The Globe
Fla: Roger doesn't go to the field and frustrates Joel's plans
Supporter, absent from decisive collective, would be an asset tomorrow
Coach Joel Santana already knew he wouldn't be able to field Ibson tomorrow against Atlético-MG at Maracanã. The midfielder participated in 20 minutes of yesterday afternoon's training session, but he's not in the squad for the match—his return is scheduled for the match against São Paulo. Joel also received confirmation that he won't be able to count on Roger. Although the MRI he underwent the day before yesterday revealed no injury to the back of his left thigh, Roger didn't take the field. He did some weight training and ended up frustrating Joel's plans.
"The idea was to take him to the game and use him according to our needs. Suddenly, he got injured..." said Joel Santana.
Marcelinho's red and black house
A three-time Pan American champion with the Brazilian national team, Marcelinho has begun to realize his dream of playing for Flamengo, his childhood team, where he started at age 10. Yesterday, he was officially presented by Flamengo.
Marcelinho, formerly of Zalgiris Kaunas, Lithuania, signed until December 2009. The winger is expected to debut on the 7th, perhaps at Maracanãzinho, with Fluminense, of which his father, Renê Machado, is a director.
"It's going to be the whole family (him, his brother Duda, also a Flamengo player, and his other brother, Ricardo, a physiotherapist for the club) against Mr. Renê. We'll see who wins," laughed Marcelinho, joking with his father, who was in the Gávea auditorium.
State and national champion for the now defunct Telemar/Rio de Janeiro, in 2004/2005, Marcelinho is a symbol of the search for the national title that Flamengo still does not have:
- For Flamengo, it would be a different emotion.
He's not worried about late payments, a common occurrence for soccer clubs. Regarding the team's failure in the Pre-Olympic tournament in Las Vegas, he said there was no dispute between the athletes and disagreed with Marquinhos, who publicly criticized the team:
- There was friction between the coaching staff and the players, but that's common. It was resolved face to face.
The State Championship starts tomorrow, at 18 pm, in Volta Redonda, with Flamengo facing the local team.
Renato Mauricio Prado
Kléberson at Flamengo? It's still unclear whether it was a good signing. Since the 2002 World Cup, he hasn't been able to replicate his strong performances from that tournament.
I hope the red-and-black football team is up to date with salaries. Otherwise, no one will swallow the "investment," which can only be played next year. Then, you know, right?
Roger feels, Roger treats, Roger trains, Roger feels, Roger treats and... Playing, which is good, nothing!
Sports Journal
Joel says Fla's performance at Maracanã could have been better
Joel considers Fla's next three games decisive
The club's proximity to the relegation zone has coach Joel Santana on high alert. According to the club's manager, until the club reaches the points required to avoid relegation, it's time for hard work and little talk.
"Until we reach 50 points, we don't have to talk about anything. We have to reach a comfortable position. We have 12 games ahead. Of those 12, we need to get 16 points, which corresponds to five wins and one draw. And we won't have any easy games ahead," Joel told Rádio Tupi.
Not even the team's good performance at Maracanã leaves Joel ready for the next games against Atlético-MG, São Paulo and Fluminense and he reminded that Flamengo cannot make any mistakes, as happened in the classic against Botafogo.
"The performance at Maracanã is good, but it could be better. In the games we drew, we let important points slip away. Against Botafogo, we were awarded a penalty. And penalties in a derby are something you don't miss," the coach declared.
The formula for salvation in Fla
For the first time since returning to Fla, Joel will repeat the game system that has been working
NATHAN DE LIMA AND THIAGO BOKEL
Joel Santana talks to the group: the coach will finally be able to repeat the team's lineup for the game against Atlético-MG
New times at Gávea. For the first time in 14 matches at the helm of Flamengo, coach Joel Santana will be able to start a new lineup. And the timing couldn't be better. Tomorrow, the team will face a direct rival in the relegation battle: Atlético-MG, which is just one point behind Flamengo in the standings. The victory will give the necessary motivation for Flamengo to definitively escape the relegation battle. After this game, they will face leaders São Paulo and Fluminense, who are currently enjoying their best form in this Brazilian Championship - both in Rio.
After the loss to Internacional on September 8th, Flamengo played three matches and managed to achieve the most important thing for a team battling the specter of Serie B: scoring in every game. There were three matches, with one win, against Cruzeiro, and two draws, against Vasco and Juventude, conceding four goals, a reasonable number for a team that, at the start of the Brasileirão, had the worst defense among the 20 teams. 'Brucutus' in the middle
The change in approach is related to the new system developed by coach Joel Santana in recent rounds. With a midfield considered "brute-like," and with Rômulo acting as a third defender, the coach was able to give the full-backs the necessary freedom to attack.
Freedom
The significant improvement in performance has turned Juan and Léo Moura into the team's standout performers. Both are Flamengo's top scorers in the Brazilian Championship with five goals.
"This new way of playing gives us more freedom to attack. The defense is giving us more confidence, and the attackers are creating spaces for us to advance," explained Léo Moura, who has already scored four goals under Joel's command in the championship.
Despite all the merits, the Flamengo manager prefers to remain humble. Joel believes the team still has room for improvement, but repeating the lineup, even if not the ideal formation, is already a big step toward better days.
"The team is still finding its feet. I'm working with the best I have at the moment. I don't have a key player in this formation; the team plays as a whole. The full-backs are doing very well, and they should have scored more goals by now," the coach assessed.
Bruno meets Galo again
The match against Atlético-MG will be especially exciting for Bruno. Besides being the first time he's faced the club that made him famous, the goalkeeper will also face coach Emerson Leão, with whom he had a difficult relationship during his time at Corinthians.
Considered the best goalkeeper in the country by Flamengo fans, Bruno was overlooked by Leão when they worked together at the São Paulo club, which led to his departure, where he never even took the field. Bruno said he has no problem with his former coach and even praised him.
"Leão is a great coach, a very intelligent guy, but unfortunately it didn't work out with him at Corinthians. He preferred another goalkeeper, but I don't hold any grudges against him. But I want to win, of course, because when you play for Flamengo, every match you have to fight a lion," said the goalkeeper, who also took the opportunity to praise his former club.
"Atlético is big, I'm very grateful to them for everything. But today I'm here and I'm going to help my team," said Bruno.
Sheriff trusts in the strength of the fans
Flamengo faces Atlético-MG tomorrow at Maracanã, aiming to escape the dreaded relegation zone of the Brazilian Championship once and for all. To escape the abyss, coach Joel Santana relies on the security of his defense and especially on the experience of Fábio Luciano. The defender, who made his debut for the Red-Blacks in the victory over Náutico, knows he'll face challenges against Atlético-MG, but he relies on the support of the fans to defeat the Minas Gerais team.
"When we play at Maracanã, with the support of our fans, we feel more confident and that is very important to achieve victory," he said.
Against Atlético, it will be the first time that coach Joel Santana will field the same lineup two games in a row. During yesterday's training session at Gávea, defender Fábio Luciano explained the importance of repeating a lineup.
"We're able to repeat the team for the first time, and this helps us to be more in tune. We had a good week of training and we're going to do everything we can to win," he explained, taking the opportunity to praise the opposing coach, Leão.
"He knows a lot. When he was a goalkeeper, he was a leader on the field and that's why he knows how to pass this leadership on to his players. We know they're going through a difficult time and that's why they'll want to win," said the defender, who made it clear that he doesn't believe that Galo's strength comes solely from its coach.
"We can't forget that their team doesn't just have a good coach. They have a fast attack and a midfield that moves well," he added.
The medical department has never worked so hard
Flamengo's medical department is having a busy time. With three players considered starters (Roger, Renato Augusto, and Ibson) and a top prospect (Paulo Sérgio) injured, the doctors are having a lot of work. The cases of Renato Augusto and Paulo Sérgio are the most concerning. While the midfielder still has no return date, having suffered a right thigh injury in the derby against Vasco, the forward fractured his left collarbone in the same game and required surgery. He began physical therapy yesterday but is expected to return to ball training in ten days. Roger, on the other hand, only did weight training and is ruled out for tomorrow. Since the MRI on his left thigh didn't reveal anything serious, he's expected to be on the bench at least against São Paulo.
Ibson was the one who surprised everyone. The midfielder participated in yesterday's training session with the reserves and performed well, showing he's already recovered from his sprained right ankle. However, Joel chose to rule him out:
"Ibson returned today, I don't want to rush. Better to save him for the game against São Paulo, when he will have trained more."
Councilors reiterate support for the Gávea Revitalization Project
The presidents and vice presidents of Flamengo's Boards of Directors sent a letter to club president Márcio Braga, reaffirming the club's board's willingness to implement the Gávea Revitalization Project. The letter reinforces the Boards' support for the president so that the club can also win the Maracanã bid without giving up Gávea.
The good carioca returns to Rio
After a year in Lithuania, Marcelinho returns to wear the Flamengo shirt
RAFAEL OLIVEIRA
Three-time Pan American champion Marcelinho poses for photographers alongside coach Paulo Chupeta
A return to his roots. That's how Marcelinho Machado defined his return to Rio de Janeiro basketball. Yesterday, the player, introduced by Flamengo as their main signing for the season, wore the club's jersey for the first time and promised to put on a strong fight to bring home state and Brazilian titles.
After much negotiation, his signing was finally announced last Wednesday. The winger will remain at Gávea for a long time, as he will play for the club from Gávea for the next 27 months.
"As a Flamengo fan, I know the fans always want commitment. They can demand it from me because I guarantee it will never be lacking," said Marcelinho.
The player said that the long duration of the contract was one of the factors that influenced his choice.
"This contract is very long for an Olympic sport. That's what attracted me to Flamengo. I was already wanting to return to Brazil with my wife. In Lithuania, I lost contact with my family. Here in Gávea, I'll work peacefully alongside my two brothers (point guard Duda and physiotherapist Ricardo). I can say I'm returning to my roots," he said.
The winger will undergo a medical evaluation to determine how soon he'll be back on the court. His State Championship debut will likely be on the 7th against Fluminense, the club that discovered him and where his father, René Machado, works. Flamengo's competition begins tomorrow against Volta Redonda.
Brazilian National Team\ Brazilian National Team captain Marcelinho commented on the crisis that gripped the team after their elimination from the Pre-Olympics. The winger criticized Marquinhos and complained about the lack of time to gather the players.\
"Marquinhos didn't respect the group when he left the competition and gave that interview talking about the flaws in his leadership. The team's problem wasn't the coach, but rather the lack of enough time for the players to form a group," he said.
Luiz Augusto Veloso
Planet Ball
Unprecedented Fla-Flu
Luiz Veloso laveloso@jsports.com.br
In recent days, the presidents of Flamengo and Fluminense officially announced their participation in the bidding process for the use of the Maracanã stadium. This is good news. It would seem logical for both parties to reach an agreement and present a joint proposal. However, this seems unlikely. Perhaps it would be better for the process itself if they each competed with their partners and clout. Public assets should be better evaluated, and each party interested in the deal will be forced to seek more consistent solutions and collaboration to offer the best offer.
Fluminense has the participation of its main sponsor, Unimed. This is a relevant factor in formulating the club's proposal. Flamengo, on the other hand, has been in talks with the Bonham Group, a global leader in the marketing of sports properties, with a presence in several countries and experience in sports and entertainment.
There's a significant differentiating factor. Flamengo has been, by far, its most important partner throughout Maracanã's 57-year history. All 20 of the games with the highest attendances have involved Flamengo or the national team. Flamengo's offer will be based on this premise to calculate the business potential involving ticket revenue and all other properties the stadium owns.
The bidding notice is expected to be announced at the end of October. It's still unclear whether the government will draft it with a view to privatizing the stadium or the entire sports complex, or with a view to a partnership between the state, the club, and the private sector. A Fla-Flu match so unique that Nelson Rodrigues and Mario Filho couldn't have imagined it.
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The men's basketball state championship kicks off tomorrow and is poised to be the most exciting in recent memory. Vasco and Fluminense's efforts have generated creative solutions through partnerships with clubs from other states that needed to provide activity for their squads. Flamengo has definitely turned on the competition with the signing of national team point guard Marcelinho. Hosting some of the classics at Maracanãzinho will definitely elevate the state championship's status.
O Dia
Flamengo: And they're not even attackers
Wingers Juan and Léo Moura, each with 5 goals, are Fla's top scorers in the Brazilian Championship
Rio - "I already told Juan to stop picking fights with Souza and Obina. Why doesn't he go fight Maxi, who's his size?"
This advice comes from coach Joel Santana, who has two good reasons to joke: Leonardo Moura and Juan. The two full-backs are Flamengo's top scorers in the Brazilian Championship, each with five goals.
Because of his reputation as a brawler, short Juan, who claims to be 1,68'XNUMX", earned Joel the nickname "Marrentinho" (Little Marten). Shy off the field, he transforms when he has the ball at his feet. He fights, swears, and even scores goals.
"I've never scored more than three goals in a competition. But now I'm in the best shape of my life. To do what I've been doing, I depend a lot on my fitness," said the 25-year-old left-back.
On the other side, on the right, Leonardo Moura is battling with Juan for the team's top scorer spot. For the first time in his career, he's scored in three consecutive games—Flamengo's last ones, against Cruzeiro, Vasco, and Juventude. Leonardo would have been ahead of Juan with six if the referee hadn't disallowed a legitimate goal he scored last Sunday in Caxias do Sul.
"I'm loving this phase. People on the street are already calling me 'top scorer.' In 2005, I scored seven goals in the Brazilian Championship. I'm going to break that record, as I already have five," said the 28-year-old full-back.
While Leonardo Moura boasts about his goalscoring record, the shy Juan doesn't care about the feat. He admits his teammate should have scored one more goal.
"They took a goal away from him, right? But I'm also rooting for Souza, who is our reference on the field," said Juan, whose contract has been renewed until 2010.
MIDFIELD HELP
Coach Joel Santana is beaming. Because he's so confident in his full-backs, he'll repeat the formation that allows Leonardo Moura and Juan to advance tomorrow against Atlético-MG at the Maracanã: the midfield will consist of Rômulo, Cristian, Jaílton, and Toró.
"With this method, we can climb with peace of mind. I don't even need to look back, because I know they won't leave any space," concluded Leonardo Moura.
Ibson returns against the leader
Without the intention of changing the team that will face Atlético-MG tomorrow, at Maracanã, coach Joel Santana is gaining a reinforcement to be used next week: Íbson.
The player, out of the Gávea team for three games due to a right ankle injury, participated in 20 minutes of training yesterday. He performed very well, but will only return to the starting lineup on Thursday, when Flamengo faces São Paulo at Maracanã. "He did well in training, but it would be premature to start him," said Joel Santana.
Flamengo's coach isn't satisfied with Íbson just for his efforts to return to the team quickly. More than that, Joel sees the midfielder as a role model.
"He focused with his teammates, even though he was injured. He's a fully integrated player and will help us against São Paulo," the coach said. "We'll work on his recovery to get him back on the field," he added.
Roger, with pain in the back of his left thigh, had physical therapy yesterday.
Kleberson is expected to cost Flamengo around R$8 million.
Rio - The signing of Kléberson is a gamble that should cost Flamengo approximately €3 million (approximately R$8,1 million at the moment). This is the amount that Kléberson will initially have to pay Besiktas for breaking his contract with the Turkish club.
Flamengo's doubts are as follows:
1) Kléberson had requested a suspension of his four-month suspension for breaching his contract with the Istanbul club. Flamengo is now hoping that this appeal will not be granted, as they would prefer the player serve his suspension quickly, as they can no longer register him for the Brazilian Championship.
2) If, contrary to Flamengo's wishes, the suspension is granted to the player, the punishment will only come into effect in January 2009. In this case, Flamengo will give up on extending his contract, which ends in December of next year.
3) If, to the joy of the red-blacks, the suspension effect is lifted, the player will be free to enter the field in February and his contract will be extended until December 2012.
4) In mid-June, the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne will rule on the player's appeal to FIFA. If the decision that Kléberson must pay €3 million in compensation to the Turkish club is upheld, Flamengo will make the advance payment (or part of it), reaching an agreement with the player to reduce the amount over the course of his contract until 2012.
Even with so many impasses surrounding Kléberson's transfer, vice president of football Kléber Leite assured that he is making the bet because he believes in a happy outcome for the club and the player.
"Everything in life is a gamble. Even marriage, right? And I believe in Kléberson's football. It's as if I were betting that São Paulo will be the Brazilian champion. The risk of error is very small," the director stated.
Sports Gazette
Ibson trains with the reserves, but only returns against São Paulo\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - A day after seeing Roger leave training complaining of muscle pain, Flamengo coach Joel Santana had reason to smile this Thursday. Away from the team for almost three weeks, midfielder Ibson participated in about 20 minutes of training with the reserves and did not complain of ankle pain.\ Even with the midfielder showing agility, the coach ruled out using him against Atlético Mineiro this Saturday at Maracanã. Joel Santana confirmed that Ibson's return should be against São Paulo, on October 4th, also at Maracanã.\
Meanwhile, midfielder Roger remained in the weight room and did not participate in the ball practice. He has been ruled out of the match against Galo, as doctors fear he could aggravate his muscle problem.
For the first time, Joel will be able to repeat the lineup\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - While he won't be able to count on recently signed midfielder Kléberson and forward Obina, who is suspended by the Superior Court of Justice (STJD) for 120 days, at least coach Joel Santana will have a reason to celebrate before facing Atlético-MG this Sunday. For the first time since arriving at Flamengo, the coach will be able to repeat a starting lineup in two consecutive games, as there are no suspensions or new injuries. "It's always great when you can repeat a starting lineup, as it helps strengthen the team on the field, since the players have a well-defined tactic," celebrated Joel, who has fielded 14 different formations in the Brasileirão. "This also helps me in my lectures and team talks," he added.
With Flamengo currently in 14th place in the Nacional standings and potentially qualifying for the Copa Sudamericana if they beat the Minas Gerais team, defender Ronaldo Angelim emphasized the importance of the three points for the Gávea club. "It'll be a final for us," the defender analyzed. "It's a decisive match, we'll have a packed Maracanã, and I hope we can play well and get the three points," he declared.
Unless there are any last-minute problems, Flamengo will face Galo with the same lineup that drew 2-2 with Juventude at Alfredo Jaconi Stadium last weekend: Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, and Juan; Rômulo, Jailton, Cristian, and Toró; Maximiliano Biancucchi and Souza. This Friday afternoon at Gávea Stadium, Joel Santana will lead the final training session before finalizing the starting eleven.
Yellow card: In addition to beating Galo, Flamengo will also need to be alert, as left-back Juan, midfielder Toró and striker Maximiliano Biancucchi are suspended with two yellow cards and could be out of the classic against Fluminense if they are warned on Saturday.
Unable to play, Kléberson dreams of Fla in the Libertadores\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Presented as Flamengo's new signing for next season, midfielder Kléberson will have to watch the club's final 12 Brazilian Championship matches from the sidelines. And despite seeing the team close to the relegation zone, the player rules out the possibility of relegation to the second division and expresses confidence that the Gávea club can achieve even greater things in the national championship, such as a spot in the 2008 Copa Libertadores. "I believe in Flamengo's squad and also in the coach, because Joel is doing a good job and the team has been playing well," praised Flamengo's new signing in an interview with Rádio Brasil. "I believe the team has what it takes to compete for qualification in the Copa Sudamericana and even a spot in the Libertadores," he added optimistically.
Having arrived after the CBF's deadline for player registration for the Brasileirão, the five-time world champion will not be able to play for the club this year. The club considered legal action to secure the player. Kléberson, however, preferred not to get further involved behind the scenes, given his departure from Besiktas in Turkey. "Of course I'm eager to play, but there's this FIFA issue, and registration for the Brasileirão is already closed. There's no point in forcing anything," he said.
Unable to take the field for now, Kléberson is expected to be at the Maracanã on Saturday at 18:10 pm (Brasília time), when Flamengo faces Atlético-MG in the 28th round of the Brasileirão. "It will be a pleasure for me to be there supporting and cheering on the team," he concluded.
PeléNet
Joel will repeat the lineup for the first time at Fla
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
While coach Joel Santana will continue without midfielder Roger and defensive midfielder Ibson for Flamengo's next match, he also has a win. For the first time since returning to the club for his fourth stint at Gávea, the manager will repeat the same lineup for two consecutive matches.
In the collective training session on Thursday afternoon, Joel Santana selected the starting team with the same 11 players that drew 2-2 with Juventude, last Sunday, in Caxias do Sul.
Therefore, Flamengo will face Atlético-MG, next Saturday, at Maracanã, for the Brazilian Championship, with Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Rômulo, Jaílton, Cristian and Toró; Maxi and Souza.
After the activity, the coach commented on the possibility of repeating the team's lineup for the first time, after 14 matches played with 14 different formations.
"We're continuing our work. We've had a very stressful month. We've had fluctuations, but that's natural. Now, in these last two weeks, we've been able to talk better. The team is more combative," he said.
Defender Fábio Luciano believes that playing with the same lineup could benefit the team in the match against Atlético-MG. "The team will be more in sync. It's important to have the same lineup in two games. This could be a key factor in our victory," he stated.
Roger and Ibson remain out of the Flamengo team
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Once again, Roger and Ibson will be out for Flamengo. The defensive midfielder participated in Thursday's training session at Gávea Stadium, but coach Joel Santana opted to rest him for next Saturday's match against Atlético-MG at Maracanã in the Brazilian Championship. The midfielder didn't even make an appearance on the field and won't even be on the bench.
"My idea was to take him [Roger] with the group and use him. But he got injured," commented coach Joel Santana.
Last Wednesday, Roger was training normally with the reserves when he left training with pain in his left thigh. The player then left Gávea with doctor José Luiz Runco to undergo an MRI, which revealed no injury.
Despite this, Roger didn't train with the group on Thursday, only undergoing treatment with physiotherapists. Thus, he will miss Flamengo's fourth consecutive match.
The midfielder was sidelined by coach Joel Santana after the 3-0 loss to Inter on September 8th, to regain his fitness. The athlete was not in his best condition because he faced a strong sequence of games for Flamengo after being "sidelined" at Corinthians for about three months, at the decision of then-coach Paulo César Carpgiani.
Meanwhile, midfielder Ibson, who has also been out of action since the loss to Inter, showed that he has fully recovered from a sprained right ankle, suffered during the match against the Colorado team. However, as the athlete has not played for almost three weeks, Joel Santana preferred to promote the player's return in the match against São Paulo, next Thursday, at Maracanã.
"Ibson trained for 20 minutes and did very well. But he still needs to go through a physical recovery process. Saturday is too early. We'll need him fully fit later on. Therefore, we're keeping him for the game after Atlético-MG. That way, he can train more," explained Joel.
Flamengo goalkeeper avoids controversy in his first duel against Atlético-MG
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Next Saturday's match against Atlético-MG at Maracanã already requires careful consideration for goalkeeper Bruno. In this match, he will face his former team for the first time. The match would already be different simply because it's against the club that made him a football legend, but it also has two additional ingredients that spice up the reunion. That's why the athlete is avoiding controversy.
"It's a complicated situation, especially because of the statements I made. I said something that was misunderstood. I have a lot of affection for Atlético-MG, which was the club that launched me. But today, I defend other colors," commented the red-and-black number 1.
Earlier this week, Bruno made a statement that resonated very negatively in Belo Horizonte. When asked about the situation of his current club and his former team, who are battling relegation in the Brazilian Championship, the goalkeeper said that "if anyone has to go, let Atlético-MG go."
The interview's repercussions angered Flamengo coach Joel Santana, who called Bruno out on it. The coach is also concerned about a potential backlash from the opposing team on the field next Saturday.
"Atlético-MG will be bitten. A controversy was created because of something poorly put. But that's not the end of it. The guy and his family are being threatened because it was put in a way that the fans don't understand," said Joel.
Bruno confirmed that Atlético-MG fans had contacted him for an explanation. "I received calls from Atlético-MG fans who were upset. But I told them that if they opened the newspaper, they would see that what was on the cover was not the same as what was written inside. I didn't want to create controversy. In any case, I apologize," he revealed.
Bruno reunites with the coach who 'put him on the spot' at Corinthians\ As if the controversy surrounding Bruno's statements about the club that revealed him wasn't enough, the goalkeeper also had to answer another sensitive question this Thursday. Against Atlético-MG, the player will reunite with coach Emerson Leão, who "put him on the spot" at Corinthians.\
After leaving Atlético-MG, Bruno transferred to the Parque São Jorge club, but the coach didn't even name him on the bench for Corinthians' matches. However, the goalkeeper assures he's not upset with his former manager.
"He [Leão] had preference for other goalkeepers. I don't hold any grudges. On the contrary, I hope he gets Atlético-MG out of this situation," Bruno concluded.
BalloonSport
'This week will be difficult,' warns Joel
Coach sees Fla's next three games as decisive in the Brasileirão
Eduardo Peixoto
Joel Santana warns players about the dangers of next week
Saturday, Thursday, and Sunday. In eight days, Flamengo will decide its place in the Brazilian Championship, according to Joel Santana. The games against Atlético-MG, São Paulo, and Fluminense are considered true "finals."
"It's going to be a tough week. The toughest one yet. We'll have the chance to put Atlético-MG in the fight at the bottom and jump up the table. After them, we'll face the Brazilian league leaders and Fluminense, who are on the rise," analyzes the Flamengo coach.
However, on the horizon for Flamengo, there's good reason to be happy. All three games will be at Maracanã, with the support of the fans. Since Joel took over, Flamengo has won six games at the stadium and drawn three.
- We'll face top-quality teams, but the main thing is that we'll have the support of our fans - says the coach.
Marta's football enchants Fábio Luciano
For the defender, the player's dribble on her second goal is rarely seen even in men's football
Fábio Luciano says Marta's football is 'eye-catching'
Supporter Marta's excellent performance for the women's national team in the World Cup semifinal in China wowed not only fans but also many players. Flamengo defender Fábio Luciano was among those who joined the chorus of praise for the player's plays and dribbling on Thursday, when Brazil defeated the USA 4-0.
"It's eye-opening. Women's soccer in Brazil is growing and opening everyone's eyes. Marta is exceptional; I know the hardships she and the others have faced," says the defender.
For her second goal of the match against the US, Marta performed a stunning dribble past the American defender. With her back to her opponent, the Brazilian played the ball one way and then caught it the other. She then dribbled past another defender to score Brazil's fourth goal.
"Even in men's soccer, it's rare to see a dribble like that. She has a gift for playing soccer," Fábio praises.
Flamengo goalkeeper's family faces threats
Player says he was misinterpreted and asks for an end to the controversy with Atlético-MG
Eduardo Peixoto
Bruno is at Fla, but he was previously at Galo
Between Flamengo and Atlético-MG, Bruno said he'd prefer his former club to be relegated to the Second Division. The goalkeeper's obvious response didn't go down well in Belo Horizonte, and his family suffered the consequences.
According to coach Joel Santana, the player's mother and sister received threats because of his statements.
- Let's make a correction to that because the boy's family was threatened because of a misinterpreted statement.
Bruno will face the club that first revealed him. In the first round, at Mineirão Stadium, he watched the game from the stands because he was still negotiating a contract renewal with the Red-Blacks. The situation makes him uncomfortable.
"I received calls from people who were upset with what I said. But I've already explained, and I hope everything turns out okay. I have a lot of affection for Atlético, the club that revealed me. I didn't want to create any controversy. Quite the opposite. I was asked if the game were the last of the championship and Flamengo and Atlético were fighting to avoid relegation, who would I choose? Obviously, I choose Flamengo because it's the club I support. Unfortunately, I was misinterpreted, and I received these threats to my family. I hope neither team is relegated," declares the Flamengo goalkeeper, avoiding any hint of controversy.
Ibson is saved for Thursday
The player takes part in 20 minutes of training, but Joel prefers to leave him out this Saturday
Eduardo Peixoto
Ibson smiles alongside Souza during training
Ibson won't be back in the Flamengo lineup this Saturday. Having almost recovered from a severe right ankle sprain, he participated in a small portion of the training session at Gávea, but coach Joel Santana opted not to field him against Atlético-MG.
"Ibson trained for 20 minutes and did very well. But there are only two days until Saturday. It would be rash to start him," says the Flamengo coach.
The midfielder has been out of the team for three games. He's expected to return against São Paulo next Thursday. During his recovery period, Ibson impressed with his commitment.
"He focused with his teammates even though he was injured. He's a fully integrated player who will help us against São Paulo. We'll do a decent recovery effort these days to get him back on the field," says Joel.
Without Roger, Fla holds collective training in Gávea
Joel Santana keeps the team that drew with Juventude active this Thursday
Eduardo Peixoto
While his teammates played a training session at Gávea, Roger was working separately in the physical therapy room. His absence from Thursday's training session practically rules him out of Flamengo's game against Atlético-MG on Saturday at Maracanã.
The midfielder has been out of the team for two weeks undergoing physical recovery work and last Wednesday he felt a twinge in his left thigh.
Without Roger, coach Joel Santana kept the same team that drew 2-2 with Juventude. Only in the final part did the coach make a change and put forward Leonardo in place of Toró.
Flamengo should go to the field with: Bruno; Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Rômulo, Jaílton, Cristian and Toró; Maxi and Souza.
Happy and with family, Marcelinho arrives at Fla
Alongside his two brothers, the team captain dreams of winning the national basketball title
Lydia Gismondi
Player Marcelinho presented himself to Flamengo this Thursday, feeling optimistic about his two-year contract. The Brazilian national team captain is celebrating being part of the revitalization project for Flamengo basketball, his favorite team, and being alongside his two brothers, as Duda has also been hired and Ricardo is the team's physiotherapist.
"It's great to be back in Brazil, especially for a long-term project that runs until 2009. I may have left it out, but I've never lied about being a Flamengo fan. I started here playing in the youth team. Furthermore, I recognize all the effort Flamengo made to bring me and build a strong team. Because of all this, I'm sure I'll be very happy here," said the player, at a ceremony held at the club's headquarters, attended by club president Márcio Braga and vice president of Olympic sports, Patrícia Amorim.
Technical and personal factors led me to decide to play for Flamengo. It's a joy to be able to play on the same team as my brothers and even face my father, for Fluminense.
Marcelinho with the Flamengo shirt and flag
Marcelinho, who was playing for the Lithuanian team, Zalgiris Kaunas, is pleased with the team assembled by Flamengo to compete in this year's state and national championships.
"Having a competitive team was crucial for me to accept the invitation. I've always sought to play for clubs with a real chance of winning titles. I believe Flamengo has the team to win the state championship and compete for the national title. Of course, it depends on several other factors, but, at least on paper, Flamengo has a chance of winning."
It's great to be back in Brazil, especially for a long-term project that runs until 2009. I may have left it out, but I've never lied about being a Flamengo fan. I started here playing in the youth team.\ As GLOBOESPORTE.COM reported, Flamengo's vice president of Olympic sports, Patrícia Amorim, had been negotiating with the player since the beginning of the Pre-Olympic Games. Difficulties in agreeing on a price and contract length ended up delaying the player's positive signal.\
- It was very difficult to bring Marcelinho, but thanks to his willingness to come and our presidency's willingness to spare no effort, we were able to make it happen - explains Patrícia.
Playing at home and with family
Besides the pleasure of playing at home and for his beloved club, Marcelinho celebrates being part of the same team as his younger brother, Duda. He also has his older brother, Ricardo, the team's physiotherapist, on the team.
"Technical and personal factors made me decide to play for Flamengo. It's a joy to be able to play on the same team as my brothers and also face my father, for Fluminense. Plus, my mother lives near Flamengo and will definitely come to the games," says the player.
Marcelinho's father, René Machado, is the superintendent of Olympic sports at Fluminense. With his three sons on the opposing team's court, René is already predicting what this year's state championship will be like.
- It's going to be very exciting. We'll have both teams well-formed again, still competing as a family.
40 years ago, Zico arrived in Gávea
Galinho had his first training session on September 28, 1967. But he didn't even remember...
Bruno Neves and Thiago Dias
Exactly 40 years ago, Flamengo was introduced to its greatest idol. On September 28, 1967, Arthur Antunes Coimbra, then 14, trained for the first time at Gávea Stadium, with the youth academy. Every Flamengo fan knows the boy's nickname and the ending of this story: Zico, four-time Brazilian champion, Libertadores champion, and world champion. In an interview with GLOBOESPORTE.COM, "Galinho" admits he doesn't remember the exact date of his arrival in the youth ranks (watch the video below for rare footage of Zico's early days at Flamengo).
- I remember September 27th, which is the day of Saints Cosmas and Damian – he says, laughing over the phone.
Zico's Flamengo story began just a few days earlier. Brought by journalist Celso Garcia, his neighbor in the Quintino neighborhood, "Galinho" first arrived in Gávea for a youth training session, with boys under 17. At Celso's insistence, the coaches let Zico kick the ball around for a few minutes with the older players.
Celso Garcia keeps an autographed photo of Zico: a fanatical red-and-black fan
"I remember that day; it was the first time I went to Gávea with Celso. He accidentally took me on the wrong day. I was already too young to train with people my own age, let alone with older players? I returned on Thursday (the 28th) in the right category, with coach Zé Nogueira," he says.
Celso Garcia also remembers that September 28th. A die-hard Flamengo fan, the journalist saw Zico playing futsal in a tournament and after the game went to Galinho's house to ask permission to take him to Flamengo. At the club, he used his influence to convince coach Modesto Bria to watch the boy. However, few took him seriously when he arrived with Zico in Gávea to train at the academy.
"When Bria saw Zico, he asked, 'Is that it? That size?' He asked him to play a little, just so he wouldn't have to go home sweating. Zico was wearing green shorts and a red shirt, I remember that. In the middle of practice, Bria called him in. I was in the stands and saw people making fun of his size, some saying, 'Poor guy, he's so small.' On the first play, Zico put the ball under the leg of a tall defender named Cidade. Everyone applauded. Zico continued dribbling throughout the entire practice session," says Celso.
On October 1st, Galinho made his debut for Flamengo. The school's team defeated Everest 4-3, and Zico scored twice. It was the beginning of everything.
Kléberson wants to go to Maraca on Saturday
Flamengo's new player wants the fans' affection. He doesn't know when he'll start training.
Eduardo Peixoto
Kléberson kisses Flamengo's shirt during presentation at Gávea
Flamengo may have a special supporter for its game against Atlético-MG on Saturday. Newly signed midfielder Kléberson wants to go to the stadium to support the team and meet the Flamengo fans.
- I want to go to Maracanã on Saturday to feel the fans up close - says the 28-year-old player.
His contract with the Red-Black team begins on October 1st, and there's currently no word on when Kléberson will begin training with his teammates. A debut is out of the question.
- I have to hold back my anxiety so that when I have to play I'm ready to perform - declares the player.
Kléberson will be released to play on February 1, 2008.
Joel boosts the 'sensational' Leo Moura
The right-back's goal average at Flamengo under the coach is spectacular
Eduardo Peixoto
'Daddy' Joel boosts Leo Moura's numbers at Flamengo\ It's hard to say that Flamengo is a weak team. Whether on the left or right flank, the team manages to maintain the same offensive performance. It's no wonder that Leo Moura and Juan are the red-and-blacks' top scorers in the Brazilian Championship, with five goals.\
But while performance under former coach Ney Franco was satisfactory, with the arrival of Joel Santana, the performance of both full-backs improved significantly. First came Juan. He scored goals in three consecutive matches, against Juventude, Goiás, and Botafogo.
Now it's Leonardo Moura's turn to get back on track. He's also on a three-game streak in which he's found the net (Cruzeiro, Vasco, and Juventude) and thanks his "dad" Joel for his rise.
"When he arrived, he asked during the pre-game meeting where the full-back who scored the goals was. I felt confident in him. It's a good thing I have some extra balls," says Leo Moura.
'Doping' in statistics\ With Joel Santana...\ Games Goals Average 23 8 0,34\
The right-back's numbers at Gávea under Joel Santana are impressive. In the 23 games Joel has managed him, including the 2005 and current seasons, he has scored eight goals (an average of 0,34 per match). With the others...\ Games Goals Average 103 6 0,05 match). With the other coaches who have been at the club, Leo has scored six goals in 103 games (an average of 0,05 per game).\
The difference is brutal, and the coach also follows the statistics.
"I knew more or less about these numbers. But Leo deserves it. He's a sensational guy," says Joel Santana.
Joel mocks Juan's short temper
Coach praises full-back, but says he picks fights with the wrong people
Eduardo Peixoto
Juan has a reputation for being bad-tempered at Fla
Joel Santana has a special affection for Flamengo's full-backs. That's precisely why he feels comfortable playing with them. Juan, for example, has a reputation for being grumpy and hot-tempered.
And the coach doesn't miss the opportunity to mock his team.
"He's a great kid. But sometimes he gets nervous. And he always picks bad fights. He's had a falling out with Souza, Obina, Leo Lima... I told him: stop being silly. Pick a fight with Toró, he's short. Or with Maxi. Get the Argentine and choke him out," Joel jokes.
Juan's nickname among his teammates is "Seu Saraiva." Since joining Flamengo, he's argued with his teammates several times during training. Despite this, he's well-liked by the group.
- Juan is a sensitive guy, very intelligent. Sometimes I scold him and I see how bad he feels - says Joel
Throw
Bruno wants to 'kill a lion' against Galo
Despite the pun, the goalkeeper has no hard feelings towards Atlético's coach
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo's match this Saturday against Atlético Mineiro at 18:10 PM at Maracanã will be the reunion of Flamengo goalkeeper Bruno with the club that developed him. The match will also pit the player against Galo coach Leão, who didn't use him when he was in charge of Corinthians.
When asked if he would greet Leão, the goalkeeper stated that he does not hold a grudge against the Atlético coach and that he will not go in with the desire to show the coach that he made the wrong choice, but rather to remain a starter on the team.
"When you play for Flamengo, you have to fight a lion every day. I go onto the field as if it were my last game," he said, not realizing the pun on the coach's name.
Roger and Ibson are vetoed by Joel Santana
Even though they are practically recovered, players are discarded\ LANCEPRESS!\
Flamengo coach Joel Santana stated after Wednesday's training session at Gávea that he will be without midfielder Roger and defensive midfielder Ibson for Saturday's match against Atlético Mineiro at Maracanã in the 28th round of the Brasileirão. Even though the players have practically recovered from their injuries, the Flamengo coach prefers to play it safe.
Roger's starting lineup was in question after he felt pain in his left hamstring on Wednesday and didn't even participate in Thursday's training session. Although no injury was confirmed, Joel prefers to be cautious with the player.
"If he didn't train, I can't take him to the game. Even though he doesn't have any injuries," the coach said after practice.
Ibson, practically recovered from a sprained right ankle, took part in the training session at Gávea, but was also ruled out for this Saturday's match.
"He only trained for 20 minutes because Ronaldo (Torres, fitness coach) asked him to. He trained well, but it's still premature to start him against Atlético Mineiro. We'll need him in the future, and he's integrated into the group. He could return for Thursday's game against São Paulo, but we'll still have to wait," the coach explained.
Joel tests Leonardo alongside Souza
Coach takes Toró off and moves Maxi back to midfield in training session\ LANCEPRESS!\
Even though he could repeat the same lineup for the first time in 14 games, coach Joel Santana could make another change to Flamengo's starting lineup for the match against Atlético Mineiro this Saturday at 18:10 p.m. at Maracanã. The new addition could be forward Leonardo.
In the collective training session held this Wednesday, in Gávea, the coach selected the starting team with the same formation that started the game against Juventude, last Sunday, with Bruno; Leonardo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Rômulo, Jaílton, Cristian and Toró; Maxi and Souza.
Midway through the training session, Joel removed Toró from the playmaking and brought Leonardo in to form a strike duo with Souza. This left the Argentine Maxi dropped back to take on Toró's role.
The Rubro-Negro's starting lineup for the match against Atlético Mineiro should be defined in training this Friday.
Kleberson confirms that he spoke with Flu
Tricolor was interested in having a midfielder for the Libertadores
Surprisingly signed by Flamengo in the early hours of last Wednesday, midfielder Kleberson confirmed in an interview with Rádio Brasil that he was approached by rival Fluminense at the beginning of the year, but did not reach an agreement.
"Actually, the conversation with Fluminense took place right after I left Turkey. If I'm not mistaken, at the end of April. I was leaving the Turkish team, and there was interest, but nothing close to an agreement. It was just a conversation," he said in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
The Tricolor club intended to count on Kleberson for the Brazilian Championship. Besides the Laranjeiras club, Santos also expressed interest in the midfielder.
For Joel, the goal is to 'eliminate' Galo
The two teams are directly fighting for the fight against relegation
After a long time, Flamengo has had a whole week to prepare for a match. Therefore, the anticipation for the match against Atlético Mineiro, this Saturday at 18:10 PM, at Maracanã, is growing increasingly among the players and coaching staff. Another factor that increases the importance of this match is the position of both teams in the standings: Rubro-Negro is in 14th place with 34 points, while Galo is in 15th place with 33.
In this context, Flamengo's players approach this match as if it were a game of life or death.
- He is a direct opponent and we must eliminate him to compete with other Brazilian opponents - he stated.
For defender Fábio Luciano, Flamengo's objective is not even to fight relegation with Atlético Mineiro, but rather to seek a place in next year's Copa Sudamericana.
- We need to add more points in these games and put Flamengo in a good position - he added.
Marcelinho Machado arrives in Gávea
Returning to the country and forming a team were factors in signing with Flamengo
Marcelinho signs contract with Flamengo until December 2009 (Credit: Gilvan Souza)
FELIPE MENDES\ Forward/guard Marcelinho Machado was introduced this Thursday morning as Flamengo's newest player. At the club's headquarters in Gávea, in the city's South Zone, the Brazilian national team captain donned the Rubro-Negro jersey and vowed his love for his new team. Marcelinho played last season for Zalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania and signed a contract with the Rio de Janeiro club until December 2009.\
"It's a great joy to be able to return to Brazil. My desire to return to my country and the excellent team Flamengo has formed influenced my decision. I know how difficult it is to bring a player who plays abroad, and my decision, at 32 years old, may have closed the door to a return to Europe. But I'm confident in what was agreed with Flamengo and hope to bring much joy to the fans."
For the Rubro-Negro, Marcelinho will play alongside his brother, Duda, and will have his other brother, Eduardo, as his physiotherapist. During the State Championship, which begins on Saturday, the Machado family will face their father, Renê, Fluminense's director of Olympic sports.
"I played with Duda at Fluminense years ago, but he was still very young. Now, he's more experienced and I think it will be a great partnership," said the Brazilian national team's winger/point guard, who will not participate in Flamengo's State Championship debut on Saturday against Volta Redonda at 18 p.m. in Volta Redonda due to being out of shape.
Flamengo's vice president of Olympic sports, Patrícia Amorim, revealed that the first informal contact with the player took place during the Pan American Games in Rio in July. Amorim didn't believe Marcelinho would accept the club's offer.
"We're working to restore Flamengo's credibility. It was a pleasant surprise to hear from Marcelinho that he wanted to wear the red-and-black jersey. It was a team effort to make his signing possible," Patrícia said, without disclosing the transaction amount, but emphasizing that basketball spending is within the club's Olympic sports budget.