THE GLOBE
Without Léo Moura and concerned about Goiás, Caio will choose Toró. \ Flamengo's coach opts for a more cautious formation despite needing a win. \ Photo caption: Goalkeeper Bruno makes the save in training: with Toró, the team is better protected and wins in the build-up play. \ The news that coach Caio Júnior expected to receive sooner or later was given to him early this morning at Gávea. With pain in his right knee, full-back Leonardo Moura is ruled out for tomorrow's decisive game against Goiás at the Maracanã. Luisinho has been confirmed, but what was crucial in resolving Caio's main doubt, between Toró and Éverton, were Paulo Baier, Romerito, Iarley, and wingers Vítor and Júlio César. Despite the obligation to win, Flamengo is concerned about the opponent's offensive power. Therefore, the coach opted for Toró. \ "It's a risky game, the second-to-last of the Brazilian Championship. After that, there's no way to reverse the situation in the Libertadores. So we have to read the game well. Toró and Aírton mark and move forward. Éverton is a situation for the middle of the match," he explained. \ During the week, some players indicated that choosing Éverton was the most suitable option given the team's situation. Caio Júnior wasn't tempted. Between boldness and caution, he didn't hesitate. \ "I worked on the Goiás game. They have players who can unbalance the opposition," he said. "I prefer to start like this (with Aírton and Toró). It's a dangerous game. We're well served and we free up Ibson, Kleberson, and Marcelinho." \ Fábio Luciano and Tardelli \ They are acquitted by the STJD. \ Asked about the differences in the team with Toró and Éverton, Ibson was to the point. \ "With Everton, we get forward more. With Toró, we gain in marking and in ball distribution," he said. "The important thing is that we are calm and relaxed to play." \ The good news yesterday was the acquittal, by the STJD (Superior Court of Sports Justice), of defender Fábio Luciano and striker Diego Tardelli for their expulsions against Cruzeiro. The club's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho, managed to have the accusations of offense and aggression against referee Carlos Eugênio Simon dismissed, and both will be able to face Atlético-PR in the last round. Fans who wish to help the homeless in Santa Catarina can do so tomorrow at the Maracanã, in front of gate 18 and the Bellini Statue, where members of organized fan groups will be collecting donations. \
SPORTS: Unity to help the homeless \ Flamengo players pose with a banner asking for help for the flood victims in Santa Catarina, after training at Gávea. They recorded testimonials requesting assistance for the people of Santa Catarina, and tomorrow fans can make donations at gate 18 of the Maracanã, before the game against Cruzeiro. Players from Fluminense and Botafogo will autograph shirts to be auctioned, with the proceeds going to the homeless. Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa did the same with his racing suit, in addition to donating R$50,000. Another R$50,000 will be donated by the organizers of the Desafio das Estrelas (Challenge of the Stars) in Florianópolis. \
SPORTS JOURNAL
Léo Moura is definitely ruled out.
Rio de Janeiro - Right-back Léo Moura (pictured) has been ruled out by the Medical Department for Sunday's game against Goiás in the penultimate round of the Brazilian Championship. The player kicked the ground during Wednesday's training session and suffered a sprained right knee. \ Although there is no serious injury, Léo left Gávea limping quite a bit in recent days. In his place, Caio Júnior fielded Luizinho, who in recent matches had been playing at left-back.\ Ibson summons \ Having come up through Flamengo's youth system, Ibson knows that the fans play a crucial role in the team's games at the Maracanã. Aware of the difficulties he will face against Goiás, he asked for the support of the Flamengo fans for the last game of the season in Rio de Janeiro.\ “There are two games left. We ask for the fans' support to encourage us because it's important for us to continue fighting for the Libertadores. It's the last game of the year at the Maracanã. It's special for us because we need to win no matter what to bring joy to our fans, who deserve it so much. Despite the setbacks in some games, I'm sure we'll have their support and bring them joy.” \
An unbeatable defense
On the two occasions that Jaílton and Angelim played as defenders, they didn't let anything get past them.
Rio de Janeiro - With Fábio Luciano absent (suspended due to expulsion), coach Caio Júnior ended up fielding an undefeated defensive duo for Sunday's decisive match against Goiás at 17 pm at the Maracanã. On the two occasions that Jaílton and Ronaldo Angelim played together, without the captain on the field, Flamengo did not concede any goals.\ The good form of the new center-back duo gives the fans more hope, since tomorrow's match could determine who qualifies for next year's Copa Libertadores. If Flamengo loses, the dream of continuing to compete for a spot in the top four also ends, along with the sixth championship title, which will have to wait until next week after the 3-2 defeat to Cruzeiro at Mineirão in the last round.\ The first time Jaílton and Angelim played together in central defense was in a 1-0 victory over Atlético Paranaense at the Maracanã. The game's only goal, incidentally, was scored by Jaílton himself, who at the time said it marked the beginning of a new era for him.\ "Everyone always picked on me, and this goal marks a new beginning for me," says Jaílton after the match.\ That game was truly a fresh start for the player. A few rounds later, his name was even being chanted by the fans, who had previously always criticized him.\ On the eve of Flamengo's 5-0 thrashing of Coritiba, JORNAL DOS SPORTS explained how Jaílton and Angelim would be positioned without Fábio Luciano. The new formation also worked, and the team overwhelmed Coritiba, with a brilliant performance from Caio Júnior's defensive system.\ "Ronaldo Angelim and I have been playing together for a while now. We're going to play as a center-back pairing again, and I don't believe there will be any problems. I'm very happy to know that we haven't conceded any goals together. That's a number that makes me very happy. Angelim is a great player, which makes playing with him easy. Playing with a player like him is always very good," says Jaílton. \
For Caio Jr., Goiás' wingers and attack are a cause for concern ahead of Sunday's game.
Rio de Janeiro – With another crucial match ahead, coach Caio Jr. warns of the dangers Flamengo will face against Goiás on Sunday at the Maracanã. The match, valid for the 37th round, is the team's penultimate game in the Brazilian Championship and, therefore, is extremely important for the club to secure the coveted spot in the Libertadores Cup.\ According to the coach, the team needs to be careful with the Goiás team, especially their wingers and attack.\
According to Ibson, Flamengo won't be more defensive with Toró.
Rio de Janeiro – After having fielded Everton in place of Fábio Luciano in training during the week, Flamengo coach Caio Jr. seems to have changed his mind and is expected to field midfielder Toró for Sunday's match.
Not even a contract until the end of next year guarantees Caio Jr. a place in 2009.
Rio de Janeiro – After losing the chance to win the sixth Brazilian Championship title, Flamengo's coach in this season, Caio Jr., doesn't know if he will continue leading the team next year.
It was a penalty on Tardelli.
A tape showing the play from behind surfaced, and many people changed their minds. I watched the play dozens of times, in real time. Nobody sees it in slow motion. And I have no doubt. It was a penalty. The foul is committed high up, Leo Fortunato's left arm pushing Tardelli in the shoulder. Tardelli doesn't step on the ball; it stays still because he had controlled it and remains in place. Then he's prevented from getting up, another foul. Simon was wrong and doesn't want to admit it. He also failed to say that the Flamengo striker usually simulates fouls. Punish him whenever he does that, but you can't call a foul based on assumptions, prejudging a situation. And if it were another player, would he have given it? \ I have no reason to believe that Simon is dishonest or afraid to call against the home team. I don't believe that; he's a serious, intelligent, and competent guy. He lacked the humility to recognize his mistake. He remained on the pedestal they put him on and refuses to admit his error. The penalty is clear and should be analyzed technically. The referee's position in that play required him to be further away, in an open diagonal to the left, as recommended by the International Board. This would have given him a peripheral view of the play, with a greater chance of being correct, with the development of the play to his right. Facing Tardelli and Leo Fortunato, as he positioned himself, he was seeing "their backsides," a term used in refereeing terminology. Being "on top of the play" isn't always ideal. If he had been further away, he certainly would have called the penalty. \ Simon was betrayed by his experience, imagining it would be a common play. And he didn't change his trajectory. Being close to the play forced him to look at the ball, which prevented him from seeing what was happening above. To better illustrate this, just look at the penalty kick awarded to Rogério of Corinthians against Robinho, which made the Santos striker famous with his stepovers. While the play was developing towards the penalty area, Simon ran diagonally to the left, a position that allowed him to see the play clearly. He awarded a crucial penalty, with the confidence of his skill. "A club like Real Madrid can't go around blaming referees, complaining about injuries or talking about bad luck," said President Ramón Calderón, refuting criticism from football director Pedja Miyatovic and coach Bernd Schuster. Marcio Braga has the floor.\
THE DAY
Rio - Besides the technical loss, Caio Júnior laments that the absences of Fábio Luciano, suspended, and Leonardo Moura, injured, will cause the team to lose its main leaders against Goiás tomorrow at 5 pm at the Maracanã. Without time to lament, the coach decided to resort to the 4-4-2 formation, with Jaílton and Ronaldo Angelim in defense protected by Aírton and Toró, with Íbson having more freedom to join the attack. In this way, Flamengo thrashed Coritiba 17-0.
“Without Fábio and Leonardo, the team loses two leaders, but I'm confident. We've played great games with this formation, including against Coritiba, when we did very well,” highlighted the coach, who then analyzed how the team will approach the match against Goiás:
"Aírton and Toró mark and then move forward. We stay well protected and free up Íbson, Kléberson, and Marcelinho." Luizinho will replace Léo Moura, and Everton will be on the bench.
Before transferring to Flamengo, Caio Júnior worked at Goiás and warns about the dangers posed by players Paulo Baier, Iarley, and Romerito. \ Furthermore, the coach has a 'spy'. Defender Leonardo may finally be able to help, even without stepping onto the field. He played for Goiás for two years. “We can't give space to two players in particular: Paulo Baier and Vítor. If Romerito recovers from his injury and plays, he also needs to be closely monitored,” Leonardo stated. \
Rio - On August 5th, the day before the first-round match against Goiás, fans stormed Gávea, threw bombs onto the field, and the team completed seven games without a win.\ Yesterday, November 30th, Caio Júnior prepared the team for tomorrow's match against the Goiás team. Without much fanfare, the coach, who will lead his last game for Flamengo at the Maracanã before his farewell match on the 7th against Atlético/PR, recalled the bomb incident, the problems at Gávea, and made it clear that he prefers to work abroad. \
Bomb in Gávea
"Those who run football and the authorities have to provide security so that football can return to being the sport it always was in Brazil."
Learning in Gávea
“I’ve lived through very different situations and experiences. From now on, I’ll have a better benchmark for making decisions, as is the case with Muricy Ramalho and Luxemburgo. Everything I’ve experienced here, the problems, will serve as food for thought in future situations.”
Work abroad
"I even envy Zico, in a good way. I understand when he says he wouldn't work at Flamengo to avoid being booed and talks about the pressure in Brazil. Abroad, there's more security and the work is long-term."
Team of the race
"We have a team that fights until the end, and the fans should be satisfied with that. But we're not perfect, nor are we the best."
Cauldron in Gávea
"The planning is for the next game. Unfortunately, that's how it is in Brazil."
Frustrations
“I’m frustrated at not being champion. But I believe the Brazilian Championship was calm for the fans. We had the best campaign in recent years, we fought for the title almost the entire time, but the tendency in Brazil is always to look at things from the negative side.”
Homegrown champion
"The more players the club develops, the better the financial return will be. At Flamengo, Erick Flores, Tiago Salles, among others, will succeed. But you have to be careful when launching players. Erick himself was unlucky and things didn't go well when he was used."
Wall with ears
"I've never been as exposed as I was at Flamengo. Things leak a lot at the club. Everything I experienced served as a lesson."
Rio - Still upset about the alleged error in not awarding a penalty in favor of Flamengo in the last minute of their 3-2 defeat to Cruzeiro, the Rio de Janeiro team filed a complaint this Friday with the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD) against the referee of the match, Carlos Eugênio Simon from Rio Grande do Sul. Flamengo is asking the court to punish the referee for the error committed at the Mineirão stadium.
"Mr. Simon made an irreparable mistake; the team could even be excluded from the Copa Libertadores because of this gentleman's error," declared Flamengo's lawyer, Michel Assef Filho.
Defender Fábio Luciano and striker Diego Tardelli, who were sent off in last Sunday's match, were acquitted by the STJD (Superior Court of Sports Justice) in a trial held this Friday, and will be able to play in the last round of the championship, but will serve an automatic suspension in the duel against Goiás, this Sunday at 17 pm (Brasilia time), at Maracanã.
In addition to the players who were sent off, right-back Léo Moura, suffering from knee pain, has been ruled out and will also miss the Flamengo match. Luizinho has been confirmed as his replacement.
In midfield, Toró and Aírton have been confirmed in Flamengo's starting lineup, which is expected to be as follows: Bruno, Luisinho, Jaílton, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Toró, Aírton, Íbson and Kleberson; Marcelinho Paraíba and Obina.
Rio - After Friday morning's tactical training session at Gávea, coach Caio Júnior expressed confidence in a good performance from Flamengo on Sunday against Goiás at the Maracanã. Even without Fábio Luciano and probably Léo Moura, who again did not train, the Flamengo coach believes that the team is prepared to overcome Hélio dos Anjos' side.
“Our team is a little different without Fábio Luciano and Léo, who are two leaders. With Airton and Toró, we already beat Coritiba and did very well in other games. We only didn't perform well when we lost players and were severely depleted. I think losing to Cruzeiro as we did, and the performance we had against Palmeiras, leaves us satisfied with the campaign. Frustrated for not winning the title, but still fighting for the Libertadores. São Paulo is perhaps the most consistent, which is why they are close to being champions.”
For Caio Júnior, Flamengo cannot think of any other result other than victory on Sunday.
“It’s a risky game because it’s the second-to-last game of the championship. If we don’t win, we won’t have a chance to reverse the situation in the Libertadores. It’s a very important game and we’re going to fight hard to get the victory. It will be a confrontation with an opponent who has nothing to lose and whom we need to beat at all costs.”
The red-black coach praised Fla's campaign in this 2008 Brasileirão and said that the planning for the next season will only be discussed after the last two games of the year.
“After the next two games we will outline the plan for 2009. At the request of the management, I have been observing the youth players, which is part of the planning for next year. What I see today is that it was a calm Brazilian Championship, we never risked relegation and fought for the title until the penultimate round. We still have chances of qualifying for the Libertadores Cup. That's how São Paulo wins championships, by always being in the lead. That's how the chances of winning increase.”
Rio - Rio - Fla Filmes will release the DVD “3X Fla” next Wednesday, December 3rd, highlighting the last three achievements of Clube de Regatas do Flamengo. “É Campeão” (We Are Champions), “Conte Comigo Mengão” (Count on Me, Mengão) and “Vamos Flamengo” (Let's Go Flamengo) recall the titles of the 2006 Copa do Brasil and the 2007 and 2008 Campeonato Carioca (Rio de Janeiro State Championships), respectively.
The DVD will be sold exclusively on Flamengo's official store website.
, for R$49,90. The launch trailer can be seen at youtube.com.br/flamengo.
Rio - Flamengo is receiving donations for the victims of the floods in Santa Catarina, at the main entrance of the Club, at Av. Borges de Medeiros, 997, Lagoa. For days, the Nation's Ambassadors and fans from all over Brazil have been mobilizing, collecting clothes, utensils, medicines and non-perishable food.\ \ The players recorded a statement asking for help for the inhabitants of Santa Catarina and will take to the field on Sunday carrying a banner in support of the homeless.\
Fans who wish to help the homeless in Santa Catarina can do so on Sunday at the Maracanã stadium, in front of gate 18 and the Bellini statue, before the Flamengo vs. Goiás match. Members of the club's organized fan groups will be collecting donations.
Rio - Defender Fábio Luciano and striker Diego Tardelli were tried and acquitted on Friday afternoon at the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). The two were facing charges for their expulsions in the game where Flamengo lost to Cruzeiro 3-2 last Sunday at the Mineirão stadium.
The trigger for the expulsions was the alleged penalty not awarded by the game's referee, Carlos Eugênio Simom. The Flamengo defender was charged under article 252 (Moral Offense) of the CBJD (Brazilian Code of Sports Justice). Tardelli, on the other hand, was reported for assaulting Simon and responded under article 253.
Both players are serving automatic suspensions and will miss Flamengo's match against Goiás next Sunday at 17 PM at the Maracanã. They are eligible to play in the final game against Atlético-PR.
Rio - Raised in Flamengo's youth system, midfielder Ibson knows that the Flamengo fans play a fundamental role in the team's games at the Maracanã. Aware of the difficulties Flamengo will face on Sunday against Goiás, the number 7 player asked for the support of the Flamengo nation for the last game of the season in Rio de Janeiro.
“There are two games left, and we ask for the fans' support to encourage us because it's important for us to continue fighting for the Libertadores. It's the last game of the year at the Maracanã. It's special for us because we need to win no matter what to bring joy to our fans, who deserve it so much. Despite the setbacks in some games, I'm sure we'll have their support again and bring them joy.”
For Ibson, Flamengo will be very attacking in the match, even with midfielder Toró's introduction in midfield. He made a point of praising the opposing team's quality.
“Toró knows how to play out from the back well, and that gives us the certainty that we will be very offensive. We are going to face a very good team, with two excellent full-backs, and quality in midfield as well, with Romerito and Paulo Baier. Iarley is also very good up front. The team has many talented players, but Paulo Baier is the player to mark.”
Ibson celebrated his nomination for the 2008 Brasileirão Player of the Year award.
“I’m always calm when I work, I try to stay cheerful and willing to help everyone, no matter the situation. It was with this calmness and the help of my family that I overcame difficult times, and now I have the chance to compete again as the best in my position,” said the player, who last year won the award for best right midfielder.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo will collect donations for the victims of Santa Catarina.
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo has joined the campaign to collect donations for the homeless in Santa Catarina. The club is receiving donations at the main entrance of the club, at Avenida Borges de Medeiros, number 997, in the Lagoa neighborhood.
Donations can also be made in front of gate 18 of the Maracanã stadium, before the game against Goiás, where members of the Torcida Jovem and Raça Rubro-Negra fan groups will be collecting them.
Os
Flamengo players recorded testimonials asking for help for the victims of the tragedy and, on Sunday, they will enter the field with a banner supporting the homeless.
The death toll in Santa Catarina due to the rains has reached one hundred, according to a survey by Civil Defense. The state also has more than 78 homeless people in 14 cities that have already declared a state of public calamity.
Tardelli and Fábio Luciano escape punishment.\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo's legal department acted competently and, on Friday afternoon, secured the acquittal of defender Fábio Luciano and striker Diego Tardelli at the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD).
The two had been sent off against Cruzeiro last Sunday. Tardelli was accused of assaulting the
Carlos Eugênio Simon, while the defense attorney was accused of harassing Simon.
Even though they were acquitted, Fábio Luciano and Diego Tardelli will miss Sunday's game against Goiás, as they will have to serve a one-match automatic suspension.
'I'm sad to miss the game against Goiás, but happy to have been acquitted and be able to face Atlético/PR,' Fábio Luciano told the website.
.
If Flamengo doesn't compete in the Libertadores Cup, it will undergo restructuring.\ Gazeta Press \
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - A defeat against Goiás on Sunday, coupled with victories for Palmeiras and Cruzeiro, could leave Flamengo with no mathematical chance of competing for a spot in the Copa Libertadores going into the final round of the Brazilian Championship.
If this happens, the club will have to undergo a restructuring process as early as next week. President Márcio Braga has already stated that the football budget will be reduced if the club does not qualify for the Libertadores Cup.
Some players, however, are expected to leave Flamengo regardless of whether or not they qualify for the Libertadores Cup. This is the case for defender Dininho and midfielder Jônatas, both with high salaries and who haven't been getting much playing time under coach Caio Júnior.
In a press conference this Friday, Márcio Braga also defended Flamengo giving more opportunities to players developed in its youth academy. He cited examples such as...
Among those who could establish themselves in 2009, the manager mentioned midfielder Aírton, attacking midfielder Erick Flores, and defender Fabrício, who is on loan to Paraná until the end of the year.
Meanwhile, Márcio Braga confirmed that he is still in negotiations with Petrobras for the renewal of the contract that expires next year. The executive, who denied any intention on the part of the company to reduce the value of the current agreement, stated that the new agreement should be signed by January 2009.
Without mentioning the financial details of the new contract, Márcio Braga only revealed that the partnership is expected to be extended until the end of 2011. Flamengo and Petrobras will celebrate 25 years together in 2009, the longest-standing partnership in Brazilian football.
Léo Moura will not play against Goiás.\ Gazeta Press \
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Needing a win against Goiás to maintain good chances of qualifying for the Copa Libertadores, Flamengo will be without right-back Leonardo Moura for Sunday's match at the Maracanã.
This Friday morning, as had been happening in recent days, Léo Moura did not participate in the training session led by coach Caio Júnior at Gávea. After the session, the player was officially ruled out by Flamengo's medical staff.
Léo Moura is still recovering from a problem in his right knee, an injury suffered in training earlier in the week. Without his starting player, Caio Júnior again tested Luizinho in the Flamengo team, an option that will be repeated in Sunday's game.
Confirmed for Sunday is midfielder Aírton who, just like the day before, trained normally with his teammates, showing he is completely free of the pain that plagued his right knee earlier in the week. Also in midfield, Toró won the competition with Éverton and trained with the starters this Friday.
"It's a dangerous game and I prefer to start with Toró. I know we need the victory, we need to have the right attitude, but we can't let our guard down at the back, because we could get into trouble if we concede a goal," explained the Flamengo coach.
The confirmed absences are defender Fábio Luciano and...
Diego Tardelli is a substitute, both players were sent off against Cruzeiro. Therefore, Flamengo will face Goiás with the following lineup: Bruno, Luizinho, Ronaldo Angelim, Jaílton and Juan; Aírton, Toró, Kléberson and Ibson; Marcelinho Paraíba and Obina.
"It's a slightly different team without Léo Moura and Fábio, who are two leaders, but I believe we can have a great game with this formation with Luizinho and Toró," said Caio Júnior.
This Saturday morning, Flamengo will hold a recreational training session at Gávea, the team's final activity before the decisive match in their fight for a spot in next year's Libertadores Cup. Coach Caio Júnior anticipates difficulties against the Goiás team.
"Goiás is a strong team on the flanks with Victor and Júlio César, who attack a lot and scored many goals in the Brazilian Championship. They have a strong midfield, even though Ramalho and Fahel aren't playing, in addition to a very experienced attack," highlighted Caio Júnior, who managed Goiás in the first half of this year.
Tickets: The defeat last weekend against Cruzeiro seems to have cooled the...
Regarding Flamengo. Throughout the week, the demand for tickets for Sunday's game was very low. Therefore, the Maracanã – unlike most Flamengo games – is not expected to host a large crowd.
PELENET
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
It's confirmed. Leonardo Moura will indeed miss Flamengo's game against Goiás on Sunday at the Maracanã, for the 37th round of the Brazilian Championship. The right-back is still experiencing significant discomfort in his right knee and has been ruled out by the medical department. Luizinho will play in his place.
On the other hand, midfielder Airton has been confirmed. He had a similar injury to Léo Moura's, but managed to recover in time. Without defender Fábio Luciano, who is suspended, coach Caio Júnior will abandon the 3-5-2 formation and form the defense with Jaílton and Ronaldo Angelim.\ "It's very bad to play without Léo and Fábio, who are two leaders, but I have no choice. I'm going to adopt this formation with Jailton and Angelim at the back. I've already tested this and it worked very well against Coritiba, for example (a 5-0 thrashing at the Maracanã)," the coach assessed. \ In midfield, Toró is confirmed as a starter, winning the duel with the young attacking midfielder Everton. "He will have the role of marking in that sector, just like Airton, but he will also have to get forward. Everton will be an option," explained Caio.\ Therefore, Flamengo should take the field with: Bruno; Luizinho, Jailton, Ronaldo Angelim and Juan; Toró, Airton, Ibson and Kleberson; Marcelinho Paraíba and Obina. \
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
"This is a tragedy for our club." This phrase could have been uttered by the president of any of the teams close to relegation in the Brazilian Championship, but it actually came from the mouth of the president of the fifth-placed team in the competition. At Flamengo, the euphoria caused by the good campaign in the Brasileirão contrasts with the sadness of a drop in status.
Flamengo considers itself a five-time Brazilian champion, counting the controversial 1987 title (see editor's note below). If São Paulo confirms this year's national title, which could happen as early as this Sunday, it will reach its sixth trophy, surpassing the red-and-blacks. And that is precisely the disaster that Braga, Caio Júnior, Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Ibson, Obina & Co. failed to prevent.\ "The worst part is that we had the chance to avoid it, but we lost some games due to small details and gave São Paulo the chance to close the gap," assesses the director, who doesn't diminish the opponent's merit. "But we can't forget the quality of the São Paulo team, which showed balance throughout the competition and deserved it," added Márcio Braga.\ More rationally, Zico, an eternal idol and cornerstone in the club's history, isn't surprised by São Paulo's surge. And his explanation is as simple as possible: in modern football, structure and planning are fundamental to success. Despite his love for Flamengo, the star doesn't feel frustrated.\ "There's no such thing as frustration. After all, it's just football. And football is about results. São Paulo is the most structured club in Brazil today, it plans all its seasons, always keeps good players and, therefore, achieves so much success. But of course, that doesn't make it bigger than Flamengo. That will never happen. They are both great, period," he stated. \
.\ Currently an assistant coach to Caio Júnior, Andrade also helped build Flamengo's history during its most victorious years. A Flamengo midfielder in the 1980s, he rooted against São Paulo in the final rounds, but now sees no way the title could go anywhere other than to Morumbi.\ "Of course I was really rooting for them to stumble, but now I've thrown in the towel. They have 71 points and only two rounds left. Grêmio (second, with 66) will hardly close that gap, especially since São Paulo itself shouldn't allow it. Unfortunately, they will overtake Flamengo," he assessed.\ "Although this isn't good for our history, it has to be taken in stride. It's not the end of the world either. We put together a great team this year, but we lost by small margins. We have to continue with a good squad next year, correct a few things, and thus make up for lost ground and reach the sixth title," he added.\
With three Libertadores titles, three Club World Cups, and close to winning its sixth Brazilian Championship, São Paulo has definitively established itself as the national powerhouse. However, according to Andrade, this status doesn't make the Morumbi club bigger than Flamengo.\ "You can't measure it like that. Both have many glories and are among the biggest in Brazil, but to assess the greatness of a club, many criteria need to be considered. For example, nobody can erase the Flamengo fanbase, which is the largest in the country. We have fans outside of Rio de Janeiro and even in other countries. In short, what matters is that São Paulo and Flamengo are, without a doubt, among the greatest," emphasized the former player.\ History\ Led by Júnior, Flamengo won its fifth Brazilian championship in 1992. Since then, the Flamengo fans have never tired of boasting about the club's status as the most successful national champion. However, after administrations marked by amateurism and financial scandals, the club went into decline. The glories, routine in the 80s, became increasingly scarce. In contrast, clubs like São Paulo were preparing for professionalism, the future of football.\ Deluded by state titles, Flamengo fans spent years dwelling on the past and forgetting that the record they were so proud of could be broken in the blink of an eye. And football did not forgive their lack of competence and commitment. \ Well-structured and serving as an example for its rivals, São Paulo, which was already a three-time Brazilian champion at the beginning of this decade – in addition to being a two-time world champion and Libertadores champion – has grown each year and transformed itself into the "Giant" of the country. Today, São Paulo fans proudly boast their five national titles and aim for a likely sixth championship, which could be secured as early as next Sunday when the team faces Fluminense at Morumbi.\ Controversy over the polka-dot cup\ The "ball cup," a trophy intended for the first five-time Brazilian champion or the club that won the competition three times consecutively, generated controversy in 2007 when São Paulo secured its fifth national title. Since then, a dispute has begun with Flamengo, which won the green module of the Copa União in 1987 and considers itself the first five-time champion. However, the big problem is that the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) does not consider it so, but faced with so much pressure, it did not award the trophy to São Paulo, and the problem continues.\ EDITOR'S NOTE: \
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
For Sunday's match at 17 PM between Flamengo and Goiás, for the 37th round of the Brazilian Championship, the Flamengo team will be somewhat depleted. One of the changes will be in midfield. With Fábio Luciano suspended, coach Caio Júnior will opt for Toró, and thus the team will play in a 4-4-2 formation. According to Ibson, the coach made the right choice. Midfielder Everton was also vying for the spot.
"Everton is a midfielder who gets forward more, and Toró isn't just a marker. He knows how to play out from the back, and that gives us the certainty that we'll be very offensive," said Ibson, who praised the qualities of the Goiás team.\ "Goiás is a very good team, as it has two excellent full-backs, Vítor and Júlio César. The latter, in fact, has already played here at Flamengo. In addition to that, they have attacking players like Romerito, Paulo Baier and Iarley," he added.\ In fifth place in the Brazilian Championship, with 63 points, Flamengo is still fighting for one of the spots for the 2009 Copa Libertadores. Palmeiras, in fourth, has 64. The so-called G-4 also includes São Paulo (71), Grêmio (66) and Palmeiras (64). Aware of the importance of the match, Ibson asked for the fans' support.\ "There are two games left in the Brazilian Championship and we ask for the fans' support because it will be important for us to continue fighting for the Libertadores Cup. It's good to remember that this is the last game of the year at the Maracanã. It will be important to win to bring joy to our fans, who deserve it very much. I believe in this support despite the recent setbacks," he stated.\ Ibson celebrates nomination for the Brasileirão Player of the Year award.\ The midfielder was nominated on Thursday as one of the nominees for the Brasileirão Player of the Year award. The player will compete for the award along with Diego Souza (Palmeiras) and Tcheco (Grêmio), as the best right midfielder in the competition. He won the award last year. \ "I'm calm when I work, I always try to stay cheerful and willing to help everyone, no matter when it happens. It was with this calmness and the help of my family that I overcame difficult times and now I have the chance to compete again as the best in my position," the player stated. \
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
The last three glories of Flamengo can be kept on the shelf by the red-and-black fans. Fla Filmes, a production company focused exclusively on club-related matters, will release the DVD "3X Fla" next Wednesday (December 3rd), which tells the story of the Gávea team during their victories in the 2006 Copa do Brasil and the 2007 and 2008 State Championships. In total there will be three discs: "É Campeão" (We Are Champion), "Conte Comigo Mengão" (Count on Me Mengão) and "Vamos Flamengo" (Let's Go Flamengo).
The video will be sold in special packaging, featuring the colors of the Flamengo club, and the suggested retail price will be R$ 49,90. A preview of the film can be viewed at [address].
The DVD will only be sold on the official Flamengo store website.
.\ The history of the titles\ In 2006, Flamengo reached the final of the Copa do Brasil to face Vasco, their arch-rival. Predictions were for a difficult match, but that didn't materialize. In the first leg, Flamengo won 2-0, and in the second leg, 1-0, securing the trophy. \ The following year, the state championship final was against Botafogo. After two-two draws in the final matches, Flamengo won on penalties. In 2008, the rival was less exciting. With victories of 1-0 and 3-1, Flamengo won their second consecutive state championship against Botafogo. \
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Led by Diego Tardelli, the Flamengo players will help the victims of the floods and landslides that devastated Santa Catarina last week. The striker gathered his teammates and asked them all to donate their game jerseys to be auctioned off on a TV program in Balneário Camboriú.
Furthermore, the team will enter the Maracanã pitch on Sunday to face Goiás carrying a banner with the following message: "SOS Santa Catarina". In parallel with these actions, the 18 Flamengo fan clubs spread throughout the country will be collecting donations. \ "I know several cities in Santa Catarina well, and what's happening there makes us very sad. The least we can do is try to help in some way, and I spoke with the Flamengo players about the situation. They thought it was an excellent idea and will each donate a jersey so that we can raise funds and help those most in need," said Tardelli, through his press office. \ The tragedy\ According to the Civil Defense of Santa Catarina, the floods have already caused 99 deaths. Around 27 people are homeless and just over 51 are displaced. The state governor, Luiz Henrique (PMDB), declared a state of public calamity in 12 municipalities: Blumenau, Gaspar, Rio dos Cedros, Nova Trento, Camboriú, Benedito Novo, Pomerode, Luis Alves, Itajaí, Rodeio, Brusque, and Itapoá.\ In addition to the deaths and the enormous number of homeless, the tragedy also brought economic losses. The tourism and transportation sectors suffered a severe blow. The port of Itajaí, the second largest in container cargo traffic, is experiencing daily losses of approximately US$35 million (R$80 million).\ For those wishing to help the victims with monetary donations, the Civil Defense has provided three current accounts: at Banco do Brasil, branch 3582-3, current account 80.000-7; at Besc, branch 068-0, current account 80.000-0; and at Bradesco S/A - 237, branch 0348-4, current account 160.000-1. The legal entity name is Fundo Estadual da Defesa Civil, CNPJ - 04.426.883/0001-57. \
GLOBOESPORTE
Flamengo's defender turns 33 this Saturday and celebrates his nomination for the Brasileirão Player of the Year award.
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Ronaldo Angelim carries the ball during Flamengo's training session. His heart is in the service of Flamengo.
To convince her son to work in the fields and abandon his dream of becoming a football player, Dona Francisca Simões told Ronaldo Angelim that he had heart problems. He didn't believe her and continued on. On October 31, 2007, during a game...
against
The palpitations followed by discomfort kept him off the field and out of football for 12 days. \ The echocardiogram showed a slight change in the size of the heart. Angelim didn't panic, nor did he remember his mother's "prophecy." \ "I know it was stress, and I also ate too much at dinner. My psychological state greatly affects these things. When I think I'm going to get sick, I always do. The exam showed that my heart was a little bigger, I was on complete rest for 12 days and then I went back to playing normally," the defender stated.\
The scare is behind him and leaves no lasting scars. Last Wednesday, without much fanfare, he turned 33. In fact, this was his first birthday. His next is this Saturday.
"I was actually born on November 26th. But I was only registered on the 29th. That's why I only celebrate on this date," he explains. \ Since 2006 at Gávea, Ronaldo Angelim celebrates for the first time being nominated among the three best center-backs in the Brasileirão – Rever and Miranda are the others. Modestly, he believes the award has a lot to do with Flamengo's strength. \
"I'm at the right club. At Fortaleza, to be nominated you have to be a hero. In 2005, I finished fourth. I think my performance that year, if not better, was at least equal to this year," the defender analyzes.
The coach will leave the club on good terms, freeing the board to look for a replacement in 2009.
Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Caio Júnior runs his hand through his hair during Flamengo training.
Caio Júnior's dream at the helm of
It began in May, had nightmarish nuances, and has a date to end: December 7th, the day of the last round of the Brazilian Championship. Worn down by the frustrated fight for the sixth championship title and the relentless pressure from the club, the coach is packing his bags for Japan. \ The departure, in a way, facilitates a decision that was being made behind the scenes at the club: to change the team's leadership next season. Caio Júnior's contract with Flamengo ends at the end of 2009, but the amicable departure avoids the payment of a termination fee (R$ 600). \ The mutual desire for change at the turn of the year matured throughout the Brazilian Championship. Caio doesn't hide his disappointment with the way things have turned out at Flamengo. From being the undisputed leader at the start of the competition, he has had to deal with – and become irritated by – the constant leaks of information to the press and the ferocity of the criticism. \ "The situations I experienced at Flamengo will serve as a better benchmark when making decisions. That's what coaches like Muricy and Vanderlei have. All the problems will help me reflect more on future situations, on the decisions I will have to make in my coaching career," said Caio, commenting on the pressure cooker atmosphere he's experiencing at Flamengo.\
Caio's consistent performance in the Brazilian Championship, where he led the league for 11 rounds, opened up opportunities for him. He received an interesting offer from Vissel Kobe. At Flamengo, he even said he feels "a good kind of envy" of Zico because Zico only accepts jobs outside of Brazil. \ "I envy Zico in a good way. Because he can work abroad, where everything works correctly and safely," says the coach, who was quite upset by the incident in which a bomb was thrown during a Flamengo training session in August.\
Cuca and Renato are the dominant forces within the board of directors.
On the other hand, the board complained about the coach's lack of ability to resolve internal problems – the Jônatas case, for example. The heavy investment made for the Brazilian Championship made the title an obsession. Failure in this mission and the possibility of not even competing in the 2009 Libertadores accelerated the process.
Maintaining the strategy of focusing efforts on the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship to avoid communication breakdowns, the club's vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, has not yet begun official negotiations with a replacement. However, Cuca is his preferred choice. President Marcio Braga, on the other hand, prefers Renato Gaúcho, currently at Vasco, who is strongly associated with Flamengo. \ Mano Menezes was the only name that everyone agreed on. Because of his good relationship with the Corinthians board, there was only an informal inquiry to third parties about the possibility of him not continuing at the São Paulo club, a situation that was ultimately ruled out. \ Officially, Caio Júnior says that only the results of the final games will decide his future at Flamengo.\
The Rio de Janeiro team needs a victory to keep their hopes of returning to the top four alive. The Goiás team is in a stable position in the 2008 Brazilian Championship standings.
Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Still dreaming of a spot in the Libertadores Cup, Flamengo hosts Goiás in a crucial match at the Maracanã.
O
spent 11 rounds in the lead of
and ten others in the top four. But any result other than a victory this Sunday at 5 pm against the
A loss at the Maracanã could end the team's chances of securing a spot in the...
In 2009, a consolation prize for a team that declared itself a title contender from the start. \ GLOBOESPORTE.COM will be covering the game in real time, for the penultimate round of the national tournament, and Premiere will be broadcasting it live.\ The opponent, in seventh place and guaranteed a spot \
There's little left to aim for in the final stretch. Except, of course, for the desire to spoil Flamengo's party.
In fifth place with 63 points, Flamengo experienced a strange week. Engaged in a battle against referee Carlos Eugênio Simon, the board relegated the defeat to the...
and the consequent relegation of the Libertadores area to second place. \ In the day-to-day life of the club, a surprising end-of-party atmosphere hangs in the air. While coach Caio Júnior appears worn out and under intense pressure, training sessions were overshadowed by apathy. One of the few to raise the flag of determination was defender Ronaldo Angelim. \
Marcelinho, Caio Júnior and Ibson during Flamengo training.
"We can't falter. It's a game where there won't be a second chance. If we lose, we're out," says the defender. \ And rightly so. With two games left in the Brasileirão, the gap to Cruzeiro (third) and \
(The fourth) is one point. Winning isn't enough. It will also be necessary to hope for the rivals' losses. The miners visit the
And the São Paulo team will travel to Salvador to duel with...
. \ The fans were also more excited before. Just over ten thousand tickets had been sold by Friday. The board's expectation is around 30, after all, it will be the team's farewell at the Maracanã.\
Coach Caio Júnior has two players unavailable for selection in the starting lineup. Suspended, Fábio Luciano will be replaced by Toró. As a result, Jaílton will move back to central defense, and the team will revert to a 4-4-2 formation. At right-back, Leo Moura has not recovered from knee pain and will be replaced by Luizinho.
Helium Mystery
The Esmeraldino team faces another challenge away from home, since in the last round they drew 0-0 with...
, at Canindé. Coach Hélio dos Anjos is keeping the starting lineup a secret. \ The coach can maintain the 3-6-1 formation, or he can be daring and field Alex Terra and Iarley in attack. However, against a Flamengo team desperately fighting for a spot in the Copa Libertadores, it's likely that Goiás will field a defensive lineup. Only midfielders Ramalho and Fahel, who are serving automatic suspensions, are unavailable. \ In defense, Rafael Marques may lose his position to Paulo Henrique, but João Paulo, who has been standing out in training, could surprise and take the spot. Vítor, the club's representative in the Brasileirão Best Player award, and Júlio César are confirmed at right and left back, respectively.\
The midfield is the most complicated area. Lusmar, Fábio Bahia, Paulo Baier, Romerito, and Fernando are competing for four spots. However, the young Lusmar is expected to be a substitute, as is the striker Alex Terra.
The organization explains its position on the controversy involving the referee's name and takes a jab at Flamengo.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
Contrary to what Carlos Eugênio Simon himself stated, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) did not apologize to the referee after the release of new images of the incident involving Diego Tardelli and Leo Fortunato in the match between
e
, last Sunday, for the 36th round of
Flamengo fans are asking for a penalty, which was not awarded by referee Simon, in the play. \ "Relegated" to Série B, the referee will officiate the match between América-RN and Corinthians on Saturday, and was absent from the penultimate round of the Brasileirão. In an official statement released on the CBF website, the president of the Arbitration Commission, Sérgio Corrêa, reiterates his confidence in Simon and says he understands that there was a foul in the play. However, he says that "it is not the entity's prerogative to apologize to any referee" and takes a dig at Flamengo by saying that this "should come from whoever expressed themselves excessively and in a reprehensible manner".\
Check out the full note:
Tricolor could be crowned champion in all youth categories this year.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
e
They will decide the title of the 2008 State Youth Championship this Saturday, November 29th, at the Vale das Laranjeiras Training Center in Xerém. \ If the Tricolor team wins, they will unify the main titles in the youth categories of Rio de Janeiro football this year, having already won the Junior State Championship in the first half of the year and the U15 Championship against... \
, last Wednesday. \ Leading the final four-team group of the Championship with 11 points and a goal difference of six, Fluminense faces Flamengo, second place with the same 11 points and a goal difference of four, needing only a draw, since they had a better campaign than their rival in the final phase. The match will be valid for the last round of the competition.\
The state titles of 2007 and 2008 and the Copa do Brasil of 2006 are remembered in '3X FLA', which will be available for purchase starting Wednesday.
Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
With no chance of becoming Brazilian champion, the fan of
At least they can reminisce about their recent triumphs during the holiday season. Next Wednesday, the club's marketing department, in partnership with Fla Filmes, will launch the "3X FLA" box set, featuring DVDs of the club's official films.
of 2006 and of
from 2007 and 2008.
The film "Vamos, Flamengo", about the 2008 State Championship, is the big new addition to the '3X FLA' box set.
Cover of the '3X FLA' box set, which contains DVDs about Flamengo's latest achievements.
The product, produced in a limited edition of one thousand units, will be sold at the club's official store for R$ 49,90 and features behind-the-scenes images, provided by Fla TV, and interviews with the key figures behind the victories. For 2009, directors Diogo Dahl and Raphael Vieira plan to also release a film telling the story of the controversial 87 Copa União.
The first two films in the series, "É Campeão - Copa do Brasil 2006" and "Conte Comigo Mengão - Carioca 2007", were shown at Cine Glória in January. The latest release is "Vamos Flamengo - Carioca 2008", which features testimonials from Leo Moura, Fábio Luciano, Ronaldo Angelim, Juan, Toró, Diego Tardelli, Obina, and physical trainer Ronaldo Torres.
The coach points out that knowing the right time is more important than simply promoting the player to the professional team.
Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Caio Júnior coaches Marcelinho Paraíba during training at Gávea.
The formula for success in 2009 has already been given by Marcio Braga:
The problem now is figuring out who to bet on. This Friday, Caio Júnior echoed the president's "advice" and said that more important than promoting the player to the professional team is knowing how to do it, so as not to risk burning out the athlete. \ - I see that the more players from the youth academy the team develops, the better it is in terms of financial return. We have to try to develop them, but it's not that easy. We have to be careful. \
It has a history of developing players. I think some of them will succeed next year, like Erick, Thiago Salles, and Fabrício, who's at Paraná...
The Flamengo coach points out that good performance in the lower divisions does not guarantee a place in the professional team, and promises to test new young players in the final week of training this season. \ - It's a funnel. Very few are used in the professional team because of the pressure. This happened with Erick on a few occasions and he was unlucky that things didn't go well. You have to be careful. The beginning is fundamental. We have to put them in at the right time. I've done everything, I've been observing, and we're going to do some training sessions with the youth team in this final stretch. \ In the current team, Ibson is the only starting player who came up through Flamengo's youth system.\
Leonardo played for two years with the Goiás team and praises the duo Vítor and Paulo Baier Cruzeiro.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
If on the field defender Leonardo will not be able to help the
Next Sunday, outside of the game, the player became a spy for coach Caio Júnior. He played for Goiás for two years and lists the main dangers. \ "Our team needs to win at all costs, and that's why we can't give space to two players in particular: Paulo Baier and Vítor. If Romerito recovers from his injury and plays, he also needs to be closely monitored," says the 31-year-old player. \ Signed in March, Leonardo has played little this year. With the final games of the Brazilian Championship in mind, he prefers not to create controversy because of the limited opportunities he's had. \
"I was actually hoping to play more, however this isn't the time for that kind of discussion. The important thing now is that we all focus on the last two games to get two wins. Only then will we have a chance to go to the Libertadores. I do my part and try to help in any way I can," the defender stated.
The midfielder will be responsible for marking, alongside Aírton, and will allow the number 7 to advance against Goiás.
Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Toró is confirmed in the starting lineup against Goiás to allow Ibson to advance.
Caio Júnior tested Everton, but the chosen one to inherit Fábio Luciano's spot in the match against...
Sunday, at 17 PM, at Maracanã, for the penultimate round of the
It was Toró. The midfielder will form the midfield alongside Aírton, Kleberson and Ibson against Esmeraldino, with Jaílton being moved to the defense. \ According to the coach of \
This is an alternative to free up Ibson, who has been a standout in recent matches, for the attack. \ - Aírton and Toró mark and then go forward. Everton stays as an option for later in the game. I prefer to start like this. It's a dangerous game. We're well served and free up Ibson, Kleberson, and Marcelinho.\
Caio Júnior is betting on the team's positive history to deliver a strong performance against Goiás. \ - I feel confident because we've played some great games with this formation. Including against Coritiba (a 5-0 victory), when we played very well. \ With 63 points, Flamengo is in fifth place in the Brasileirão, one point behind Cruzeiro and Palmeiras, who are third and fourth respectively.\
Athletes were judged by the STJD (Superior Court of Sports Justice) for their expulsion in the game against Cruzeiro.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
Both Fábio Luciano and Diego Tardelli escaped punishment at the Superior Court of Sports Justice (STJD). The two players from
They were judged on Friday afternoon and were acquitted of the expulsion charge in the game against Cruzeiro last Sunday. \ Despite the favorable ruling, they are out of Sunday's match against Goiás because they have to serve their automatic suspension. Fábio and Tardelli were sent off for complaining about an alleged penalty not awarded in the final minute of the match (watch the video of the incident on the side). \
In the official match report, referee Carlos Eugênio Simon stated that he was headbutted by the striker and insulted by the Flamengo captain. With video evidence, Flamengo's defense, led by lawyer Michel Assef Filho, managed to disprove the accusation and confirm that Tardelli did not assault the referee.
Fábio Luciano appeared in court, testified, and said that he only questioned Simon about the errors in his refereeing. Therefore, the pair will return to Flamengo for the final round against Atlético-PR.
The full-back has not recovered from a knee problem and Luizinho is replacing him.
Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Leo Moura gives an interview during Flamengo training.
On his fiancée Perlla's birthday, right-back Leo Moura received a poisoned chalice gift. The medical department of
He assessed him this Friday morning and decided to rule him out of the match against...
, this Sunday. \ The player kicked the ground during Wednesday's training session and suffered a sprained right knee. Although there is no serious injury, Leo has been limping quite a bit at Gávea in recent days. \
Coach Caio Júnior confirmed Luizinho's inclusion at right-back. He explained the decision. \ "With Luizinho, the team gains more strength in marking, and I can free up Kleberson and Ibson," he declares. \
The president says he's not against foreign players, praises Aírton and Erick Flores, and asks for the signing of a major idol for next season.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
On numerous occasions, Marcio Braga requested the signing of a player "with the Argentine spirit." Therefore, the president's reaction was surprising.
Last Thursday, in an interview with SporTV (see the video), he declared that a "foreign legion" doesn't work at the club. This Friday, however, the president clarified the confusion. \ "When I referred to the foreign legion, I meant that it was a team basically made up of young players, not athletes who come from outside the club and don't identify with it. It would never be against an Argentinian team, for example," he declares. \ Marcio recalled the great Flamengo teams of the 40s, 50s, 80s and 90s. He highlighted that most of them had players developed in the youth divisions, and that starting in 2009 he will implement a return to this philosophy. \ "We need a great idol, a star. It could be Ronaldo, for example, and a team made up mostly of young players. About six or seven who came up through the club's youth system. We have a defender at Paraná, Fabrício, who they say is the new Juan. He has to come back. The next few years will be complicated for the world economy, and we need to look inward at home," says the president. \ To avoid any awkwardness with the athletes of the current squad, Marcio Braga points out that there are some who have been identified, such as captain Fábio Luciano. \
"He's one of us," he summarizes. \ And two players in particular fascinate him. \ "Have you seen 18-year-old Aírton? How he plays! What a midfielder! Erick, on the other hand, has a skinny style, like a matchstick. But he's very lively and really goes for it. For them, the shirt doesn't weigh them down," analyzes the president.\
Players will wear SOS Santa Catarina banners in Sunday's match against Goiás, and embassies will receive donations.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
Flamengo players pose with the banner after training.
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The club also expressed solidarity with the serious situation in Santa Catarina after last week's storms. In Sunday's game against Goiás, the players will enter the field with a banner reading "SOS Santa Catarina," and the Flamengo fan clubs – 18 in total – are mobilized to collect donations for the homeless. The club is also accepting food, clothing, and medicine at its headquarters in Gávea (address: Av. Borges de Medeiros, 997, Lagoa).
The players recorded a statement asking for help for the inhabitants of Santa Catarina.
There are also specific actions. Player Diego Tardelli asked, his teammates complied and donated official jerseys to be auctioned in Balneário Camboriú-SC. The striker's wife, Linda Vanessa, is from Santa Catarina. \ - I know several cities in Santa Catarina well, and what's happening there makes us very sad. The least we can do is try to help in some way, and I spoke with the Flamengo players about the situation. They thought it was an excellent idea and will each donate a jersey so that we can raise funds and help those most in need.\
THROW
Coach says that in 2009 homegrown players will be useful to Flamengo.
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo's president, Marcio Braga, said the team needed more homegrown players. Caio Júnior agreed with the president's opinion.