The Globe
Emotion on the surface of the red-black skin
Maracanã revives the passion and mystique of the Flamengo era of Zico and company
The star of the night, Zico, a creator of beautiful plays, tries a bicycle kick in vain. Beside him, watched by Renato Gaúcho, he caresses Leonardo, scorer of Flamengo's first goal, the 1987 Brazilian champion, who beat goalkeeper Acácio after receiving a pass from Zico himself.
Dubbed the "Game of the Stars," the party organized by Zico upon his return to Maracanã had the primary goal of helping the less fortunate. It ended up being a huge, belated Christmas present to the 35 fans who flocked to Maracanã and turned it into a veritable Flamengo celebration. Flamengo, the 510 Brazilian champions, had plenty of beautiful plays in their 8-5 victory over Zico's Friends, especially the former star, who scored two goals, one of which he dribbled past the defender and slotted past the goalkeeper.
With chants that propelled the current team to third place in the Brazilian Championship and a spot in the Copa Libertadores, Flamengo fans, the overwhelming majority of those in attendance, were the elite audience for a thrilling night, which featured plenty of former stars and great names from the past and present. In addition to Zico, Júnior, Leandro, Aldair, Leonardo, Renato Gaúcho, and Edu, also participating were active players such as Adriano, Deco, Vágner Love, Carlos Alberto, Ibson, and Leonardo Moura.
As soon as Flamengo, the '87 Brazilian champions—without Bebeto, who was unable to attend due to personal commitments—and the Amigos do Zico team took the field, the Maracanã briefly revived the mystique and passion of a time so deeply missed. From the stands, adults and children sang the victory theme, chanted that Zico was better than Pelé, and joked with Roberto Dinamite, the club's eternal rival and sometimes tormentor.
"Everything is very beautiful. I just have to thank the people who helped organize the party," said Zico, always under constant pressure.
Left-back for the 1987 red-and-black team and current director of Milan, Leonardo was one of the most enthusiastic about the festive night:
- Perhaps only Flamengo can bring this together. There's over a hundred years of Flamengo history in the figure of one person, Zico, a person so important in my career.
One of Judge Wagner Tardelli's assistants, lineswoman Ana Paula Oliveira, also couldn't hide her satisfaction at being able to participate in the charity event. And, as expected, she praised Zico:
"The Maracanã is always magnificent. Zico deserves all the praise, not only for the great player he was, but for the person he is. This celebration is proof of that. He deserves a lot of respect."
Fans cheer for the Zico-Obina duo
Zico gave a glimpse of the game's spirit in the first minute, when he attempted a bicycle kick after a cross from Renato Gaúcho. Amoroso opened the scoring for the opponent after receiving a pass from Marcelinho Carioca, but soon after, Leonardo equalized after receiving a pass from the night's leader. In the 20th minute, Leandro gave way to Obina, and the fans saw Flamengo's greatest idol of all time tirelessly putting the striker in scoring positions.
At 41, Obina was awarded a penalty by Acácio and Zico converted, scoring the first of his two goals at the Maracanã. In the second half, in the 28th minute, Zico left the field and his brother Edu came on. By then, the party was complete. For Flamengo in 87, Zico (2), Leonardo, Leonardo Moura, Ibson, Obina, and Adriano (2) scored. For the Friends of Zico team, Amoroso (2), Vágner Love, Felipe Adão, and Thiago Coimbra scored.
Flamengo 87: Ze Carlos (Fernando Henrique), Leandro (Obina), Aldair, Edinho (Julio Cesar) and Leonardo (Leonardo Moura); Andrade (Ibson), Ailton, Zinho (Junior) and Zico (Edu); Flavio (Djalminha), Renato Gaucho (Adriano). Zico's friends: Acácio (Cassio), Gabriel (Arce), Delacir (Felipe Adam), Gonçalves (Gamarra) and Mazinho (Rubens Junior); Nakata (Deco), Marcelinho Carioca (Donizete), Raí (Carlos Alberto), Edmundo (Thiago Coimbra), Amoroso (Roberto) and Claudio Adam (Vagner Love). Referee: Wagner Tardelli.
Fla opens safe and guarantees Rodrigo and Kleberson
Tardelli's father sparks optimism regarding the striker's arrival
Flamengo yesterday agreed to keep midfielder Kleberson for five years and defender Rodrigo for one year. Flamengo paid Besiktas of Turkey €1,2 million for Kleberson and Dynamo Kyiv of Ukraine €300 for Rodrigo. Another priority is midfielder Ibson, who is with Porto and has a contract until June.
"We paid Kleberson and Rodrigo today (yesterday)," announced vice president of football Kleber Leite. "They're both permanent Flamengo players."
Interestingly, the club is beginning to undergo a period of financial reorganization when the Labor Court begins to levy claims that, according to unofficial sources, total R$6 million. These labor debts will be executed as deductions from income.
Gavilán's case takes a turn and he agrees with the club
While battling in the labor court, the club continues to build its financial engineering to lure Ronaldo from Milan. They've also gotten closer to Diego Tardelli. On one side, president Márcio Braga has been talking to Juvenal Juvêncio, president of São Paulo. On the other, vice president of football Kleber Leite has initiated contact with the player's attorney, Giuliano Bertolucci, who is in Bahia.
"We don't have any news about Ronaldo because now the work is to implement the plan to secure partnerships that can guarantee the player's arrival. As for Tardelli, we're still in the early stages of negotiations. Since it's not easy to find people at this time of year, it's very likely that we'll make some progress early next year. But, judging by his father's reaction, who said he'd like to see his son play for Flamengo, I think we have a good chance of bringing him," said Kleber.
After being advised against signing by doctor José Luiz Runco, Paraguayan midfielder Gavilán agreed to sign a production-based contract, a so-called risk contract, as Flamengo can terminate him if dissatisfied. The player is said to be prone to knee osteoarthritis.
Sports Journal
Risky contract for Gavilán
Player fails medical exam, but signs one-year deal with Flamengo
NATHAN DE LIMA AND THIAGO BOKEL
Everything was set and planned: 27-year-old defensive midfielder Gavilán was scheduled to be presented yesterday as Flamengo's fifth signing for next year's Copa Libertadores. However, during the morning's medical examination, the player was ruled out by the medical department. However, just as the relationship between the club and the Paraguayan athlete was headed for an end, vice president of football Kleber Leite resolved the issue and presented the player with a risky offer, which he immediately accepted.
Even after the club's official website had already declared the player's signing canceled, Flamengo's board, represented by Isaías Tinoco and doctor José Luiz Runco, met with the player at the Windsor Hotel, in Barra, to finally decide whether or not the Paraguayan athlete would play for the club next season, even though he had a serious knee problem.
The club's proposal was simple. The player would earn a salary based on his productivity and included a clause in his contract that would allow Flamengo to terminate him at any time, without paying any penalty. Gavilán will be officially presented by Flamengo on the 3rd.
The clinical evaluation that nearly ruled the Paraguayan out of the club was merely a routine exam, performed every time a new player joins the club. Gavilán underwent standard radiological tests, which revealed some type of injury, but the club's medical department declined to provide an explanation. "It was simply a medical issue that I prefer not to discuss. It's a secret. The medical department presented the results to our board," said José Luiz Runco, the club's doctor.
Gavilán, who in addition to the Paraguayan national team and teams abroad has also played for Grêmio and Internacional, is Flamengo's fifth signing for the 2008 season, as the club has already brought in midfielder Marcinho, repatriated Kleberson and Jonatas.
Renato Abreu\ The number of defensive midfielders at the club is impressive, and now the board is turning all its attention to the attack and a left-footed midfielder, which could be Renato Abreu, who has stated several times that he is interested in returning to the club. Renato's contract with Al Nasr runs until May 2008, and to sign him, Flamengo would have to pay US$300.\
Love for the great idol
The eternal star Zico attracts fans from Flamengo, CFZ and even the Italian Udinese
Bernardo Peirão and Thiago Bokel
Love for an idol can transform the lives of many. As expected, Zico is among this select group of people who are role models for others. Living proof of this are three fans who, for different reasons, have always loved the Flamengo's number 10 and considered the Galinho their mentor. Marcos Machado, Renato Fornasiero, and Pedro Lins celebrated Flamengo's 1987-8 victory over Zico's Friends in 5, led by the Galinho, and expressed their love for the great Flamengo idol.
Journalist Marcos Machado stopped supporting Flamengo and started following CFZ. Renato Machado even participated in a march in 1983 to keep Udine, the hometown of Udinese, where Zico played at the time, in Italian territory, as the city was at risk of being annexed by Austria.
According to Renato, his love for Zico is so great that wherever Galinho goes, he follows him. "I've been to Japan, Italy, and Türkiye to look for him," he revealed.
Present at yesterday's party at Maracanã, lovers of Zico's great football went to the stadium to try to recapture and quench their longing for the artistic football and relive a little of the passion that Flamengo aroused.
On one side, the 1987 Fla team, on the other, the Amigos do Galinho team, with the presence of Gonçalves, Edmundo, Amoroso and others.
Early in the game, Zico's Friends opened the scoring with Amoroso. However, in the 16th minute, Zico provided a beautiful pass for Leonardo to equalize. Zico tormented the opposing defense. In the 20th minute, Leandro came off to a standing ovation, allowing Obina to come on. The striker began to create excellent plays with Zico, Renato Gaúcho, and Zinho. In the 40th minute, Zinho launched the Black Angel, who dribbled past goalkeeper Acácio and was awarded a penalty. Zico took the shot and scored.
After the goal, the host of the party was celebrated by everyone. But when it seemed that the first half would end with Fla's victory, Raí gave a beautiful pass to Amoroso who volleyed it and tied the game. Great goal!
The personalities present on the field were thrilled.
"It's a beautiful game, with beautiful plays," said master Zico.
Meanwhile, top scorer Obina praised his idol: "I'm fulfilling a dream of playing alongside Zico."
In the second half, the scoring spree was even greater. Thiago Coimbra followed his father's example and scored the third goal for Amigos do Zico, also from the penalty spot. But Leonardo Moura equalized for Flamengo in 87. Then, Zico received a beautiful pass from Obina and turned the game around with a stunning goal.
From then on, the Galinho team dominated the game. Adriano (2), Íbson, and Obina scored for the '87 Flamengo. Vágner Love and Felipe Adão scored. Zico's passionate fans witnessed a spectacle led by the eternal Flamengo number 10.
'Belly goal' still tugs at Flamengo's heartstrings
Some heroes of the 1987 Brazilian title were treated less than dignified by Flamengo fans yesterday at Maracanã. Aílton and Renato Gaúcho were booed by the Flamengo fans.
Flamengo fans still seem to have nightmares about the last game of the 1995 Campeonato Carioca. Aílton and Renato Gaúcho were the protagonists of the goal that gave Flu the title, over Flamengo, who were celebrating their centenary.
In the 41st minute of the second half, midfielder Aílton made a great play, dribbling past Charles Guerreiro twice and shooting. Renato Gaúcho placed his belly on the ball and scored the goal for the Tricolor, winning 3-2 and breaking a nine-year drought. The scoreboard showed Aílton as the scorer of the title-winning goal, but everyone knew it was Renato's.
Diego Tardelli wants to play with Ronaldo
Ronaldo's arrival at Gávea is complicated, but the Phenomenon can wear the Flamengo shirt
The long-awaited reinforcement for Flamengo's attack, who will pair with Souza next year, has yet to be finalized. The board is focused on two negotiation fronts, one that should be finalized in the coming days and another with no expected outcome: Ronaldo Fenômeno and Diego Tardelli. The latter admitted yesterday in an interview with "Rádio Brasil" that he is interested in playing for the Rubro-Negro, but also reiterated that his desire is to remain at São Paulo. The player also expressed excitement about playing alongside Ronaldo.
"My preference is to stay at São Paulo, but I don't know if Muricy Ramalho will take advantage of me. I see the negotiations with Flamengo as a great opportunity to showcase my work. I'm on vacation here in Santa Catarina, but I'm waiting. It's always good to breathe new air. I've matured a lot and have my head on straight now. Flamengo is a great team and will compete in next year's Copa Libertadores, just like São Paulo, and I would really like to participate in this competition and perhaps earn a spot on the Olympic team. It would be a dream to play alongside Ronaldo. I haven't reached an agreement with Flamengo yet, but that could be decided early next week," said forward Diego Tardelli.
The club's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, preferred to avoid discussing the progress of negotiations to sign Diego Tardelli, but São Paulo has already stated that it does not intend to loan the player. To circumvent this situation, Flamengo is seeking an investor who can finance this project. The plan is to announce the striker before the end of this year.
Regarding Ronaldo's situation, the Flamengo director will have a lot of work to do to convince the club's Board of Directors that bringing the player could be a profitable deal for Flamengo. Some members of the Board have already expressed opposition to the 2002 World Cup top scorer's arrival. "I won't talk about it now or later. The last thing we need to talk about right now is this negotiation. As soon as there's any news, everyone will know," promised Kleber Leite, who continues to adopt the policy of only disclosing details of the negotiations when players are 100% guaranteed at the club.
Zico shines in charity match
Ursula Nery
Players from today and yesterday took part in the party
In a game marked by a large number of goals, 13 in total, the Flamengo team, where players from various generations represented the red-black team, beat the team composed of Zico's Friends by 8 to 5. The goals were scored by Zico (2), Adriano (2), Leonardo, Léo Moura, Ibson and Obina for the Flamengo team. Amoroso (2), Thiago Coimbra, Felipe Adão and Vagner Love scored for the team of Galinho's friends.
The night's main attraction was the appearance of star player Zico, who received a standing ovation from the red-and-black fans who turned out in large numbers. More than 40 people paid for tickets to see the great stars of the past in action, with all proceeds going to charity.
The red-black commander
State champion, point guard Hélio trains hard to do well at the National Basketball Championship
Rafael Oliveira
Point guard Helio, with great speed, led Flamengo to win the 2007 State Championship
Flamengo's point guard Hélio has plenty of reasons to celebrate this holiday season. In the State Championship, he came off the bench to become the hero of the final. In the Liga das Américas, despite the team's early elimination, he was praised for his performances.
For 2008, he dreams big: he wants to be Brazilian champion with the red-black team.
"I believe Flamengo can be champions. Along with Brasília, our team is the best in the championship," said the player, who considers his current form one of the best of his career.
Having played basketball for 11 years, Hélio began his career in the youth ranks of Tijuca. In 2000, he had his first stint with Uberlândia (MG), where he debuted with the senior team. Before arriving at Flamengo, he played for Botafogo, Londrina (PR), Paulistano (SP), and, once again, the team from the Triângulo Mineiro region.
"2003 was a special year. I was at Londrina and played in my first National Championship. Our team was expected to finish last, but we surprised everyone and finished fifth. It was a great time, but nothing compared to today. I already knew that playing at Gávea was different, but I never imagined it would reach this level," he said.
Brilliant\ Hélio's achievement is made even greater by the fact that he shines in a position where competition is fierce. Besides him, the club boasts point guards Fred, the team's starter, and Duda, who came from Brasília, the current Brazilian champion. Not to mention winger Marcelinho, the group's biggest name, who also plays the ball carrier.\
"It's a very healthy competition. Everyone wants to play. Therefore, we are always looking to improve technically."
A Flamengo fan, the athlete says he's pleased to excel at his beloved club, but makes it clear that his ambitions go further. "I'd love to play abroad one day and, who knows, wear the national team jersey."
Luiz Augusto Veloso
Planet Sport
The year in review
Luiz Augusto Veloso laveloso@jsports.com.br
The year draws to a close without the sport being in full swing. All the important events have already happened: the titles, the records, the great victories, the historic defeats. In recent days, the headlines have focused on transfer speculation, a time when the media exposes itself, revealing more clearly the responsibility with which it approaches the news or its perspective. 2007 was São Paulo's year, due to the manner in which it won the Brazilian championship. But, above all, it was the year of Corinthians' debacle, with its irretrievable relegation to the second division of Brazilian football. It was also the year Brazil proved its capacity to organize decent world-class events like the Rio Pan American Games.
For Rio's soccer scene, there's no denying that this year was a red-and-black one. With the Rio title in the first half of the year and the irresistible and consecrating run in the Brazilian Championship, which put them back in the Copa Libertadores alongside Fluminense with their first-ever Copa do Brasil.
Among the episodes to be lamented are the resignation of the president of Corinthians and the discrediting, inexplicable and pathetic soap opera of the doping of swimmer Rebeca Gusmão.
\ Flamengo's Ronaldo signing may be as viable as Romário's signing in 1995. But, from what has emerged so far, it is, for now, an unbelievable marketing ploy with international reach. I want to emphasize this even now.\
A meeting is likely in the coming days between the club's vice president, Kleber Leite, and Milan's vice president, Adriano Galliani, who has adopted an apartment in Leblon as his second home. Negotiations could then begin.
Vasco is taking seriously its participation in the January 2008 international quadrangular in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, against Hamburg, the local national team, and the Chinese national team. The club is producing a magazine with an English version especially for this event to tell its story.
O Dia
The new king of football
The fans go wild, idolize Galinho and sing: “Yeah... Zico is better than Pelé”
Rio - "Yeah... Zico is better than Pelé!" King, king, king... Zico is our king!" The shouts that echoed from the stands of the Maracanã by the audience of more than 35 thousand people who watched the Galinho de Quintino show on the field, at the All-Star Games, last night, summed up well the emotion of the red-black nation in seeing the greatest star in the history of Flamengo show all his art with the ball at his feet.
Delightful passes, exciting plays and, of course, two goals, one spectacular in which he left the defender sitting, and one from the penalty spot, where he showed all his technique to displace the opposing goalkeeper, were some of the moves by the eternal number 10 of Gávea, which made the party even more nostalgic.
Even one of the stars and darling of the Flamengo squad, striker Obina, was thrilled with the chance to play alongside Flamengo's eternal idol. "I managed to make a pass and even won the penalty for Zico to score," said Obina, who also found the net after replacing former full-back Leandro. He looked fatter than his old idol. Zico reciprocated the affection and praised his Flamengo favorite. "It was great playing one-twos with him. I miss playing at the Maracanã."
The score? It was 8-5 to Flamengo, but it mattered little to the fans, who, in addition to Zico, were able to enjoy the performances of several current world soccer stars, such as Adriano, Deco, Carlos Alberto, Edmundo, Amoroso, and the Japanese Nakata, among others. Not to mention old idols from the past, such as Leonardo, Renato Gaúcho, Júnior, Edinho, Raí, and Aldair.
Renato 'hits on' Ana Paula
Besides the art of soccer and Zico's performance, the All-Star Game was marked by intriguing moments and plenty of fangirling among the idols. Before the match, coach Renato Gaúcho, known for his flirtatious and handsome looks, wasted no time in immediately hitting on the lineswoman, the muse Ana Paula Oliveira, who looked stunning on the sidelines. The coach even flirted with her and even took a photo with the assistant referee.
But even with all her splendor, Ana Paula couldn't escape the boos and hostility of the fans, calling questionable offside calls for Flamengo, and especially for Zico. Former Milan player and director Leonardo, who scored a goal after a beautiful pass from Galinho, praised the spirit of the celebration and the Flamengo fans, who once again put on a show in the stands, just like in the Brasileirão, and cheered for their future idol Ronaldo. But the former full-back took the cake from the red-and-black fan, who still dreams of having the Phenomenon at Flamengo as early as the 2008 State Championship. "He won't leave Milan. But one day Ronaldo will play for Flamengo," said Leonardo.
Fla: Turnaround in the Gavilán case
The defensive midfielder is cut in the morning. At night, he agrees to a risk contract and stays
Rio - Yesterday, hours before being presented as a Flamengo signing, Gavilán was ruled out by the club's medical department. That night, the situation changed. The player agreed to a risk-free contract and will remain at Gávea for the 2008 season. The Paraguayan midfielder will report to the club on January 3rd. The agreement stipulates that the contract will be suspended at any time if the player presents a medical problem.
José Luiz Runco, responsible for the Paraguayan's clinical evaluation and radiological exams, claimed medical secrecy to avoid commenting on the player's veto. Doctor Bruno Bolzoni, who worked with the midfielder during the season at Grêmio, said he had no serious injuries that would justify such a veto.
Bolzoni said he was surprised by the veto. "He performed normally and only had minor injuries, nothing serious. I was surprised, and I think Flamengo's doctors should clarify what happened," the Grêmio doctor said in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
Unlike other cases of players ruled out by the medical department due to injury problems, in which the results of the report are always released, Runco did not want to reveal what the diagnosis would have been.
Flamengo's doctor simply said he preferred not to comment, as it's a medical secret. He communicated the problem and advised against signing the player. At Gávea, rumors are that Gavilán has a serious problem in his right knee.
Milan frames Ronaldo
Milan officials are demanding that Ronaldo return to Italy on January 3rd, but Kléber Leite continues to dream of signing the Phenomenon. In addition to the director, Diego Tardelli, who has been approached by the Rubro-Negro but has yet to reach an agreement, is already talking about a possible partnership with the player.
"It's a dream to play alongside Ronaldo. I haven't signed a contract with Flamengo yet, but that could be decided early next week. It's always good to breathe new air. Flamengo is a great team in Brazilian football," said Diego Tardelli.
But the dream must be postponed. Ronaldo, who will spend New Year's in Angra dos Reis, received a letter from Milan officials demanding that he return on the 3rd. The striker has been undergoing physical therapy twice a day to recover from a calf strain.
PREJUDICE
Even with the order from Italy, Kléber Leite continues working to move the negotiations forward. If he leaves Milan, Ronaldo would automatically lose two multi-million dollar contracts, with Audi and Tim, as stipulated in his contract. The forecast is that, without an agreement with Flamengo, the "Phenomenon" will return to Italy on the 2nd and negotiate his move to Flamengo mid-year.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo decides to take a risk and signs Gavilán again
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After announcing the signing of Paraguayan midfielder Gavilán and giving up on taking him to Gávea after completing routine medical exams, Flamengo's management changed its mind again and decided to take a risk. Late Thursday night, after a meeting held at the Windson hotel between the club's doctor, José Luiz Runco, supervisor Isaías Tinoco, Gavilán and his agent, Régis Marques, it was agreed that the player would remain with the red-black club for a period of one year.
The Paraguayan's contract, however, will be unconventional. Gavilán will remain at Gávea on a risky contract, which can be terminated at any time without cost to the club. With the agreement, Gavilán will be officially presented by Flamengo at the full squad's reunion on January 3rd.
The arrival of Gavilán marks Flamengo's fifth signing for 2008. Before the Paraguayan, the Gávea club had already signed midfielders Kléberson, formerly of Besikitas, and Jônatas, formerly of Espanyol, defender Rodrigo, formerly of Dynamo Kyiv, and midfielder Marcinho, formerly of Atlético-MG.
Led by Zico and Adriano, Fla 87 thrashes 'Amigos do Zico'
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - In a friendly match organized by Zico this Thursday at the Maracanã, the team that represented Flamengo, the 1987 Brazilian champions, needed help from active players in the second half to defeat 8-5 a team made up of veterans and players still in their careers, known as "Zico's Friends." Flamengo's fans scored twice each from Zico and Adriano, São Paulo's new striker. The pace of the game was typical of celebratory matches, and the official attendance was just over 35, despite over 43 tickets being sold. And those who attended the Maracanã were able to witness a Flamengo side that was only missing striker Bebeto and right-back Jorginho, repeating the team that triumphed 20 years ago.
However, it was Amigos do Zico who opened the scoring, courtesy of a play by two players who haven't yet retired from the field. In the fifth minute, Amoroso played a one-two with Marcelinho Carioca and finished past goalkeeper Zé Carlos.
In the 16th minute, however, the red-and-black "old guard" came through to equalize. Adílio made a beautiful play and found Zico in the penalty area. The number 10 provided a beautiful pass to Leonardo, who was free, who slotted the ball into the left corner of Acácio's net and tied the friendly.
The game continued at a slower pace, with a few missed chances. The net only shook again in the 40th minute, when Zinho passed to Obina, who replaced the former defender/fullback for Flamengo in '87. The forward cut past Acácio and was brought down by the goalkeeper. The penalty was well converted by Zico, the man who had the party going.
Four minutes later, a stunning goal from Amoroso leveled the score. Raí delivered a superb cross from the right, and the former Corinthians and São Paulo striker followed with a beautiful volley.
After halftime, many active players were given chances. And in the seventh minute, Zico's Friends turned the game around with a penalty awarded to the "panther" Donizete. While Zico had broken the tie with a penalty kick in the first half, this time his son, Thiago Coimbra, found the net.
From then on, Flamengo, who already had Adriano, São Paulo's new signing, took off. In the 14th minute, the equalizer came, starting with a good play by Imperador, who cleared the markers and found Ibson. Despite being down, the midfielder recovered and passed to Obina. In an attempt to pass back to his Flamengo teammate, the striker found the ball back at his feet after a defensive rebound and crossed perfectly for another current Flamengo player: right-back Leonardo Moura.
Two minutes later, Zico leveled the score with style. The defense cleared a cross, leaving the ball at Obina's feet. The center forward passed it to the number 10, who overcame his marker inside the six-yard box and fired the ball into the back of the net with the wrong foot.
After that, Adriano missed two great chances alone, facing the goalkeeper. But he redeemed himself in the 21st minute, when he left Ibson free to deceive Cássio and increase the score. In the 23rd minute, it was Obina's turn to score, with a precise header after a good cross from former Flamengo left-back Júlio César.
In the 29th minute, the red-and-blacks were no longer without Zico, replaced by his brother Edu. However, they had Adraino. The Emperor scored his first goal of the duel with his left foot thanks to Ibson, who appeared on the right and found the Emperor in the six-yard box.
A minute later, Felipe Adão capitalized on a Flamengo defense slip and beat Fernando Henrique to reduce the deficit. And in the 36th minute, Vagner Love narrowed the gap with a beautiful goal: he received the ball, left his marker on the ground, and slotted it into the corner.
In the 43rd minute, however, Adriano scored his second goal, again with his left foot, which he received unmarked from Leonardo Moura and sealed the rout.
Tardelli dreams of partnering with Ronaldo at Gávea\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Despite having made it clear that his priority for 2008 is to remain at São Paulo and compete in the Copa Libertadores da América for the Morumbi club, striker Diego Tardelli is already showing signs of being attracted by the possibility of competing in the continental tournament for another major Brazilian club: Flamengo.\ In an interview with Rádio Brasil, the player, who is spending his vacation in Santa Catarina, stated that it would be a great honor to wear the red-and-black shirt and revealed a dream: to form a partnership with Ronaldo 'Fenômeno', another striker the Cariocas are targeting for next season.\
"It's a dream I've had since I was little (playing with Ronaldo). It's a dream I had at São Paulo, to make it to the Brazilian national team and play alongside him. Playing with Ronaldo would be a great honor. And I'm sure that at Flamengo I can be happy and rediscover the style of football I played a year and a half, two years ago," he projected.
The reputation for undisciplinedness he carries on his resume won't be a problem if Flamengo invests in him, the center forward stated. "Those little problems I had are in the past, and I don't like to talk about them. I'm married, with a beautiful eight-month-old daughter. I went to Europe, gained football experience and also cultural experience," concluded the athlete, who had a brief stint with PSV in the Netherlands.
PeléNet
Zico says that, before negotiating, Ronaldo needs to take care of his health
From UOL Esporte\ In São Paulo\
Coveted by Flamengo for the 2008 season, striker Ronaldo needs, before anything else, to fully recover. This is the opinion of Zico, the greatest idol in the club's history and currently the coach of Fenerbahce in Turkey.
"I think Ronaldo's concern today is taking care of his health. He has to recover well. Wherever he is, he has to be well. Everyone will demand the Ronaldo we're used to seeing," the former player said this Thursday, in an interview with "Sportv".
"He needs to be a professional again, and to do that, he has to dedicate himself a lot. In today's football, if you're not at your best, everyone will write you off," he said.
Ronaldo has been plagued by injuries since arriving at Milan in early 2007. His latest injury was a calf injury. He hasn't recovered yet, so he was cut from the squad that won the FIFA Club World Cup this month.
Recovering in Brazil, the striker has become Flamengo's "dream player." The club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, held a press conference this Wednesday expressing his desire to sign the player. Milan, however, has already stated on its official website that it has no interest in negotiating for the player.
For Zico, before any negotiations, Ronaldo must be 100%. "When you're in your 30s, you have to be careful. You can't train at the same intensity every day, for example. And then there's weight. If your ideal weight is 70 kilos, you have to be at 68, 69 to play."
Besides Flamengo, another club reportedly interested in Ronaldo is Fenerbahce, led by Zico. The coach did not comment on a possible signing of the striker.
After vetoing, Flamengo decides to hire midfielder Gavilán
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo was the subject of considerable confusion this Thursday. Late in the morning, before Gavilán's official presentation, the Flamengo board announced that the midfielder would not be signed because he failed his medical.
Defensive midfielder Gavilán signs risk contract with Flamengo for 2008
However, everything changed. Late that night, Flamengo decided to sign the Paraguayan on a risky contract. The player signed with the club for one year, but the club can terminate his contract if necessary. Gavilán will be presented on January 3rd.
The decision was made after a meeting, at a hotel in Barra da Tijuca, West Zone of the city of Rio de Janeiro, between Flamengo doctor José Luís Runco, the player himself and the club's football supervisor, Isaias Tinoco.
Diego Antonio Gavilán Zarate is 27 years old. Born in Asunción on March 1, 1980, he was revealed by Cerro Porteño-PAR and also played for Newcastle-ING, Tecos-MEX, Internacional, Newell's Old Boys-ARG and was currently at Grêmio.
The player was champion of the Clausura Tournament of the Paraguayan Championship in 1998 and 99 and four-time champion of Rio Grande do Sul, in 2003, 2004 and 2005, with Internacional, and in 2007, with Grêmio. He played 29 times for his country's national team.
With the confirmation of Gavilán, Flamengo confirmed the fifth reinforcement for 2008. Before, Rubro-Negro had already agreed with the following players: the midfielders Kleberson, ex-Besikitas-TUR, and Jônatas, ex-Espanyol-ESP, the defender Rodrigo, ex-Dínamo de Kiev-UCR, and the midfielder Marcinho, ex-Atlético-MG.
At the football festival, Flamengo of 1987 surpasses Zico's Friends
Raphael Raposo\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Maracanã, a traditional venue for Brazilian and international soccer, is a part of Rio de Janeiro's and Brazil's history. This Thursday, Mário Filho Stadium gained another chapter with the "Game of the Stars," hosted by Zico, a lifelong Flamengo idol and current coach of Fernebache in Turkey. All proceeds will go to charity.
Organizer of the charity party at Maracanã, Zico prepares a right-hand kick
At the big party, with an audience of 35.510 fans, Flamengo from 1987, celebrating 20 years of winning the Brazilian championship for the fourth time, defeated Amigos do Zico, 8 to 5.
Before the match, there was much joy. But not for everyone. Aílton and Renato Gaúcho, champions in 1987, ended up being booed by the fans. After all, both were also important in Fluminense's 1995 state title victory against Flamengo.
In addition to the two red-blacks, the striker Edmundo and former player Roberto Dinamite, great idols of Vasco, Flamengo's main rival, were left.
Once the ball was rolling, everything was forgotten. In the fifth minute, Amoroso scored the goal for Zico's Friends. In the 16th minute, after a pass from Quintino's Galinho, Leonardo leveled the score.
Four minutes later, Leandro came off, making way for Obina. Zico provided several passes to the club's favorite, but the tiebreaker came in the 41st minute, after Zinho passed the ball to the striker himself, who was brought down inside the box. The penalty was converted by the "party leader."
But in the end, in the 44th minute, Raí received the ball on the left and crossed to Amoroso. The striker, with a first touch, placed the ball into the corner of Zé Carlos's net, but he was helpless.
For the second half, the Amigos de Zico team made a complete change. In the 1987 Flamengo squad, only Zico, Aílton, and Aldair remained. With so many young players on the field, the better for Flamengo.
Thiago Coimbra, Zico's son, also scored the third for Amigos, but Flamengo easily reached the sixth goal, through Leonardo Moura, Zico, Ibson and Obina, respectively.
In the 28th minute, Zico came off and was replaced by his brother Edu Coimbra. The eternal Flamengo idol received a standing ovation. "Mission accomplished with a wonderful celebration. It was worth everything, and I can only thank you," celebrated the Galinho de Quintino.
Adriano, now with São Paulo but a product of Flamengo's youth academy, scored the seventh. Zico's Friends were looking to make up for the deficit and pulled one back with Felipe Adão and Vágner Love.
Finally, in the 43rd minute, Adriano, after a one-two with Júnior and Leonardo Moura, scored the eighth goal and sealed the final score for the "Game of Stars." The celebration was complete.
FLAMENGO 1987\ Ze Carlos (Fernando Henrique); Leandro (Obina), Edinho (Junior), Aldair and Leonardo (Leonardo Moura); Andrade (Ibson), Ailton, Zinho (Djalminha) and Zico (Edu Coimbra); Renato Gaucho (Adriano) and Flavio (Julius Caesar Uri Geller).\ Coach: Carlinhos\
ZICO'S FRIENDS\ Acácio (Cassio); Gabriel (Arce), Gonçalves (Gamarra), Delacir (Felipe Adam) and Mazinho (Rubens Junior); Nakata (Deco), Marcelinho Carioca (Carlos Alberto) and Raí (Thiago Coimbra); Claudio Adam (Roberto Dinamite), Edmundo (Donizete) and Amoroso (Vagner Love).\ Coach: Vanderlei Luxemburgo\
Date: 27/12/2007 (Thursday)\ Location: Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro (RJ)\ Referee: Wagner Tardelli (RJ)\ Assistant Referees: Ana Paula Oliveira (SP) and Maria Elisa (SP)\ Attendance: 35.510 (present)\ Goals: Amoroso, in the 5th minute; Leonardo, in the 16th minute; Zico, in the 41st minute; and Amoroso, in the 44th minute of the first half. Thiago Coimbra, in the 7th minute; Leonardo Moura, in the 14th minute; Zico, in the 16th minute; Ibson, in the 21st minute; Obina, in the 23rd minute; Adriano, in the 29th minute; Felipe Adão, in the 30th minute; Vágner Love, in the 36th minute; and Adriano, in the 43rd minute of the second half.\
BalloonSport
Nation on a night of celebration and nostalgia
Fans praise their idol Zico, but don't forget their current favorites: Obina and Ronaldo
Fred Huber
Zico returns the fans' affection and sends kisses at the All-Star Game
Flamengo fans, who shone brightly during this year's Brazilian Championship, had a grand farewell to 2007 this Thursday at the Maracanã stadium, at the "Game of the Stars." The Flamengo fans were able to reminisce about past idols like Zico and Junior, as well as further celebrate current players like Ibson, Obina, and Leonardo Moura.
When the eternal idol Zico stepped onto the Maracanã pitch again, the stands went wild and revived an old chant: "Hey, hey, hey, Zico is our king!" Flamengo fans made it clear that, for them, there is no one comparable to the rooster: "Yes, Zico is better than Pelé."
But it wasn't just a day to celebrate past stars. The possibility of Flamengo signing striker Ronaldo stirred the hearts of Flamengo fans, who chanted "Ronaldo is coming, the beast is going to get him." The one who suffered was former Flamengo player Adriano, who signed with São Paulo. Whenever the Emperor made a mistake, the fans chanted, "Ronaldo, Ronaldo!"
If Adriano had no peace, Vasco's idols, Edmundo and Roberto Dinamite, had it even harder. With every touch of the ball, a loud boo erupted.
Zico puts on a show at the All-Star Game
Galinho scores twice and helps Fla win matches against his friends
Marcio Iannacca
Anyone who saw the 1987 Flamengo take the field back then has only fond memories of the team that won the Copa União title that year. Those who missed it because they were too young or lacked the opportunity had the chance to witness the reunion of the team's key players from the 80s at the All-Star Game, held this Thursday at the Maracanã Stadium. Organized by Zico, Flamengo's biggest fan favorite, the match ended 8-5, and could have been more (watch the goals in the accompanying video).
On the field, a constellation of stars from past and present. The Flamengo team included Zico, Andrade, Zinho, Leonardo, and Renato Gaúcho. To give you an idea, on Flamengo's bench, the emperor Adriano, recently signed by São Paulo for the 2008 season, was a substitute. On the other side, on the team of Galinho's friends, there were big names like the Japanese Nakata, Edmundo, Amoroso, and Gabriel.
Zico leaves his. Andrade disconcerts Edmundo
Zico, marked by Raí, left his mark on the All-Star Game at the Maracanã
The first half was eventful. Zico's friends' team started better and opened the scoring after just five minutes with a goal from Amoroso. With the goal, the 1987 Flamengo team woke up and went on the attack. Aílton had a chance to equalize, but Leonardo tied the game in the 16th minute. It didn't take long for coach Carlinhos to take off a tired Leandro and bring on Obina, the current favorite of the red-and-blacks.
And it was Obina who provided the first great joy of the game. The Bahian was brought down in the box, a penalty for Flamengo in '87. Zico collected the ball like in the old days and didn't disappoint the Flamengo fans: 2-1. Just like in the golden age, the ball went one way, the goalkeeper the other. Acácio wasn't even in the picture. Soon after, Andrade was the protagonist of one of the game's most beautiful plays. Joel Santana's current assistant at Flamengo, performed a disconcerting dribble past Edmundo and left for the game. The Maracanã fans went wild.
Another notable character in the first half was lineswoman Ana Paula Oliveira. She called two offside calls against Zico's team and ended up being heckled by the fans. She turned to the fans and signaled that she "wanted more."
Idols of the present and the past
In the second half, the changes made Flamengo stronger and more energetic. Ibson, Leonardo Moura, Djalminha, Júnior, Júlio César, and Adriano came on. Even so, the Flamengo team still held the lead. Thiago Coimbra converted a penalty and scored. However, from that point on, it was a spectacular display of the Gávea team's past and present idols.
The celebration began with Leonardo Moura, who equalized for Flamengo in the 13th minute. Four minutes later, Zico received a pass from Obina, beat Gamarra, and slotted it past Cássio, to the delight of the Flamengo fans, who erupted in the stands. The fans sang "Theme of Victory" and "Sorte Grande" by Ivete Sangalo, in the red-and-black version.
Check out a photo gallery of the game
And it continued... Ibson, Obina, and Adriano scored their goals and extended the lead. Zico's friends included Vágner Love, a CSKA and Brazilian national team striker, and Carlos Alberto, but the two couldn't contain Zico & Co.'s Flamengo. In the end, the Flamengo fan who left home was pleased with what he saw, reminisced about the past, and envisioned a future of many achievements in 2008.
Deco overcomes injury to play at Maraca
Despite being injured, Barcelona midfielder insists on stepping into the stadium for the first time
Gustavo Rotstein
Brazilian by birth, Deco left the country at 18 to shine in Portugal. That's why it was only this Thursday that he experienced the sensation of stepping onto the Maracanã pitch for the first time. The Portuguese national team and Barcelona midfielder overcame a muscle problem.
All for the desire to make a dream come true, participating in the 'Game of the Stars', a charity event organized by Zico.
"I have an adductor problem, but I made sure to get in for a bit. I'm a bit greedy at times like these. I couldn't miss the opportunity to fulfill my dream and help the cause. I've been to Maracanã a few times, but only to watch the games. But getting on the field is unlike anything else," he explains.
Playing at the Maracanã was just one of his dreams come true. Being on the same pitch as Zico was also something that made Deco especially happy.
"He was the idol of my generation. I've been following Zico since I was a kid. There are also other players here I admire greatly, like Edmundo," says the midfielder.
Adriano bothered by paparazzi
Player says he will prepare to be at his best at the start of the 2008 competitions
Marcio Iannacca
One of the standout performers of the All-Star Game, organized by Zico, striker Adriano stated on the Maracanã pitch that he feels uncomfortable with all the fuss surrounding his vacation in Rio de Janeiro (watch one of the Emperor's goals). For the player, the photographers are not respecting his private life.
"I just went to the Jota Quest show. Of course, it's uncomfortable to see those photos. I'm on vacation. The key is to be aware of what you're doing. Life goes on, and we have to get our heads together," says Adriano.
Having scored two goals in the All-Star Game, Adriano stated that he has already adapted to São Paulo's style of work. The Emperor stated that he will be prepared to start the season well.
"I want to overcome the bad things I've experienced this year. Being at São Paulo is an added motivation, and it's helped me a lot in this new beginning. I'm with the group and I hope to showcase my football skills at São Paulo," says the striker.
The player was excited to participate in the All-Star Game and play alongside Zico.
"It's a pleasure to be at Maracanã and play alongside Zico. It's exciting, and I'm very happy to be back playing Brazilian football," the player said.
Obina: 'I don't need anything else'
Striker says he is fulfilled by playing alongside Zico in a festive match at Maracanã
Gustavo Rotstein
Even when Flamengo's historic heroes are on the field, Obina is capable of stirring up excitement among the fans. The striker, who came on in the first half of the 'All-Star Game' in place of Leandro, said he was fulfilled by playing alongside Zico. He even provided the assist for the Galinho's second goal of the match (watch the video).
"After winning the penalty and handing the ball to Zico to take, I don't need anything else. That was enough to satisfy me. It's an honor to play in a game like this," says the striker.
In the second half, playing alongside Adriano, Obina once again made the Maracanã tremble, scoring one of the goals for the 1987 Flamengo team. As you can see, there was no lack of chemistry with Zico.
Fla rethinks and confirms Gavilán
Midfielder will sign a one-year risk contract with the red-black club
Gavilán has Libertadores experience and faced Boca Jrs this year in the final
After failing Flamengo's medical, Gavilán proposed a risky contract with the club, and it worked. In a meeting tonight between supervisor Isaías Tinoco, club doctor José Luís Runco, the athlete himself, and his agent, Regis Marques, the deal was confirmed, and the midfielder will strengthen the team for next season, according to the club's press office.
The Paraguayan will travel to Gávea to sign a one-year contract with the Rubro-Negro, but the club can terminate it at any time it deems necessary. However, his official presentation will not be until January 3rd, when the squad returns to training.
Fla loses R$6 million in court
In the coming days, losses are expected to increase due to Paraguayan Gamarra
Eduardo Peixoto
Debt will grow further because of Paraguayan defender Gamarra
Flamengo dreams—and has the means—to sign Ronaldo. But past mismanagement continues to cause headaches. Over the past ten days, the club has suffered significant defeats in labor court.
In just four lawsuits, the losses amount to R$6 million. All of this relates to debts owed to former players and a former coach. The first creditor is Lê, scorer of the winning goal in the 1999 Mercosur Cup. The amount stipulated is R$2,9 million.
Also on the list are Júnior Baiano (R$1,1 million), Beto (R$1 million), and Evaristo de Macedo (R$1 million). The execution of each of their debts will be handled through Flamengo's agreement with the Regional Labor Court (TRT), which provides for a 15% discount on all club revenue.
And there's more...
The legal defeats will gain another significant component in the coming weeks. The legal department knows that defender Gamarra will win a labor lawsuit worth R$2,5 million for late wages.
This lawsuit is separate from the one the defender, along with Atlético de Madrid (ESP), is pursuing in the civil sphere. In that case, Flamengo was ordered to pay R$5,5 million, but managed to appeal and, for now, escaped the massive loss.
Renato and Aílton are booed at Maraca
Flamengo fans won't forget Fluminense's 1995 title, decided by the two
Gustavo Rotstein
Even euphoric about celebrating the 20th anniversary of the 1987 Brazilian title, Flamengo fans showed that not all four-time champions are heroes. When their names were announced on the Maracanã scoreboard before the All-Star Game, Aílton and Renato Gaúcho (watch the former player's comments before kickoff) were booed by the Flamengo fans.
With this, Flamengo fans showed that they still haven't recovered from winning the 1995 Campeonato Carioca. Aílton and Renato Gaúcho were the protagonists of the goal that gave the cup to Fluminense, in the final against Rubro-Negro, who were celebrating their centenary.
In the 41st minute of the second half, Aílton made a great play and shot. Renato Gaúcho placed his belly on the ball and scored the Tricolor's goal, winning 3-2 and breaking a nine-year drought.
Zico will release a DVD with great goals
In an interview, Galinho announces the project will be carried out in 2008
Attention, collectors! The most beautiful goals from the career of Flamengo's greatest idol and one of the greatest stars of Brazilian football are coming to DVD. This Thursday, in an interview with the program "Redação SporTV," Zico announced that he will fulfill a long-held dream in 2008. (Watch the video below!)
"I'm going to give you a little scoop here. Next year, I'm going to release a DVD with my most beautiful goals. I wanted to release it in March, but since I won't be here in Brazil, it should come out in July," he says.
According to the coach of Fenerbahçe, from Türkiye, the project is dedicated to someone very special.
- It will be a tribute to the grandson who will be born in April - he says
Throw
Stars put on a show at Maraca
A night of spectacular football and goals at a Maracanã stadium to remember. Zico's Flamengo beats Zico's Friends: 8-5
Zico made beautiful passes and left his mark, twice (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)
Cassius Leitão IN RIO\ Miguel Yen IN RIO\
Zico celebrated at the All-Star Game he organized. This Thursday, at a Maracanã stadium that drew a large crowd (over 35), the Galinho scored two goals and led a Flamengo team—featuring former players like Adriano, São Paulo's new signing—to an 8-5 victory over Zico's Friends.
The game was marked by nostalgia, with several idols from the past and present in attendance. And since Zico was having an inspired night, the fans had nothing to complain about. He was the one who provided the assist for Flamengo's first goal (by Leonardo).
Zico ended up scoring the second (from the penalty spot) and the fourth (a stunning goal: he received the ball from Obina, dribbled past a defender, and with a body move, left Cássio on the ground before tapping it in). Then, players currently playing for Rubro-Negro extended their lead: Léo Moura, Ibson, and Obina.
The star of the show finally left in the 28th minute of the second half, with the score at 6-3, to chants of "Hey, hey, Zico is our king." Then it was Adriano's turn to shine. The Flamengo forward took the first shot and scored the seventh goal for Flamengo. But the fans couldn't forgive him for signing with São Paulo. They booed the Emperor and chanted Ronaldo Fenômeno.
Two others suffered at the hands of the fans. First was Ana Paula Oliveira. The lineswoman was booed and sexually charged. But she didn't lose her cool: with her hands, she urged the crowd to keep chanting her name and other chants.
The second was Roberto Dinamite. Vasco's biggest idol, he received the best chant of the night: "WTF... Dinamite looks like Clodovil."
Players from Flamengo's current squad helped the 1987 team emerge victorious. Leonardo Moura, Ibson, and Obina each scored once. For Amigos de Zico, goals were scored by Amoroso (twice), Thiago Coimbra, Felipe Adão, and Vágner Love.
Márcio Braga will negotiate for Diego Tardelli
The presidents of Flamengo and São Paulo have a good relationship.
Diego Tardelli has already signed with Flamengo, all that's left is for São Paulo to release him (Credit: Tom Dib)
Cassius Leitao RIO DE JANEIRO\ Hugo Perruso RIO DE JANEIRO\
With their interest in Diego Tardelli confirmed, Flamengo now has to try to reach an agreement with São Paulo. The São Paulo club, which owns the striker's economic rights, only wants to release him if Flamengo pays him upfront. But Flamengo has already mobilized to try to sign him another way and believes it can.
Although he hasn't actively participated in the club's signings, Marcio Braga may be able to help this time around. According to vice president of football Kléber Leite, the Flamengo president will be on the field and will also be involved in negotiations to try to sign the striker.
Marcio Braga will speak with São Paulo president Juvenal Juvêncio and try to convince him to facilitate the sale to Flamengo, as the club is unable to pay cash for the striker.
– Marcio Braga is a friend of the president of São Paulo and this could help us change São Paulo's initial offer for the striker - said Kléber Leite.
While waiting for São Paulo, Kléber believes negotiations are already well underway with Diego Tardelli and his agent, Giuliano Bertolucci. A deal between the parties is considered a given. The manager spoke with the agent, who is now back in Brazil, and is confident the signing will be a happy ending.
One reason for this confidence is the striker's own interest, who expressed enthusiasm for joining Flamengo and competing in the Copa Libertadores. He reportedly even turned down an offer from Atlético Mineiro.
"I spoke with his agent. And there is, indeed, a possibility of him playing here. We're already well advanced, and the player wants to come to Flamengo. That helps a lot," Kléber stated.
Diego Tardelli's contract with São Paulo runs until the end of 2008 and is not in coach Muricy Ramalho's plans. The striker has been loaned out three times since his debut at the São Paulo club and has seen little use this year.
With a reputation for being a problematic player, Diego Tardelli doesn't worry Kléber Leite, who believes that the striker, because he is getting married, won't cause any problems.
Vágner Love hopes to play for Fla soon
Striker believes he will come to Rubro-Negro before 2010
Cassius Leitão IN RIO
A self-confessed Flamengo fan, Vágner Love, a forward for the Brazilian national team, reiterated his desire to play for his beloved club. What's more, he guarantees that this desire may be fulfilled sooner than many might imagine.
With a contract with CSKA, Russia, until 2010, the Artilheiro do Amor admits he doesn't want to wait that long to realize his childhood dream.
"It's magical to see the Maracanã with these fans. I hope to feel this in my favor as soon as possible. I have a three-year contract in Russia, but I don't intend to wait that long to play for Flamengo," he said.
Vágner Love, who scored the last goal for Zico's Friends, paid tribute to Flamengo fans by creating a symbol characteristic of one of Flamengo's fan factions. This confirms his talent.
Gavilán can still play for Flamengo
The decision is in the hands of Rubro-Negro's doctor, José Luís Runco, and should be released this Thursday\ LANCEPRESS!\
Paraguayan midfielder Gavilán's dream of playing for Flamengo remains alive. The club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, announced this Thursday that the player would accept a risky contract, but that the final decision would be made by the Rio de Janeiro club and Brazilian national team doctor, José Luis Runco. The transfer, announced last week, was canceled after Gavilán failed his medical.
"Defensive midfielder Gavilán agrees to a risky contract, and that possibility exists. I'm waiting for Runco's response to decide whether to sign him," said Kléber Leite.
The Gávea club's director declined to provide further details about the impasse. Runco's response is expected later this Thursday.