely to be fit to play tomorrow.
"I'm still in a lot of pain. Last night was terrible for me, I could barely sleep. I felt a lot of discomfort," Maxi admitted, before being pulled by the coach to the locker room so he couldn't give any more tips to his opponent. In an ironic tone, Joel called to the striker: "Maxi, come here because I need to 'talk' (sic) to you." He provoked much laughter from those who witnessed the scene.
Maxi arrived at Flamengo early last month and, despite the fans' initial distrust, managed to prove his worth and became one of the team's favorites. In five games for Flamengo, he scored two goals, against Fluminense and Juventude. The injury in last Sunday's match thwarted Joel's plans, but since Maxi has already proven himself to be a hero, the hope of seeing him on the field in the derby isn't over yet.
Joel Santana without lineup, so as not to give tips
Renato Augusto is physically fit to play, but Joel doesn't confirm it
Coach Joel Santana received more good news yesterday afternoon. Midfielder Renato Augusto, recovered from a strained right thigh, is cleared to return to action. The player hasn't played in an official match since the 2-1 victory over Náutico at Maracanã.
However, Renato's presence in tomorrow's derby against Botafogo has yet to be confirmed. Once again, Joel remained mum about the starting lineup.
"I'm not saying he'll start on the bench or in the starting lineup so as not to give Cuca any clues. Renato is very important, but he's been out of a few matches and will need some time to get back into shape. I might start him against Botafogo, but I still want confirmation from the medical department to know if he's fully recovered," explained the red-and-black manager.
Joel's caution has a special reason. Last week, the midfielder had already been cleared to return for the match against Juventude, but the coach chose to rest him for the weekend's match against Goiás. A day after the rout of the Rio Grande do Sul club, Renato Augusto felt the injury again and was once again absent from the team.
Now, however, the midfielder appears to be fully recovered. Proof of this is that yesterday he participated in the reserves' training match against Guanabara and performed well, moving well and even scoring a goal.
Roger asks for caution from the red-black fans
Supporter Roger cools off in the Gávea pool after the team's recovery
One of the symbols of Flamengo's rebirth in this Brazilian Championship, midfielder Roger, who missed Sunday's victory over Goiás, has been cleared by the medical department. However, as he will be tried today at the Superior Court of Justice (STJD), the player is not yet confirmed for the derby. He emphasized that despite recent victories, there is still nothing to celebrate.
"Until recently, people were saying it would be difficult for us to avoid relegation. Now that we're out, people are already talking about the Libertadores. The group needs to be calm because we haven't won anything yet, we've just left the relegation zone. Here, the praise and criticism are reaching enormous proportions. We need to work hard to maintain this good form," analyzed Roger.
One example the supporter cited that this Brazilian Championship is marked by ups and downs is that Botafogo, tomorrow's opponent, is rediscovering its best form after a period of instability. Roger expects a very difficult match against a team he considers one of the best in this championship.
Coach Joel Santana agrees with his supporter, but dismisses the idea that the black and white team is favored for a better position in the table: "In football, there is no favoritism. Generally, in other sports, the best team wins, but just like in horse racing, the best horse doesn't always win," he compared.
STJD, an old acquaintance of Fla
Once again, the Superior Court of Sports Justice appears in the club's path
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Despite his good form, full-back Juan is struggling with the expectation of the STJD trial
Coach Joel Santana and forward Souza already know him. And two more Flamengo players face the Superior Court of Sports Justice. Midfielder Roger, charged under Article 250 (committing an unfair or inappropriate act during the match) and Article 258 (acting contrary to discipline or sporting morals), and left-back Juan, also under Article 250, will be tried today. Both players were sent off in the match against Fluminense.
If punished, the players will miss tomorrow's big derby against Botafogo. The club's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, explained how the defense will attempt to secure the players' acquittal.
"We're going to try to show that the expulsions only happened because the players received their second yellow card. If we analyze the isolated incident, we'll see that they shouldn't have been sent off. So we don't think they deserve a greater punishment," said the lawyer.
Juan, who is in excellent form, hopes to be acquitted so he can participate in the classic against Botafogo.
"If my expulsion hadn't caused concern, I wouldn't have gone to trial. I hope everything goes as smoothly as possible so I can be on the field and help Flamengo win this derby," said Juan.
Midfielder Roger, who has recovered from a right thigh injury, has to face this new problem. He hopes to be cleared so he can shine against Botafogo.
"I have my head on straight. I've never been sent off for violence or for playing illegally. I'm going to the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) to give my version of what happened, hoping to be acquitted. I hope everything goes well so I can play against Botafogo, as I've been undergoing intensive treatment these past few days, hoping to be on the field," he said.
For psychologist, period at Granja Comary was fundamental for Fla
The season of total concentration imposed by coach Joel Santana to help Flamengo escape the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship paid off. According to the club's psychologist, Paulo Ribeiro, the time at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, where the team trained in recent weeks, was crucial to Flamengo's rise in the competition.
"This moment of concentration we had in Teresópolis was the most significant and fundamental factor in getting us back on track. The fact that the athletes had lunch together, trained together, and slept together helped to bring together ideas and concepts," said the doctor, who also highlighted the group's positive momentum.
"It was the best way to get back on track. This moment is a result of the players' integration and attitude over the past few years," said the doctor, who emphasized the importance of coach Joel Santana's return to the team's improvement.
"Joel's return helped a lot. He's well-regarded by the Flamengo fans; he's a friendly person and created a positive atmosphere. He's a good listener; the entire coaching staff is involved in the team's preparation; he was the key to this recovery," added Paulo Ribeiro.
Roger and Renato Augusto return to Fla against Botafogo
Two pieces of good news for Flamengo this Monday. The club's medical department has cleared midfielders Roger and Renato Augusto for this Wednesday's derby against Botafogo at Maracanã.
Roger only missed the last match, against Goiás, and watched from home as Rubro-negro beat Esmeraldino 3-1. He had felt pain in his right thigh in the previous game, in the 4-0 win over Juventude.
Renato Augusto, on the other hand, had been out of the team for longer. The number 10 experienced the same problem on August 11th, when Flamengo beat Náutico 2-1. However, the young talent took longer to recover from the injury.
O Dia
FLA: joy is back
Despite the problems in defining Fla for the classic with Botafogo, Joel Santana does not stop smiling, after taking the red-black team out of the relegation zone
Martha Esteves
Rio - At Flamengo, everything changes suddenly. Words from coach Joel Santana. On Sunday, minutes after beating Goiás, the coach was betting everything on the recovery of striker Maxi, who left the game after experiencing pain in his left thigh. The Argentine would have loved to face Botafogo tomorrow night, but an MRI revealed a grade 1 (the mildest) strain, and it's unlikely the 'brother' will be in the starting lineup.
Whether it's a show or not, Joel announced that the Argentine is on the list of players selected for the important derby, along with Renato Augusto and Roger, who are recovering from injuries. Renato Augusto is expected to be on the bench, and Roger, like Juan, will be tried today by the Superior Court of Sports Justice.
Roger is cited under Articles 258 (acting contrary to discipline or sporting morals) and 250 (committing an unfair or inappropriate act during a match, competition, or similar). He was sent off against Fluminense and later attempted to simulate an attack on defender Luiz Alberto. Juan, sent off for a violent play, will be tried solely under Article 258.
"I have good information about Maxi. Renato Augusto trained well, and Roger also improved. Maybe I'll go full force. Everyone goes to the training camp, and I'll only announce the team at game time," warned Joel Santana.
Wearing a green shirt, Joel spoke of his hopes of beating Botafogo, earning points, and 'flying a little higher.' Even while emphasizing that there's no such thing as favoritism in a derby, the coach recognizes the quality of the black and white team.
"I'm not making predictions, but Botafogo is a quality team. It's going to be a tough, tight game. We're happy, but not overly excited, because Botafogo is coming," he warned.
FLA: Great goal that's worth the party
Cíntia, Íbson's wife, was moved by the midfielder's tribute to his unborn son.
Martha Esteves
Rio - The ball under her shirt, simulating a "big belly," moved the honoree. From the special seats at Maracanã, Cíntia, wife of midfielder Íbson and seven months pregnant, watched her husband score his first goal after returning to Flamengo.
Everything is almost ready for the baby's arrival. But a doubt lingers in the red-and-black couple's minds. Íbson insisted on giving his name to his son, who is due in October. Cíntia liked and approved of her husband's self-honor. But now, she's unsure whether the baby will be Júnior or Filho. All because she fears not being able to give the boy her last name.
"I learned that a son must have the exact same name as his father when he has Filho or Júnior in his name. It wouldn't be very nice if my son didn't have my last name. We're still figuring it out. Maybe he'll just be Íbson, but without Júnior or Filho," says Cíntia, who went to Gávea with her husband yesterday.
The first-time mom doesn't experience the tension that usually surrounds women. She hasn't even bought a layette yet and calmly says she's in no rush: "We'll go out and buy it sometime."
Íbson has a more pressing concern: helping the team beat Botafogo. Happy with the team's good form, both on and off the field, the supporter, like most Flamengo fans, is optimistic about tomorrow's match, but also urges special attention to their rival. "Everyone knows it will be a very difficult game, but there are no favorites. The important thing is that Flamengo is improving game by game and has everything it needs to climb even higher."
The supporter believes the optimistic atmosphere will be beneficial for the team's recovery in the Brazilian Championship. Psychologist Paulo Ribeiro agrees. He believes the training regime imposed by the coaching staff at Granja Comary last week had the desired effect.
"This concentration was the most important factor in getting us back on track. This positive moment is a result of the players' integration and, above all, their attitude," explained the psychologist.
Top scorer, Juan is already working on his renewal
Rio - Left-back Juan's notebook lists four goals and eight assists in the Brazilian Championship. Flamengo's top scorer in the competition, Juan also provided passes that resulted in goals in the following matches: Palmeiras, Botafogo, Internacional, Paraná, América-RN, Náutico, Fluminense, and Juventude. He found the net against Goiás, Internacional, Juventude, and again against Goiás.
Happy with his excellent form, Juan is already negotiating a contract renewal, which ends in December of next year. He swears he never aspired to be Flamengo's top scorer.
"It's nice to score goals and help the team get out of this bad situation, but I'll continue to root for Obina, Souza and Maxi to score lots of goals," he said.
After suffering the pain of being in the relegation zone for 15 rounds, Flamengo still can't breathe a sigh of relief. Juan warned that there's still a lot of work ahead and that they'll need to seek victory against Botafogo on Wednesday.
"It's going to be a very tough game, and we haven't beaten Botafogo yet this year. We'll have to play a game of intelligence and patience. I hope the fans come to the stadium to cheer us on," Juan said.
Sports Gazette
Joel will have difficulty choosing Flamengo in the classic\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Despite enjoying a strong run in the Brazilian Championship, having won four of its last five games, Flamengo is beginning to struggle with the marathon of matches in the competition. Coach Joel Santana finds himself with many players complaining of muscle problems, a situation that worsened after the match against Goiás, when Argentine Maximiliano Biancucchi suffered a thigh injury and is virtually out of Wednesday's derby against Botafogo. "I'm not a doctor, but I think Maxi is out of the derby. The injury he suffered isn't one that heals overnight," said the Flamengo coach.
Flamengo had already played in last Sunday's game without midfielder Roger, who suffered a muscle injury against Juventude. The player is expected to return to the team for Wednesday's derby, provided he isn't punished by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) on Tuesday for the red card he received against Fluminense on the 16th. Midfielder Renato Augusto, also suffering from a thigh problem, has been missing from the Rubro-Negro in recent games.
Coach Joel Santana faces another setback ahead of the derby. Midfielder Léo Medeiros received his third yellow card and will serve a suspension. However, the player was expected to return to the bench with Roger's release for the derby.
This Tuesday, Flamengo will hold its only training session before facing Botafogo. One of Flamengo's main concerns for the match is left-back Juan, who is enjoying one of the best spells of his career and will be judged this Tuesday for his red card against Fluminense.
"I'm good at attacking, and I'm having the freedom to do so here at Flamengo. I'm definitely in the best phase of my career, and I hope to help Flamengo climb higher in the Brazilian Championship. I think we're on the right track, but we have to keep working hard," he stated.
Leading the Brazilian league in assists with eight, Juan has also been demonstrating his goalscoring prowess, scoring in each of his last two games. The full-back's good form has encouraged the board, which narrowly avoided a transfer to Espanyol-ESP midway through the year. Flamengo has now submitted a proposal to renew the full-back's contract for another three years.
Maxi is vetoed by doctors\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Just as coach Joel Santana had feared, attacking midfielder Maximiliano Biancucchi will miss Flamengo's derby against Botafogo on Wednesday at the Maracanã. On Monday, the player underwent a medical exam that revealed a grade one strain in his left thigh. The good news came from midfielder Renato Augusto, who participated in a training match against Guanabara on Monday at the Gávea stadium and showed he had recovered from a muscle problem that had been keeping him out of the team. The only players who were included in the squad were those who didn't play against Goiás on Sunday.
This Tuesday afternoon, Joel Santana will lead a training session at Gávea, where he plans to prepare the team for the derby. The biggest doubts are left-back Juan and midfielder Roger, who will also be tried on Tuesday. Both were sent off against Fluminense.
PeléNet
Renato Augusto returns, but Fla could lose Maxi, Roger and Juan
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Having recovered from a left thigh strain, midfielder Renato Augusto has been cleared by Flamengo's medical department for the derby against Botafogo this Wednesday at Maracanã in the Brazilian Championship. However, the return of the athlete, who has been absent from the team's last four games, does not guarantee a full squad, as the team could lose Roger, Maxi, and Juan.
The former also missed Flamengo's last match against Goiás due to a muscle injury, but has since been cleared by doctors. However, he will be tried this Tuesday by the STJD (Superior Tribunal of Sports Justice) for his expulsion against Fluminense.
If convicted, Roger could be suspended for up to 13 matches, as he was charged under two articles of the CBJD (Brazilian Code of Sports Justice): 250 (disloyal act, with a penalty of one to three matches), for the foul on Soares, and 258 (attitude contrary to discipline, with a penalty of one to ten matches), for simulating an alleged assault by Luiz Alberto.
Roger doesn't hide his fear of missing the derby against Botafogo. "Any judgment is worrying," admitted the midfielder, who, on the other hand, tries to remain optimistic. "But I'm calm. I've never been sent off for a violent foul. I'm going there to give my testimony so I don't get suspended."
Left-back Juan, who scored two goals in Flamengo's last two games, will also be tried for his red card in the derby against Fluminense. Since he was only found guilty under Article 250, he could be suspended for one to three matches.
"I hope I can play. I've been on a good run. The expulsion is worrying. If it weren't for it, there wouldn't have been a need for a trial. I'm a bit nervous, but I'm hopeful of being acquitted," commented Juan.
Argentine Maxi Biancucchi is practically out of the derby against Botafogo due to an injury. During the match against Goiás, he felt a twinge in the back of his left thigh and was substituted.
On Monday, the club's medical department diagnosed a grade-one sprain in the area. Speaking to reporters, the player, who limped out of Gávea, admitted he was still in pain. However, coach Joel Santana assured that Messi's cousin's inclusion in the squad is not yet ruled out, and he will be included in the match.
Flamengo focuses on the classic this Monday
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The promised automatic cancellation of the training camp if Flamengo leaves the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship was not fulfilled by the Flamengo board. Even after the team leaves the relegation zone with the victory over Goiás, the squad will remain in training for the derby against Botafogo starting this Monday.
After this afternoon's training session in Gávea, the players will have just a few hours to spend at home with their families. By 22 p.m., everyone must be at the hotel where the group usually stays.
Despite the relief at Flamengo's exit from the relegation zone, coach Joel Santana highlighted that the team is still very close - just one point away - to the group of the last four placed teams.
"Our team shouldn't be where it is. We're still in a place we don't like. The fans have to be excited, but the players and coaching staff aren't," the coach explained.
Renato Augusto scores in training match
While the players who played the full 90 minutes in the victory over Goiás carried out regenerative training this Monday in Gávea, the other athletes played a training match against Guanabara, a team from the second division of Rio de Janeiro football.
During the activity, midfielder Renato Augusto scored a goal (his first of the training match, from a free kick) and performed well. This proved he had recovered from the left thigh strain he suffered during the victory over Náutico and was ready to face Botafogo. Midfielder Leandro Assumpção, signed from Madureira, scored the other goals in the 3-0 victory for the red-and-blacks.
Optimistic, Joel 'ignores' doubts and expects Flamengo to be complete
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Happy with Flamengo's exit from the Brazilian Championship relegation zone, coach Joel Santana expressed optimism regarding the significant doubts he faces regarding his starting lineup for Wednesday's derby against Botafogo at Maracanã in the Brazilian Championship. So much so that, despite Maxi's almost certain absence and the possible absences of Roger and Juan, the coach expects to field a full squad.
"Be careful, because you [journalists] may be in for a surprise. The medical department told me that there was no tear in the muscle fibers," Joel said, referring to the grade one strain in Maxi's left thigh diagnosed in an imaging exam on Monday.
"Renato Augusto and Roger trained well today [Monday] and didn't feel anything. I'm counting on everyone," continued the red-black coach.
Joel Santana also maintained his optimistic tone when discussing the possibility of losing left-back Juan and midfielder Roger in the players' trial at the STJD (Superior Court of Sports Justice) on Tuesday. "That pessimistic thought doesn't cross my mind. I think I'll go in with full force," the coach insisted.
Joel Santana also took advantage of the situation to praise the quality of his squad. According to the Flamengo coach, the squad has players ready to replace the starters if necessary.
"We're prepared for whatever happens. We have a quality squad. All the players coming in aren't compromising," said the coach, adding that he will only announce the team's lineup minutes before the derby begins.
Relief at escaping relegation\ With the victory over Goiás last Sunday, Flamengo moved up to 16th place in the Brazilian Championship. Thus, this Monday, Joel Santana was finally able to enjoy his first day of work outside the relegation zone since returning to the club.\
Therefore, he didn't hide his relief. "Of course, today [Monday] is a different day. We've been in that uncomfortable situation for 27 days," the coach commented, emphasizing that Flamengo is still not where it deserves to be. "Our team shouldn't be where it is. We're still in a place we don't like. I know we have the ability to reach higher heights," he emphasized.
BalloonSport
For Fla, Bebeto's son rejects La Coruña
A fanatical red-and-black, Matheus prefers to stay with his favorite team rather than go to Spain.
Barbara Carvalho
At 12 years old, Matheus wears the number 10 shirt in Flamengo's youth academy
Matheus Oliveira, son of four-time champion Bebeto, 12, is already a success in Flamengo's youth academy and recently played for the Brazilian under-13 national team. But even before reaching the Rubro-Negro's first team, the boy could have already left the club. Last year, the young star's family traveled to Spain and received an invitation for him to train with Deportivo La Coruña, the team his father excelled at. But, out of love for Flamengo, the promising star turned down the offer.
"Matheus was only 11 years old and would have to live alone there. The president of La Coruña, who extended the invitation, even said he could live at the training camp. Besides being very young, he didn't want to leave Flamengo for anything. He's a die-hard Flamengo fan. He was practically born there in Spain and raised there. The club president watched him grow up," says Denise, Matheus' mother and Bebeto's wife, in a telephone interview with GLOBOESPORTE.COM.
In the 1992/1993 season, Bebeto was signed by La Coruña and became a fan favorite. The team, which had not played in the First Division since the 1972/1973 season until the 1991/1992 season, came close to winning the Spanish title in 1993 and 1994, but lost to Barcelona.
'Packaged' in 1994
Bebeto didn't want to use his name to get Matheus into Fla
Matheus became famous as soon as he was born. At the 1994 World Cup, Bebeto celebrated his goal for the Netherlands as if he were carrying a baby. It was a tribute to his son, who had just been born in Brazil. Cradled in the arms of the then-national team striker, Matheus grew up surrounded by soccer, and his passion for the sport emerged naturally. At Flamengo, wearing the number 10 jersey, he already earned praise.
"He's a great player. He's very mentored by his father. He just can't try to be Bebeto. He handles the ball well and has a great shot," says the club's division coordinator, Moyses Saubel.
Because of the comparisons with the four-time champion, Denise has to talk to both her son and her husband so that the boy's career is not overshadowed by his father.
"We always told him it would be very complicated, but he wanted it even though he knew all the difficulties. Bebeto said he wouldn't get the "tryout" for him. Then a cousin of ours got Matheus to try out at Flamengo, and that's how he got in," says Denise, adding: "What I always tell Beto is, 'You were Bebeto, but you didn't have a Bebeto father like Matheus does.' Here in Brazil, people think that the sons of players have an easier time playing soccer, but that's not the case at all; quite the opposite. It's like that in Europe, it's easier. Here, there's just more pressure, and he's a kid, so we can't forget that."
Rivalry at home
Willing to do anything for soccer, Matheus has already gone to training with 14 stitches on his head and complains when his mother is late to take him to practice. The boy has no shortage of desire and commitment, and he lives with his "enemy" very close by:
"My oldest son (Roberto Newton) is a Vasco fan, and Matheus is a Flamengo fan. Their bedrooms face each other. It's really funny to see the doors bearing the symbols of such rival clubs," reveals the future star's mother.
Children, children of stars, seek space
Can last names be a hindrance for boys? Experts comment on the pressure
Barbara Carvalho
Enzo Zidane in the Real Madrid shirt in the game against Barcelona
"Like father, like son." The news is that the little ones are jumping out of the water much earlier. Bebeto, Zidane, and Romário are examples of parents who see their heirs taking their first steps in football while still children, and are already making headlines in the world press. But is bullying good for these boys, or could it hinder them?
GLOBOESPORTE.COM sought out experts to try to answer the question.
The son of former player Djalma Dias and father of a future athlete, Diego, 12, Djalminha has experience in this area. For the former midfielder, the boy, who trains at Flamengo, is on the right track, as he avoids using his last name to secure a spot on the team.
"I try to make him feel comfortable. I don't even bother asking questions. As a player, I end up getting very involved. I cheer, watch the games, and keep a critical eye. But he's very composed and always tries to distance himself from me," he says.
Captain of the Brazilian national team's third title in 1970, Carlos Alberto Torres has already seen his son, Alexandre Torres, build a career in soccer. The defender excelled, winning three Rio de Janeiro state championships with Vasco da Gama and also enjoyed success with Fluminense and in Japan. Now, it's his grandson, Carlos Eduardo, 8,'s turn to try to emulate his father and grandfather's success.
"There's always that comparison thing. All parents of players must suffer from it and worry about the pressure on their children. But if someone plays, they play, period. It doesn't matter who their father is. The guy will be recognized if he's good. They say Alexandre and I were the only father and son champions at the Maracanã," he recalls, still analyzing his grandson: "He's very young. But if he wants to be a soccer player, he will be. To play soccer, you have to really want to."
The sea is a mirror of "fathers and sons" these days. Romarinho, 13, played for Vasco's under-15 futsal team until this August. The son of star player Romário is now beginning a new phase in his precocious career: he will compete in the Campeonato Carioca for Vasco's under-12 team, on the field. Enzo Zidane, 13, is the eldest heir of Frenchman Zinedine Zidane and already displays his father's genes by playing in Real Madrid's youth academy, where he plans to pursue a career. Matheus, the same age, has Bebeto's blood and, in addition to playing for Flamengo, has even played for the Brazilian under-24 national team. But the boys know that a famous surname is no guarantee of success. One example is Thiago Coimba, Zico's youngest (XNUMX): with no chance at Flamengo, he's trying his luck at Portimonense, in the Portuguese Second Division.
"I don't recall many that were successful. Some might be successful, but of course they'll always be held accountable. This applies not only to soccer, but also to the children of artists, for example," analyzes commentator Roberto Assaf of SporTV.
Check out more details about some 'fish's sons':
ROMARINHO
Romarinho, 14, plays for Vasco da Gama. He wears the number 11 jersey, immortalized by his father. He took his first steps on the court, but this month he will compete in the Campeonato Carioca on the field.
ENZO ZIDANE\ Enzo Zidane, 12, plays for Real Madrid in the youth team. The eldest son of French star Zinedine Zidane, the boy already tries his hand at dribbling and says his father teaches him tricks at home.\
MATHEUS OLIVEIRA\ Matheus Oliveira, 12 years old, son of four-time champion Bebeto, is a fanatical Flamengo fan and already plays in the club's pre-youth category.\
DIEGO\ Diego, 12, is the son of Djalminha and grandson of former player Djalma Dias. He plays in Flamengo's youth academy alongside Matheus.\
RODRIGO\ Heir to star Roberto Dinamite, Rodrigo, 15, will begin training in the youth ranks of Fluminense. Son of the former Vasco player, Rodrigo began his career at CFZ, Zico's team.\
Roger says Fla is confident
The red-black midfielder believes the team is gaining shape as the games go by.
Marcio Iannacca
Roger says Fla is more confident
Upon arriving at Flamengo, midfielder Roger, in a press conference, asked for time for the new signings to adapt to their new club and begin to perform on the field. Now, just over a month later, Flamengo is beginning to reap the rewards of the chemistry between players like Ibson, Cristian, Fábio Luciano, Maxi, and Roger himself. For the player, the team only has room for improvement in the remainder of the Brazilian Championship.
"The team has shown more confidence. I said we needed some time to gel and improve our physical conditioning. Our team has quality and is finding its feet in the championship," says Roger.
Roger believes in a good campaign for Flamengo in the rest of the Brazilian Championship.
"The team has proven its quality and is gaining momentum. The team could achieve a better position in the Brazilian Championship," he analyzes.
Athirson apprehensive about reunion with Fla
Player admits he doesn't know what the reaction will be if he scores a goal against the club that discovered him
Gustavo Rotstein
Athirson guarantees that he will fight for Botafogo's victory next Wednesday
Although he didn't experience the atmosphere of the four matches between Botafogo and Flamengo in 2007, all of which ended in draws, Athirson will have a special feeling in next Wednesday's Brasileirão derby. For the first time, he'll face the club that made him famous wearing the jersey of another Rio de Janeiro club.
Athirson is eager to see how the red-and-black fans will react when he takes the field. With little chance of starting in the derby, the player admits he's still unsure how they'll react if he scores.
"I don't know what the Flamengo fans will have in store for me. I don't know what my reaction will be if I score a goal, but the respect will always be there," he explains.
The player, who last Sunday played only his second match for Botafogo, remembers that the commitment will be the same in the match against Flamengo.
- I left a bit of history at the club, but now I defend Botafogo, where I was well received by the players and the fans.
Coach complains about judgment
Joel questions the presence of Juan and Roger in the dock on the eve of the classic
Marcio Iannacca
Tension: Roger and Juan will be judged
Coach Joel Santana complained about the scheduling of Juan and Roger's trials. He believed the two athletes could be tried by the Superior Court of Sports Justice on the day of the derby, as will be the case with the Botafogo players. Upset, he lamented:
"Our players will be judged on the eve of the derby, and if they're suspended, they won't be available for our team. Botafogo's players will be judged on the day of the game and will be able to play, even if suspended," complains Joel Santana.
The coach hopes the two players won't be punished by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD). He believes Juan and Roger are key players in his scheme and in Flamengo's recovery in the Brazilian Championship.
Permanent concentration is the law in Fla
The sequence of games is the reason given by the board for keeping the players 'locked up'
Marcio Iannacca
Kléber Leite defends concentration at Fla
Since August 9th, Flamengo's players have had a different routine than usual. By order of the board, the group remained in permanent training. The players participated in training and then went straight to their hotel in Barra da Tijuca, west of Rio de Janeiro. Even those suspended and injured were not spared, sleeping away from home.
According to the club's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, the measure was taken because of Flamengo's sequence of games in the Brazilian Championship.
"Until September 16th, Flamengo will play every three days. Something was needed to regulate the players' rest and nutrition," says Kléber Leite, citing Souza, Renato Augusto, and Roger, who remained focused even though they were away from coach Joel Santana.
Last weekend's example was midfielder Roger. The player was injured in the match against Juventude last Thursday and went to the training camp. On Friday, he returned to the club for treatment and slept at the hotel. The next day, he was in Gávea and was finally released to sleep at home.
- On Sunday, I also had treatment and went to the game. The concentration has been like this - says Roger.
High price takes Paraguayan from Gávea
Midfielder Victor Cáceres was close to a deal. Joel wants another guard dog.
Eduardo Peixoto .
Marcio Iannacca
Flamengo has climbed the Brazilian Championship table, but the board isn't complacent. At the request of coach Joel Santana, the club is looking for a defensive midfielder to compete with Rômulo for a position. The club even negotiated with Paraguayan Victor Cáceres, but the financial agreement failed.
At 22, the Libertad player was considered "expensive" by Flamengo standards. Cáceres was pre-selected for the Paraguayan national team in the last Copa América, but was ultimately cut from the final squad.
Although quite pleased with Rômulo's performance, Joel asked the board to hire another player for the position. Paulinho recently left the club, and Jaílton is no longer in the coach's good graces.
Exam confirms Maxi's injury
Argentine has a grade one strain in his left thigh and is out of the classic
Eduardo Peixoto
Maxi returns from medical examination
Maxi Biancucchi is out of the match against Botafogo. On Monday, the Flamengo player underwent an MRI at a clinic in Rio's south zone and was diagnosed with a grade one (the mildest) strain in his left thigh.
Messi's cousin was injured in the second half of Sunday's 3-1 victory over Goiás. Although he's still walking with difficulty, Maxi has a good chance of playing against Sporting next Saturday.
Despite the injury, the Argentine was not convinced that he would be out of the game against Botafogo.
"He asked me to play on Wednesday. But I countered and said that a grade one injury requires caution. So, the tendency is for him to be released over the weekend," says doctor Walter Martins.
Throw
Maxi is definitely out of Wednesday's classic
The Argentine will miss Flamengo's match against Botafogo, but could return on Saturday against Sport at the Maracanã.
Flamengo coach Joel Santana received two pieces of good news: Renato Augusto and Roger have been cleared by the medical department and can face Botafogo. On the other hand, the coach has a problem: striker Maxi is out of next Wednesday's derby.
The Argentine underwent an imaging test that detected a grade 1 injury to his left thigh. Maxi felt the problem in Sunday's match against Goiás. In the second half, he took a running start and fell to the ground, being immediately replaced by Obina.
Flamengo's medical department expects Maxi to recover by Saturday's game against Sport at Maracanã.
Roger doesn't want to fuss about Fla's current situation
Supporter highlights that the team is still far from the Libertadores
Midfielder Roger has been cleared by Flamengo's medical department to play against Botafogo next Wednesday. Having recovered from the pain in his right thigh that sidelined him for Sunday's match against Goiás, the player, however, isn't confident he'll return to the team for the derby. Roger still feels pain when sprinting.
Flamengo's promotion to the Brazilian Championship coincides with Roger's arrival. Despite this, he doesn't want to be affected by any potential hype at Gávea.
"When I arrived, the news was that Flamengo wouldn't make it out of the relegation zone. Now that we're out, they're even talking about the Libertadores. When things aren't going well, the criticism is harsh. When things are right, the praise is greater than it deserves," Roger stated sincerely.
Roger continued to "lower the bar" for the red-and-blacks. For him, qualifying for the Copa Libertadores is still a distant dream.
"We're still only in 16th place. Anyone in that position can't think about the Libertadores. We haven't even escaped relegation yet," he emphasized.
Juan and Roger worried about the trial
Flamengo players sent off against Flu will be tried this Tuesday
Left-back Juan and midfielder Roger could miss a few more matches for Flamengo due to red cards received in the Fla-Flu match. Both have already served automatic suspensions against Palmeiras, but will be tried by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) this Tuesday and may have their sentences increased.
According to Juan, the trial has been keeping him up at night these past few days. He's in great form, and he knows that stopping playing at this point could be bad not only for the team, but especially for himself.
"I hope to play. I'm on a good run. The expulsion is worrying; if it weren't for it, there wouldn't be a need for a trial. I'm a little nervous, but I'm hopeful I'll be acquitted," said Juan.
For Roger, who in addition to the foul that resulted in his expulsion also simulated an assault when leaving the field, a punishment greater than a match would be unfair.
"I'm in a good frame of mind, I know I've never been violent. I'm not one to get sent off for a violent play. I'm going to court to give my testimony," said Roger.
Joel doesn't want to see Fla named as the favorite
In the atmosphere of the classic, the coach says that 'there is no favoritism in football and on horse racing', but 'Fla will seek its place'
Coach Joel Santana, who is no fool, has already started using the rhetoric that there is no favorite in the derby between Flamengo and Botafogo this Wednesday. Even with the Red-Black team on a roll in the competition, after four straight wins at Maracanã, Joel doesn't believe his team is in a better spot than their opponent, who is higher up in the standings.
"There's no favoritism in football or horse racing. There, the horse that's going to win sometimes loses. And here, the same thing happens. Botafogo is in a better position in the table; they're a great team. But Flamengo has been improving in the competition, and we have the ability to face them," he emphasized.
The coach is calm about the euphoric atmosphere at Gávea, after the good results that took the team out of the relegation zone.
"It was a joyful return, because we managed to leave the last four positions in the table. But there's no reason to celebrate. We're in 16th place, and that's not where Flamengo belongs. We have one of the five best squads in the Brazilian league, and we're going to strive for a better place in the standings," he assured.
Renato Augusto and Roger return in the classic
Flamengo will have the reinforcement of its two supporters against Bota
Renato and Roger return to the team against Fogão (Credit: Cléber Mendes)
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo will have two important reinforcements for this Wednesday's derby against Botafogo at Maracanã. Midfielders Roger and Renato Augusto have been cleared by the medical department and are available for coach Joel Santana.
Roger missed Flamengo's 3-1 victory over Goiás this Sunday. The midfielder felt pain in his right thigh during the victory over Juventude last Thursday.
Renato Augusto, however, was absent from the team for a longer period. The midfielder was injured in the match against Náutico on August 11th. Interestingly, after Renato Augusto left the team, Flamengo won three of its four matches (Fluminense, Juventude, and Goiás) and lost one (Palmeiras).