THE GLOBE
Jorginho declines invitation and Andrade gains strength at Fla
Diego Tardelli and Obina find success away from Gávea
When asked about Flamengo's interest in having him as coach during the Brazilian national team's call-up, Jorginho was evasive. To the Flamengo board, which had expected to announce him yesterday, Dunga's assistant was more direct. While saying he was honored by the invitation, he declined, claiming he couldn't dedicate himself 100% to the club. According to the proposal, during his time at the CBF, he could leave Flamengo's management to the interim manager, Andrade, who is starting to feel less like an interim. Confirmed for tomorrow and Sunday's games against Atlético-MG and Naútico, both at Maracanã, he has a blank page before him to write his own story.
"Andrade will be the one to tell me if he'll be Flamengo's coach," said vice president of football Marcos Braz, who admitted receiving calls from several coaches but denied having made any contact, much less an offer, to Vágner Mancini. "I've never spoken to that guy."
While Andrade begins to gain his place at the club, players who had a recent frustrating stint at Flamengo are beginning to shine away from Gávea, such as Obina and Diego Tardelli, who are on the verge of a new dimension in their careers.
Having failed to score a goal in 13 games for Flamengo through May, Obina has now scored eight in nine appearances for Palmeiras. On Sunday, he scored three against Corinthians. Having scored eight goals for Atlético-MG in the Brazilian Championship, Diego Tardelli celebrated his first call-up yesterday:
- Until last year, I was viewed with suspicion. I'm proving that I can be the player everyone expected.
Obina once again received praise and the chant the Flamengo fans created in his honor. In the Palmeiras version, the striker "is better than the fat guy." The adjective used to taunt Corinthians' Ronaldo was the same one that tormented Obina during his time at Gávea:
- This song was from Flamengo and we have to leave it behind. Let's create a new one.
SPORTS JOURNAL
Kleberson happy with another call-up
Midfielder will not be able to defend Fla against Fluminense, in the South American
Rio de Janeiro - Kléberson has revealed he's in Dunga's plans for the Brazilian national team. A member of the squad that won the Confederations Cup in June, he was called up again by the Rio Grande do Sul coach this Tuesday for the friendly against Estonia on August 12th. He expressed his satisfaction with the new addition through his press office.
"I know the hardest part isn't being called up, but rather remaining one of the coach's options. I'm happier and more motivated than ever," he reveals.
With the call-up, Kleberson will miss the Rubro-Negro's first match of the initial phase of the South American against Fluminense, which also takes place on the 12th.
Angelim eyes Galo's selectable player
Striker asks for attention from Diego Tardelli, called up to the national team and Thursday's opponent
Rio de Janeiro - Ronaldo Angelim, Flamengo's most experienced defenseman, is aware of the challenges the team will face on Thursday against Atlético-MG at the Maracanã. The Minas Gerais team is leading the Brasileirão and boasts striker Diego Tardelli, recently called up to the Brazilian national team. Angelim demonstrates his connection to the Minas Gerais attack, which also boasts another strong player.
"We have to be careful not only with Tardelli but also with Éder Luís, who is quick and a great finisher. In addition to the attack, the defensive midfielders are also good. Atlético isn't the leader for nothing, and we'll have to make as few mistakes as possible. This is his first call-up, and he deserves it," the defender opines.
Angelim also knows Tardelli's quality due to the striker's time at Flamengo in 2008.
"He's a player I know and he'll want to show his ability even more after being called up. The training sessions we played here were balanced because our defense was more solid," explains the player.
Reasons to be happy
Support for Andrade, the call-up of Kleberson, and the maintenance of the team encourage Flamengo
Vinicius Castro
Gávea, Rio de Janeiro - The atmosphere at Rubro-Negro has definitely changed. Cuca's departure from the team's helm has transformed the atmosphere, leaving the coaching staff feeling like it's finally starting to work smoothly. So much so that the search for a new coach is proceeding slowly and calmly, as defined by the vice-president of football, Marcos Braz. Andrade has gained the full backing of the board and will remain in charge of the club regardless of the result against Atlético-MG on Thursday at Maracanã.
Thus, the "tromba" led a collective training session under heavy rain on Tuesday afternoon in Gávea. The team that beat Santos was maintained, and the starters won 2-1. Leo Moura and Adriano scored. Zé Roberto, recovering from injury, scored for the reserves. Juan, injured, remains out. The team consisted of: Bruno; Welinton, Aírton, and Ronaldo Angelim; Leo Moura, Willians, Toró, Kleberson, and Everton; Emerson and Adriano.
The team's main defensive player, defender Ronaldo Angelim, considers it important to maintain the team and support coach Andrade.
"The group is relaxed, and the atmosphere has changed a bit. We hadn't been winning games, and now things are different. We know Andrade well and know how we have to play. He has our full support, and we'll try to do our best. We have two home games, and we can't afford to slip up anymore. The Brazilian Championship is winding down, and we need to win. We'll be playing a team that plays well away from home, and the three points will be crucial for our future in the competition. We hope for the fans' support, and for them to be patient and avoid booing, as that's a hindrance. We'll never lack determination," he stated.
A highlight of the team before the retirement of former captain Fábio Luciano, Angelim admits that the defense needs to improve.
"We've been conceding a lot of goals and we need to improve considerably defensively. We know that as the games go on, we'll tend to gel even more. Welinton, Aírton, and I are working on that," he assured.
Kleberson summoned
In addition to the massive attendance at training, the news of midfielder Kleberson's new call-up to the Brazilian national team excited the red-and-black squad. The player will face Estonia on August 12th and will miss Flamengo's Copa Sudamericana opener against Fluminense. Angelim congratulated his teammate, despite lamenting his absence.
"We were happy with Kleberson's call-up and joked a lot about him. He's a top-notch player who deserves it. Unfortunately, we're going to lose a player at a time when we need him. Let's hope he does well with the national team and returns as soon as possible to help us," he concluded.
In a press conference with the Brazilian national team, Jorginho maintains the mystery regarding the red-black survey
Rio de Janeiro - Jorginho's name emerged strongly in Gávea to be Flamengo's new coach, however, the Brazilian national team's assistant maintained the mystery and spoke for the first time about the possible approach by the red-black board.
"I'm happy my name is being considered. But we're talking about the national team, and the important thing is to focus on the national team. That's all," said the former full-back during the press conference about his call-up for the friendly against Estonia.
40 at the Maraca: the time to take off
The match against Atlético-MG is seen as the deciding factor for the start of a new surge.
Vinicius Castro
Rio de Janeiro - A request from a world champion and club idol doesn't usually go unanswered. Andrade has called on the fans for Thursday's tough match against Atlético-MG at the Maracanã, and the response promises to be positive, according to the organized fan club leaders, who are preparing a huge party and promise to pressure the Minas Gerais team throughout the 90 minutes.
The club's fundraising director, Flávio Pereira, expects 40 red-and-black fans to attend the stadium.
"Filling the Maracanã for a Thursday night game is complicated. Even with the exceptional victory we had over Santos, it's a difficult feat. We're working with around 40 fans. That number is considered very good for a Thursday game at 21 p.m.," he told JORNAL DOS SPORTS.
Whenever we talk about the red-and-black fans, it's inevitable not to remember the 2007 Brazilian Championship run. At that time, attendance records were broken in a row at Maracanã, when the club brought over a million fans to the stadium. Andrade believes the match against Atlético-MG could be the start of a new run, and Flávio Pereira agrees.
"This game is the deciding factor. If we win, we'll have a packed Maracanã stadium against Náutico on Sunday, and it could be the start of a new surge. The fans' response is indicative of the results on the field. This streak of victories and excitement moves the fans. I have no doubt that the fans will respond. A victory on the field is a victory in the stands," he concluded.
John Areosa
Andrade now!
areosa@jsports.com.br
This past weekend was, to say the least, exciting. Sad about what happened to our Felipe Massa. Sensational and vibrant because of the feat of Bernardinho's team. Joyful and dramatic because of good old-fashioned soccer. With swimming and track and field also included.
I commented on the JS blogs about that damned moment when the part came off Barrichello's car and was thrown by the hand of fate toward Massa's head. Thank goodness he's okay, and I'm not playing with words here, I'm simply stating a truth that makes me very happy.
Volleyball. I mentioned volleyball, and I must say that the renovation work everyone expected to happen in a year or so has already yielded extraordinary dividends and profits.
The Serbian team is spectacular, but our giants, well-served by Bruninho and well-led by his father, Bernardinho, made that packed and vibrant stadium bow before us. And to add to the excitement, a tiebreaker was the final. What a game, my friends!
Bruninho's tears were moving, as were Andrade's tears on the Vila Belmiro pitch. Andrade has the Flamengo skin, the same skin worn by goalkeeper Zé Carlos, who left us so soon.
Flamengo's new vice president of football, Marcos Braz, is busy searching for a replacement for Cuca. I must be either stupid or crazy—I can't rule out the possibility of both—but, my God, who and what am I looking for?
I ask the reader: why Vagner Mancini? Is this guy more competent than Andrade? Is he as much of a Flamengo fan as Andrade? Has he played better than Andrade? Has he honored the mantle more than Andrade? Is he as much of a Carioca as Andrade?
The answer is a resounding NO!
I'm a distracted man, very disconnected. I've looked for glasses that were on my forehead. The other day I lost the TV remote and couldn't find it. No wonder, I was sitting on it. I could lose an elephant in the limited square footage of my living room.
I've just met someone more distracted than I am. He's the Flamengo director I mentioned earlier. Mr. Marcos Braz is looking for a coach who's right under his nose.
THE DAY
Fla worried about Diego Tardelli
By Luciano Mello
Rio - Looking to make a breakthrough in the Brasileirão, Flamengo will face a familiar face tomorrow at the Maracanã: Diego Tardelli, who played for Flamengo last year and is the standout player for Atlético-MG, the league's leader. Defender Ronaldo Angelim marked the striker several times in training sessions in 2008, as Tardelli spent most of the season with the reserves, and says the defense will need to be alert throughout the 90 minutes to prevent his former teammate from finding the net.
An idol among the Galo fans, Diego Tardelli will enter the field with even greater morale after being called up to the Brazilian national team yesterday, where he will reunite with Kléberson, also called up by Dunga. "Tardelli's call-up was well-deserved," said Angelim.
The Flamengo defender demonstrated his familiarity with the Atlético striker, who, with eight goals, shares second place in the Brazilian Championship with four other players, including Adriano. "We work together here at Flamengo, and we have to mark him closely. Besides being fast, he's a great finisher, and he'll want to show even more of his worth now that he's been called up to the national team," he stated.
Angelim admits that the defense hasn't yet found the necessary security since Fábio Luciano retired after the State Championship. The experienced player seeks to instill confidence in young Welinton. "Fábio and I have been together for two years, with a very good connection. Welinton and I are still making some mistakes, but we've improved in recent games."
To contain Tardelli and his attacking teammates, Flamengo relies on ball steals. Flamengo is the team that disarms opponents the most in the Brasileirão, especially midfielder Willians, the tournament's top ball stealer. The statistic doesn't surprise Angelim, but he makes it clear he's not satisfied. "We've had this good number of disarms since last year. Even so, we're conceding too many goals in this Brasileirão; we need to reduce that. We're happy with our good marking. The more balls you steal, the more chances you have to counterattack."
Andrade in command until Sunday
Rio - Flamengo's vice president of football, Marcos Braz, remains unhurried in the search for a new coach. Thus, interim coach Andrade is already confirmed for the match against Náutico on Sunday at Maracanã, regardless of the result against Atlético-MG. The top candidate to take over at Flamengo is still Vágner Mancini, who confirmed contact between club officials but denied any agreement. The coach is also the Sport board's favorite to take over at the Pernambuco club.
At Gávea, new names are emerging every day. Yesterday, it was Estevam Soares' turn, the Barueri manager. He was reportedly offered to the board, but didn't generate interest. For now, the possibility of Andrade being hired remains slim, but some board members support the idea.
Readers want Andrade to be appointed as the team's coach
Rio - Andrade should remain in charge of Flamengo. At least that's the opinion of O Dia Online readers. When asked about keeping the coach as the team's manager, 85,2% were in favor, while 14,8% were against keeping "Tromba" at the helm of the Rubro-Negro.
The club's directors are still considering the possibility of keeping Andrade on the coaching staff. "He's a professional we know and who knows the club. Even his continued coaching role can't be ruled out," said the club's interim president, Delair Dumbrosk.
Check out the poll results:
Should Andrade be kept in charge of Flamengo?
Yes 85,2% (2132 votes)
No 14,8% (370 votes)
Total: 2502 votes
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo defender asks for attention with national team striker
Gazeta Press - Rio de Janeiro (RJ)
Diego Tardelli's call-up to the Brazilian national team was considered fair by defender Ronaldo Angelim. The Atlético striker will be on the field this Thursday when Atlético-MG visits Flamengo at Maracanã in the Brazilian Championship. For the Flamengo defender, the opponent is dangerous and well-known, having played for Gávea until the end of 2008.
"Tardelli's call-up was deserved. He's in great form at Atlético-MG. He's an intelligent, opportunistic, and fast player. We have to be careful with him throughout the 90 minutes. It was always difficult when I trained against him. We can't let him, or the rest of Atlético-MG, down," he said.
Interim coach Andrade led a training session this afternoon and repeated the team that beat Santos over the weekend. Striker Zé Roberto, recovering from muscle pain, trained with the reserves.
The club's board announced that Andrade will remain in charge of the team at least until next weekend's match against Naútico, also at Maracanã, regardless of the agreement with a coach.
At Flamengo, Juan's lineup remains undefined
Gazeta Press - Rio de Janeiro (RJ)
Coach Andrade will only define Flamengo's team for the game against Atlético-MG, this Thursday, at Maracanã, when he has confirmation of the presence or not of left-back Juan, who has been out for several matches due to tendonitis in his left knee.
Juan has been participating in physical training with ease, but he hasn't yet trained with a ball, which could delay his return. Andrade said he will wait until Wednesday and, if Juan is fully cleared by the physical trainers, he will return to the team. Otherwise, Everton, who despite playing in a makeshift position received high praise from the club's manager, will continue as a starter.
The coach hopes the fans were motivated by the historic victory over Santos at Vila Belmiro and will turn out in droves to cheer the team on against Galo. "The loss to Goiás doesn't affect Atlético MG's strength, as they have a great squad and will capitalize on Flamengo's mistakes," said Andrade.
PELENET
Called up again, Kléberson talks about continuity in the national team
From UOL Esporte
In Rio de Janeiro
Kléberson was part of Brazil's squad that won the Confederations Cup in South Africa. Called up again by Dunga, this time for the friendly against Estonia in Tallinn on August 12, the Flamengo midfielder is already excited about continuing with the national team and is focused, of course, on the 2010 World Cup, also in South Africa.
"I always say that being on the Brazilian national team is the highest level a player can reach. I felt this in 2002, winning the World Cup, and I dream of playing in this competition again. I hope to continue my work with the national team and prove that I have what it takes to be called up regularly," he added.
"I also know that the hardest part is not being called up, but rather remaining one of the coach's options. I'm happier and more motivated than ever," added Kléberson, who now only thinks about Atlético-MG, their opponent this Thursday at 21 pm at Maracanã, in the 15th round of the Brazilian Championship.
"It's going to be a tough match, as Atlético-MG is coming off a home loss to Goiás and needs to bounce back in the competition. We also want to win to get closer to the competition leaders. It's going to be a tough game," he stressed.
With the call-up for the friendly against Estonia, Kléberson will miss Flamengo's match against Fluminense, on August 12th, at Maracanã, still in the national phase of the Copa Sudamericana.
In office until Sunday, Andrade confirms Flamengo for Thursday
From UOL Esporte
In Rio de Janeiro
Flamengo's board is searching for a new coach, but has already decided that Andrade will remain in an interim role until Sunday, when the club faces Náutico at Maracanã. However, the coach's only thoughts are on Atlético-MG, their opponent this Thursday at 21 p.m., also at Maracanã, in the 15th round of the Brazilian Championship.
At Tuesday's training session in Gávea, Andrade made no bones about it and confirmed the same team that defeated Santos 2-1 last Sunday at Vila Belmiro. Left-back Juan, injured, remains out.
Midfielders Zé Roberto and Petkovic are available again for Andrade on Thursday. Both were injured and missed the match against Santos.
If nothing changes by Thursday, Flamengo will face Atlético-MG with the following formation: Bruno; Welinton, Aírton and Ronaldo Angelim; Leonardo Moura, Toró, Willians, Kléberson and Everton; Emerson and Adriano.
With 20 points, Flamengo sits in ninth place in the Brazilian Championship. A victory over Atlético-MG will put Flamengo back in the top four. Today, Internacional, with 4 points, rounds out the group that would qualify for the 24 Copa Libertadores.
Ordinance changes the installment plan for clubs' debts to the Union
From UOL Esporte
In Sao Paulo
Brazilian clubs with debts to the federal government benefited from the measure on Tuesday. The Attorney General's Office issued Ordinance 1.106, which introduced changes to the installment plan for these debts.
The measure, published in the Official Gazette of the Union, provides the following: clubs that prove participation in Timemania and that have not yet paid off their debts to the Union have until August 6 to do so.
Corinthians, for example, is one of the clubs that missed the deadline to register for the "first" Timemania and must now register its debts in the program. Flamengo, in turn, must register new debts incurred since the lottery's inception.
The decision amends Ordinance 1.024. Approved in December 2007, it regulated the installment plan provided for in Law 11.345, which defined the criteria for clubs' participation in Timemania.
The lottery was created to help teams pay off their debts to the federal government. Registered clubs receive 22% of the total amount raised; this amount is used to pay outstanding INSS (National Social Security Institute), Severance Indemnity Fund (FGTS), Federal Revenue Service (IRS), and other federal taxes.
"Who is Bruno Paulo?"
Previously unknown to many, midfielder celebrates good performances at Flamengo
Diego Marrul
When Bruno Paulo took the field in the match against Barueri at Maracanã, many fans asked themselves, "Who is this?" However, those familiar with the youngster's career in the club's youth ranks knew his potential. Praised after his performances against the team from the interior of São Paulo and against Santos last Sunday—when he delivered the cross that led to the winning goal for the red-and-blacks—the 19-year-old said he was at a loss for words to describe the joy he feels at this moment.
"I'm speechless. One day I was on the youth team, and suddenly I'm playing for the senior team. I'm so happy, I couldn't be happier," said the attacking midfielder in an interview with Justicadesportiva.com.br. He was in the youth squad competing in the Taça BH, but before the match against Barueri, he was called up to the senior squad in a rush due to the large number of absences.
Despite his satisfaction, Bruno Paulo knows he still has a long way to go before establishing himself in Flamengo's first team. According to him, to make that happen, he's received a lot of support from his teammates. "They always give me a boost and are helping me a lot. Léo Moura is one of those who helps me a lot. That's really helpful for keeping the nerves at bay," said the player, who revealed his joy at playing alongside some of the biggest names in Brazilian football.
"Playing alongside Adriano is great, as is playing with Emerson, Léo Moura, and others," he added. "I'm already feeling a difference on the streets; people come up to me."
When he came on, Bruno Paulo played well, dropping down the right, almost like a winger. And he says he's comfortable playing that role. "I really like playing like that; it's better for me, getting the ball to the baseline. I like dropping down on both the right and the left," he says.
Despite being anxious during his two appearances, the attacking midfielder didn't shy away from the game, constantly seeking the ball. According to him, this has been a characteristic of his since his youth career. "I've always been like this, wanting to have the ball. I don't feel much of a difference between the youth and professional levels. The biggest difference is the pace. In the junior category, for example, the game is faster; in the professional level, you can think a little more, spend more time with the ball," he assessed.
Andrade asks Flamengo fans for support and calm against Atlético-MG
From UOL Esporte
In Rio de Janeiro
The 2-1 victory over Santos on Sunday at Vila Belmiro rekindled the flame of Flamengo fans. Discouragement was cast aside, and hopes of climbing the table were strengthened. That's why interim coach Andrade expects a packed Maracanã stadium on Thursday, when the Red-Blacks face Atlético-MG.
However, the coach issued a warning and asked fans to remain calm. Despite playing at home, the team from Gávea won't be attacking in a disorderly fashion. Everything will be done with the utmost caution.
"The presence of the fans is essential. Our fans make a difference and must give us strength so we can continue winning and climbing the table," Andrade added.
"What we're not going to do is rush the opponent from the outside in desperation. We can't leave ourselves exposed, give in to counterattacks. The goal could come after one minute, after eighty, it doesn't matter. We can't rush," the manager stressed.
With their victory over the São Paulo team on Sunday, Flamengo reached 20 points and now sits in ninth place in the Brazilian Championship standings. Atlético-MG, the leader, has 28.
Zé Roberto should be available for Fla on Thursday
From UOL Esporte
In Rio de Janeiro
Flamengo should have another attacking option for the match against Atlético-MG on Thursday at Maracanã. Midfielder Zé Roberto, who has been playing more as a striker, has recovered from a left thigh problem and will likely be cleared by the medical department.
The player last played a few days ago, on July 20th, when the Rubro-Negro drew 2-2 with Botafogo. After that, the team drew 1-1 with Barueri and beat Santos 2-1.
"I've been doing some very intense physical training over the last few days and have also trained with the ball. I haven't felt any discomfort and I'm very excited about the possibility of being released and available for this game," he stressed.
Even if he's ready for the match, Zé Roberto isn't expected to start. Andrade's intention is to maintain the team that beat Santos at Vila Belmiro. However, since he's already in good physical shape, the midfielder could be an option for the second half.
Signed at the beginning of the season as the team's number 10, Zé disappointed and had a subpar State Championship. After failed transfer attempts to Cruzeiro and Botafogo, the player managed to recover physically in the last month and began to show more promising football.
GLOBOESPORTE
'Andrade has the group's full support,' says Ronaldo Angelim
Guaranteed until Sunday, the interim player receives support from the defender. He asks the fans not to boo the team.
Eduardo Peixoto and Fred Huber Rio de Janeiro
Andrade guides Willians during Flamengo training
The emotional team talk, the hug after Adriano's goal, and the tears at the end of the 2-1 victory over Santos were signs of Andrade in tune with the Flamengo players. And this Tuesday, Ronaldo Angelim approved the board's guarantee that the interim coach will remain in charge until Sunday, regardless of the result of the match against Atlético-MG.
"Andrade has the group's full support. We're at peace because we know him well and like him," he said.
The defender hopes the coach's favorable mood extends to the stands. After a three-game home winless streak (two draws and one loss), Flamengo has two more matches against the red-and-blacks to regain its prestige.
"The fans can be sure that there will be no shortage of enthusiasm in these two games. But they have to support, not boo. We have two more home games, and there's no room for hesitation," he stated.
In ninth place in the Brasileirão table, with 20 points, Flamengo faces Atlético-MG this Thursday at 21 pm (Brasília time). GLOBOESPORTE.COM follows in Real Time, with videos.
Bruno Paulo delights the crowd, marias-chuteiras and receives close marking
Flamengo prospect reveals he missed several youth training sessions because he didn't have money for transportation
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Bruno Paulo with his girlfriend Jeniffer
Bruno Paulo only played in two games, both coming on as second-half substitutes. It was enough to open the eyes of the fans. But not just them. Alongside his girlfriend, Jeniffer, the 19-year-old Flamengo prospect is feeling the first "side effects" of his promotion to the professional team. And it has nothing to do with the strength of the opposing defenders.
"It all went much faster than I thought, but it's okay. It's just that there's a lot of bullshit going on, and my girlfriend is annoying. She won't even let me log into Orkut anymore," the player lamented over the phone to GLOBOESPORTE.COM.
Born and raised in downtown Niterói, the striker ("That's how I prefer to play," he said) faced setbacks in the youth ranks. He needed R$12 a day to travel to and from the club. As a result, he missed numerous activities.
"It was tough. I missed a lot of training sessions due to lack of money. But I never considered giving up because I believed in my potential. My mother (Esther) always encouraged me and found a way to pay for transportation," he said.
Bruno Paulo after a Flamengo training session
Bruno Paulo played for Canto do Rio and arrived at Flamengo in 2000, recommended by coach Anthony. He remained in futsal until 2002. When he was promoted to the youth team, he quickly earned a nickname: Ronaldinho. Those familiar with the club are quick to recall its reputation for overestimating promising young players. This isn't the case.
"To this day, I don't know why I got that nickname. And what's worse, the kids who gave it that nickname aren't even at the club anymore," he said, not hiding his shyness about his "responsibility."
In the youth ranks, Bruno watched Camacho and Erick Flores get pushed into the professional ranks. He thought his time would never come. But nine days ago, while in Belo Horizonte with the youth team, he was called up to be on the bench against Barueri. Despite the draw, his performance was praised. On Sunday, he came on again in the second half and crossed the ball for the goal that secured the first victory in history in an official match against Santos, at Vila Belmiro.
"It didn't sink in that I was next to Adriano, for example. I was a little sad when I saw several friends go up and it wasn't my turn. But I kept to myself. Now the time has come," said Bruno Paulo.
With their new weapon on the bench, Flamengo faces Atlético-MG this Thursday at 21 p.m. (Brasília time) at Maracanã. GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be covering the game in real time with videos.
SHORT: Waterproof Emperor
Lonely, the player ignores the storm and practices finishing. Bruno Paulo gives a disconcerting flick to Willians.
Eduardo Peixoto and Fred Huber Rio de Janeiro
Second-highest scorer in the Brazilian Championship with eight goals, Adriano showed this Tuesday that not even the rain affects him. After training, while his teammates were getting ready to leave, the Flamengo forward braved the storm at Gávea to practice his shots. After 15 minutes with only the goalkeepers as his "partners" in the rain, the Emperor left the field.
CHECK OUT THE LIST OF TOP SCORERS
Abused
One of the most beautiful moments of Tuesday's action was Bruno Paulo's flick on midfielder Willians. The 19-year-old midfielder will be on the bench for Thursday's match against Atlético-MG at Maracanã. He came on in the second half of the last two games and received praise.
He left silently
Called up to the Brazilian national team, Kleberson preferred not to give interviews at Flamengo. The player hitched a ride in an umbrella and left Gávea. He later commented on his return to Dunga's squad via his press office.
"I know the hardest part isn't getting called up, but rather remaining one of the coach's options. I'm happier and more motivated than ever," he said.
He will be out of Flamengo's match against Fluminense, on August 12, in the first phase of the Copa Sudamericana.
Andrade keeps the team that beat Santos, and the starters win collectively
Heavy rain disrupts the final part of the session led by the interim coach. Adriano makes his mark.
Eduardo Peixoto and Fred Huber Rio de Janeiro
Adriano scored a penalty goal in the training session
Coach Andrade led a training session on Tuesday afternoon in Gávea, keeping the Flamengo team that defeated Santos 2-1 on Sunday at Vila Belmiro. The starting players won the training session 2-1. Heavy rain in Rio de Janeiro significantly disrupted the final part of the training session, which ended up being shortened. The goals were scored by Léo Moura and Adriano (from the penalty spot). Zé Roberto pulled one back for the reserves.
Around 150 fans attended the training session at the club. The Emperor was the most celebrated by the red-and-blacks. Left-back Juan again only completed physical training and is unlikely to be on the field in the next round. Petkovic, having recovered from a muscle problem in his left thigh, trained normally with the reserves.
In the match against Atlético-MG, Thursday, 21 pm, at Maracanã, Fla should enter the field with: Bruno; Welinton, Airton and Ronaldo Angelim; Léo Moura, Toró, Willians, Kleberson and Everton; Emerson and Adriano.
Flamengo keeps Andrade as coach until Sunday's game against Náutico
At a meeting, the board proceeds without rushing to announce the new coach
Eduardo Peixoto and Fred Huber Rio de Janeiro
A meeting on Tuesday marked another step in Flamengo's leadership change. GLOBOESPORTE.COM learned that regardless of the outcome of Thursday's match against Atlético-MG, Andrade will remain as coach for Sunday's match against Náutico.
The strategy is part of the new board's "choose calmly" motto and has been in place since the match against Santos, when the Rubro-Negro won 2-1. Vice-president of football Marcos Braz has repeatedly stated that he does not intend to make a mistake in choosing the new manager and therefore wants to make the right choice.
Early Tuesday afternoon, GLOBOESPORTE.COM spoke with someone close to the board, who ruled out Vagner Mancini's name. At least for now.
Jorginho neither confirms nor denies Flamengo's contact to be the coach
Dunga's assistant avoids answering whether he was approached by the red-black club
Thiago Dias Rio de Janeiro
Jorginho talks to Dunga after call-up
Former Flamengo player Jorginho has emerged as a candidate to fill Cuca's vacancy as the club's coach. On Tuesday, Dunga's assistant with the Brazilian national team left the matter in the air: he neither confirmed nor denied whether he had received any inquiries from Flamengo or another team.
"I'm happy my name is being considered. But we're talking about the national team, and the important thing is to focus on the national team. That's all," said the former full-back during the press conference about being called up for the friendly against Estonia.
A journalist persisted in asking if Flamengo had contacted him, and Jorginho didn't respond, just smiled. Américo Faria, a CBF supervisor, took the floor and made a joke, drawing more laughter from those present:
- Petrobras is the drilling specialist – Américo joked.
Dunga's assistant since the captain of the fourth-place team began his work with the national team in 2006, Jorginho has only had one experience as a coach, at América.
Without pain in his thigh, Zé Roberto hopes to be available against Galo
The midfielder is in the final stages of recovery after being injured in the match against Botafogo, in the 12th round of the Brazilian Championship.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
Coach Andrade has another option for Flamengo's match against Atlético-MG on Thursday at 21 p.m. at Maracanã. Midfielder Zé Roberto is in the final stages of recovering from a left thigh strain and is confident he can be available to the coach.
"I did some intense physical training over the weekend with Marcelo Martorelli (fitness coach). Afterward, I did some ball work and felt no pain. I'm excited to be available for Andrade for the match against Atlético-MG."
Zé Roberto was injured in the match against Botafogo and had to sit out the games against Barueri and Santos.
Flamengo fans are called to fill the Maracanã against the leader Galo
With renewed spirits after the victory over Santos, at Vila, the team faces Atlético-MG this Thursday
Fred Huber Rio de Janeiro
Andrade at Flamengo's training session. He asks for the support of Flamengo fans this Thursday at Maracanã.
The victory over Santos on Sunday at Vila Belmiro lightened the mood in Gávea and was a welcome boost for the fans. It was the first time the team had managed to leave this stadium with all three points in official matches. This Thursday at 21 pm, Flamengo faces leaders Atlético-MG, which promises to be a lively affair at Maracanã.
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Aware of the importance of this match for Flamengo's hopes of closing in on the top four, coach Andrade issued a call to action to the fans. The Flamengo manager, however, urged patience in advance.
"Fan participation is essential; Flamengo fans always make the difference. But you have to be patient, knowing it will be a tough game. Football these days is like a game of chess; teams play very defensively. A goal may only come late in the match."
Rubro-Negro is in ninth place in the Brazilian Championship with 20 points
THROW
Carlinhos serves as a mirror for coach Andrade
Former coach started as interim coach at Fla and was a multi-champion
LANCEPRESS!
It was a quick meeting hosted by LANCENET! between two top-10 players from Gávea. On one side, Andrade, who will lead the team until Sunday and is the fifth player who has worn the red-and-black jersey the most.
On the other hand, Carlinhos, who is seventh and who also started his coaching career as an interim coach.
"Good luck, my friend. I'm rooting for you with all my heart," Carlinhos said.
"It's an honor for me. Now, I have to put my master's teachings into practice," Andrade replied.
In 1983, the year of the Brazilian Championship, Carlinhos took over as interim coach of Flamengo, replacing Carpegiani. They played five games (one win, one loss, and three draws) before Carlos Alberto Torres took over.
But it was in 1987 that his coaching career took off. Carlinhos replaced Lazaroni and stayed until he won the fourth Brazilian Championship. He only left in the 88 Carioca Championship, having already established himself as one of Brazil's promising new coaches. After that, he coached for four more stints at Gávea and won other titles.
And it's more or less along this same path that Andrade has been building his career off the field. His first call-up was in 2004. This is his seventh interim role at Flamengo. And, if Carlinhos has his way, he's likely to be promoted.
– He deserves it for everything he knows about football, for what he experienced at Flamengo, for all his dedication to the club and for the human being that he is.
As a former player, he has everything to succeed as a coach, as he knows the field like few others – said Carlinhos, without wanting to give any tips.
"I'm away from the field and don't want to comment on his work. Andrade knows a lot and does what he can to help Flamengo," said Violino during one of the card games at Gávea.
Andrade, who immediately accepted the invitation to meet Carlinhos, thanked him for his words.
"As a human being and a coach, he's a role model for me. He's a two-time Brazilian champion with Flamengo, among other achievements. I wish I had a career like his," Andrade concluded.
Flamengo moves forward and decides to keep Andrade until Sunday
However, the coach remains as interim against Náutico. Agreements stall
ANDRÉ MARRIED RIO DE JANEIRO
Flamengo's board decided to move ahead of schedule and will give Andrade an extra vote of confidence. This means that, beyond Thursday's match against Atlético Mineiro, the interim coach will remain in charge at least until Sunday's match against Náutico in Rio, as confirmed by vice president of football Marcos Braz.
The main reason is the short timeframe to sign a professional before the end of the week, given that negotiations and inquiries are still in their early stages. Thus, Tromba will be on the sidelines, as they will play a three-game streak.
"Nothing has changed, and no negotiations have been halted. We simply met and decided to alleviate even more of this time pressure. We have great confidence in Andrade," reiterated the club's director, who still intends to provide more detailed information about the coach's future on Thursday morning, so as not to be influenced by the game's outcome.
Marcos Braz wants reinforcements for Flamengo, but awaits a new coach
To replace Ibson, midfielder Alan Bahia even started negotiations with Kléber Leite
Defender David was the last to arrive at Gávea (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)
ANDRÉ MARRIED IN RIO DE JANEIRO
The lack of haste in agreeing on a coach is also seen as key to avoiding mistakes in reinforcements for Flamengo's squad. Maintaining a consistent policy, vice president of football, Marcos Braz, sees the need to hire for specific areas, but he shouldn't act until he's determined the professional who will lead the team until the end of the season.
One of the names that interested him and even opened negotiations with former director Kléber Leite was Alan Bahia, who is trying to leave Japanese football. The defensive midfielder would fill a position that the Red-Blacks have been lacking since the departure of Ibson, a player who can transition the ball between defense and attack.
- I have some convictions in my head regarding the positions, but I prefer to discuss this calmly with the next coach - Marcos Braz said.
Alan is still tied to Atlético Paranaense, which could make the transaction difficult. Furthermore, he earns a high salary. A meeting was scheduled for Friday of last week, but it didn't take place due, firstly, to Cuca's dismissal the day before and, more importantly, to the club's departure of the person leading the venture.
It's worth noting that Flamengo still has two players to make their Brasileirão debuts. Defender David, formerly of Panathinaikos (GRE) and Palmeiras, who arrived five days ago, and forward Denis Marques, who arrived from Japan earlier this month. Both will only be eligible to play on August 3rd.
On the other hand, with the transfer window for departures still open, there are fears of losing Willians, who is consistent and in good form, and Kleberson, called up to Dunga's national team for the second consecutive time.
Flamengo's starters win collective match in Gávea
Adriano stands out with a goal and for the commitment he demonstrated
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo held its only collective training session on Tuesday ahead of Thursday's match against Atlético Mineiro. In about 50 minutes of activity, the starters won 2-1. Leonardo Moura and Adriano scored the goals, with Zé Roberto pulling one back for the substitutes.
Andrade kept the same lineup that started the match against Santos: Bruno, Welinton, Aírton, and Ronaldo Angelim; Leonardo Moura, Willians, Toró, Kleberson, and Everton; Emerson and Adriano. Halfway through the training session, Angelim was rested due to the heavy pitch. Fabrício came on in his place.
"I'm not feeling anything. It was just a precaution. The field was heavy because of the rain, and I preferred to train a little less. That's also good because we practice options in case I need to be substituted."
After training, still in the pouring rain, Adriano was the last to leave the field. He practiced countless penalty kicks.
Bruno Paulo earns praise from Andrade and is given the status of a new talisman
The striker has performed very well in recent matches. The interim manager is already expressing confidence.
LANCEPRESS!
For those unfamiliar, Bruno Paulo is the newest addition to Gávea. Recently promoted from the youth team, he was competing in the Taça BH until ten days ago. Out of necessity, Cuca called him up. And his debut, followed by the match against Santos, couldn't have gone better. Strong performances and a near-goal (Pará scored an own-goal) earned him praise, especially from Andrade.
"He came in very well, he already has my confidence. I put him on the spot; it's moments like these that show whether a player is ready. I congratulate him," the interim coach praised.
Speaking to LANCENET!, Bruno Paulo, who will be on the bench on Thursday once again hoping for a break between Emerson and Adriano, said he was very surprised by the sudden opportunity, but that when it came, he had no choice but to seize it. The youngster worked with another world champion in the youth academy: Adílio.