The Globe
Joel returns to Fla for the 4th time with the excitement of a beginner
Technician, who now even uses a laptop, can't hold back tears during presentation
Photo caption: JOEL SANTANA gives an emotional interview in his fourth stint as Flamengo coach
Márcio Tavares
In his pajamas at home, watching a movie on TV, it took less than half an hour to replace Ney Franco at Flamengo. In an emotional press conference, where he struggled to compose his cracking voice, veteran Joel Santana mixed emotion with optimistic phrases to describe how he had been hired in the early hours of yesterday morning, with the mission of once again pulling Flamengo out of the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship.
"I'm emotional, yes. Men cry too. With joy. I'm grateful; few coaches have this privilege, this right, to manage Flamengo for the fourth time. I was at home in my pajamas watching TV when Kleber Leite (vice president of football) stopped by to talk to me. It was very brief. I hope to have everyone's support in this new challenge. It will work out. We have no time to waste. We just have to get things done. The decisions here have to be made yesterday," said Joel, whose rivals were Abel and Geninho.
Jônatas agrees to return and Fla tries to sign a defender
Some of these urgent decisions are related to reinforcements. One is the return of Jônatas on loan until June 2008. The other is the signing of a defender, which should be finalized today.
"I don't think our group is that bad. But you can't open the newspaper every day and see Flamengo down there. I know the team could be in a better position. But right now, I have to think about moving forward slowly. I can't think big; I'm swamped, let's say," Joel assessed.
At 58, it's clear that Joel Natalino Santana manages to maintain a youthful appearance. Not a single gray hair, and his time inactive hasn't given him any extra pounds compared to when he managed Fluminense, his last club in Rio. But it's not just in his personal life that the coach tries to keep up with new trends. Joel arrived at Gávea carrying a laptop bag, suggesting he's swapped his old clipboard for new computer equipment. But...
"I'm a bit old-fashioned and bit modern. I take advantage of what's useful and what's pleasant. If I need something new, I use a laptop. If I have to, I use a clipboard. But if I need to solve our situation with a notepad, I'll use a notepad," he said, laughing.
At Joel's request, he kept the goalkeeping coach brought by Ney Franco, with whom he had lunch yesterday and had a great impression. He suggested hiring only physical trainer Ronaldo Torres. His assistant will be Andrade, with whom he had a good relationship in 2005. He was delighted and couldn't hide his joy.
- We get injured so much in football that it's impossible not to get emotional at a moment like this...
The other side of the coin was lived by Ney Franco:
- When I saw the same group of people who protested in Gávea and Juiz de Fora in the hotel lobby in São Paulo, I felt like I couldn't continue. But I don't hold any grudges.
Fernando Calazans
Flamengo, when will we know your fate? Oh, it will take a while too.
That a club of its magnitude needs to free itself from the "small-team" appearance it's displaying on the field, with small-team players, small-team tactics, and an Ipatinga mentality—I have no doubt whatsoever. The blame doesn't lie solely with the coach, far from it. It's even more so with the board, the entire football department, and the presidency, who accept and execute the most absurd signings, made in droves—the series of limping players who now wear the same jersey worn by Zizinho and Zico. It's a disgrace.
The board, much more than any coach, has an obligation to understand Flamengo and to honor Flamengo.
Renato Mauricio Prado
And, at Fla, Ney Franco was unfairly dismissed, in my opinion, without having time to show his work with slightly more talented players in midfield - such as Roger and Ibson.
Joel Santana returns to Gávea once again, amidst the distrust of many (I received countless emails from angry red-and-black fans yesterday), but I think he deserves, at the very least, a vote of confidence - and gratitude.
After all, he was the one who managed the miracle of saving Flamengo from a relegation that seemed certain in 2005.
Sports Journal
Fla presents Joel and announces the return of Jônatas
Leo Schabbach
Jônatas, currently at Espanyol, is close to returning
The last few weeks have been full of returns to Flamengo. After Ibson, it was coach Joel Santana's turn to return to Gávea, and midfielder Jônatas will likely be the next to make the move. Yesterday, at the new coach's presentation, vice president of football Kleber Leite confirmed Flamengo's interest in the player and assured that, in addition to an official offer having been made to Espanyol, the chances of a return are good.
Jônatas' return, like Joel Santana's, reminds fans of the miracle of 2005, when Flamengo performed spectacularly in the final rounds and managed to escape relegation. This year, however, the prospects are not just to escape the dire situation in the Brazilian Championship, but also to try to secure a spot in the Copa Libertadores. Coach Joel Santana was clear about his objectives at the press conference and said he arrives to make decisions.
"Let's get our act together first. Get our house in order and build the team the fans are waiting for to try and get some wins. Only at the end will we know what was harder: nine games left, like in 2005, or more than 20," said the coach, referring to the "miracle" he performed, winning six and drawing three of the club's last nine Brazilian Championship matches. He also commented on the current squad and said it's time for something to be done for the Rubro-Negro to turn things around in the competition.
"The club can't be in the situation it's in. I'll make whatever decisions are necessary so we can recover in the Brazilian Championship," he stated, hinting that, under his leadership, what many called the "Cheese Bread Republic" may be on its last legs.
Meanwhile, Flamengo is pursuing another major reinforcement. Midfielder Jônatas, who had a stellar run with the club, is expected to return to Gávea on a one-year loan. Kleber Leite assured that everything has been agreed with the player. Furthermore, Eduardo Uram, Jônatas' agent, stated that talks with Espanyol are well underway and that the player's return is almost certain.
Options for Joel
Although Flamengo is in a very bad situation in the Brazilian Championship, the new Flamengo coach arrives at a time when he has the opportunity to start a strong campaign. This is because, in addition to finding Roger fit to play 90 minutes, he will also have the debuts of midfielder Ibson and Argentine striker Maxi Biancucchi. Furthermore, since Flamengo will not play in the next round, the coach will have a week to begin giving the team a new look.
Another advantage Joel Santana will have is that Flamengo, with the Pan American Games over, will begin playing the postponed matches. Because of this, the team is likely to have the same number of games as the rest of the team and, if they perform well, they could finally recover in the competition. Just as he did during his time with Flamengo in 2005, given all these conditions, Joel could even perform another miracle at Gávea.
However, this year's group is very different from that of 2005. From that team that managed to avoid relegation to the Second Division, only goalkeeper Diego, defender Rodrigo Arroz, right-back Leonardo Moura and striker Obina remain in Gávea.
Flamengo negotiates with Fábio Luciano
Fabio Luciano is 32 years old and is 1,90m tall.
Flamengo is interested in defender Fábio Luciano, a former Corinthians player who was playing in European football last season, Globoesporte.com reported on Tuesday. Vice president of football Kléber Leite reportedly spoke with the player and his agent months ago and is reportedly resuming negotiations. The goal is to sign him by the end of the year.
Fábio Luciano is the defender whom the vice president referred to as "a member of the Brazilian national team with a successful spell at every club he played for."
The defender was born on April 29, 1975, in Vinhedo, São Paulo. He broke into professional football with Guarani, then moved on to Ponte Preta and played for two seasons with Corinthians. During this time, he was loaned to Internacional, returning to Parque São Jorge at the request of Carlos Alberto Parreira. In 2003, he was signed by Fernebahçe of Turkey, where he won two national titles. His last club was Cologne of Germany.
The player is recovering from a pubic problem and is also of interest to Cruzeiro.
Jônatas signs with Fla
Jônatas's deal with Flamengo came sooner than expected. The player's agent confirmed the transfer to the Rio de Janeiro club on loan until mid-2008. All that's missing is a release from Espanyol, the club he currently plays for.
The signing is part of several changes made by Urubu to avoid relegation, along with the arrival of Roger, Ibson, Maxi Biancucchi and the departure of Ney Franco.
Léo Medeiros comments on the change of coaches at Fla
Coach Ney Franco's dismissal came as no surprise. The Flamengo team's poor performances in the Brasileirão and its uncomfortable relegation zone worsened the coach's situation. For defensive midfielder Léo Medeiros, the lack of results brought down the Flamengo manager.
"Unfortunately, it happened, but we're all used to it. When the result doesn't happen, the coaching staff is blamed. We were playing well, but we weren't winning," the player said in an interview with Rádio Bandeirantes.
The midfielder hopes that Joel can bring the team back to the competition.
"I hope whoever arrives is competent enough to get the team winning. A coaching change is designed to shake up the entire squad," he says.
Sergio Du Bocage
Here's What You Wanted!
Better to prevent
Sergio Du Bocage bocage@jsports.com.br
In 2005, Joel Santana left Flamengo to work in Japan. That year, he became a fan favorite and was promised by the board that he would receive a bust at Gávea for avoiding relegation. Now, almost two years later, Joel is back to replace Ney Franco. Last time, there were nine games left. Now there are still 26. Apparently, the fear of relegation is already gripping Flamengo.
I like Joel and think he can provide a solution to the biggest problem: the defense. With Roger, Ibson, Renato Augusto, and Obina, the midfield can be fixed. But with the two fullbacks not marking and the center-backs still struggling, the defense has been the weak point. Bruno and Diego can attest to that.
This challenge will be a good opportunity for Joel Santana to prove his worth nationally. He has several state titles, but only the 2000 Brazilian Championship, with Vasco, when he took over the team in the final stretch, replacing Oswaldo de Oliveira. As he himself claims, he won the Rio de Janeiro championship in 1986 because Lazaroni took over Flamengo with the team already assembled, the same can be said about Vasco in 2000. He's the one in the photo, of course, but most of us remember Joel, in Brasileiros, as the one who comes in to save a team.
Joel's time at Fluminense this year wasn't satisfactory. But that doesn't seem to be the case at Flamengo. So, let's hope things work out. Botafogo is top, Vasco is in the top four, and Fluminense is already in the Copa Libertadores. All that's left is for Flamengo to get going.
Ruy Guilherme
Is Ney Franco to blame?
It's proven: what Flamengo lacked was talent in midfield. Roger made his debut in the second half, and the red-and-black team drew 2-2 with Corinthians after trailing 2-0. While he had some breathing room, Débora Secco's boyfriend gave the impression he'd returned to Rio eager to play. The board couldn't handle the pressure from some of the fans and fired coach Ney Franco. I noticed that Souza and Obina can't play together. The problem is positioning; they were jumbled up in attack, marking each other for almost the entire match. With a new coach, Roger at full strength, and only one center forward, will Flamengo improve its performance?
O Dia
Flamengo is close to repatriating Jônatas
Kléber Leite says negotiations could be concluded soon
Luciano Paiva
Rio - In addition to bringing in a new coach and supporters Roger and Ibson, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, confirmed on Monday that the club is close to closing negotiations to repatriate defensive midfielder Jônatas, who, after winning the 2005 Copa do Brasil, transferred to Espanyol in Spain. However, the player has failed to establish himself in European football and has had disciplinary issues.
According to the director, the negotiation was being brokered by the player's agent, Eduardo Uram, and was not revealed to encourage other clubs to pique their interest in the player. Flamengo made an offer of around R$2 million, and Jônatas would remain with the club until June 2008.
"Jônatas is a player who grew up in Flamengo's youth academy, and we've been trying to sign him for a while now. It wasn't just a one-off. Things are now underway, everything is agreed upon, and Espanyol knows the best option is to release him. His agent has been fantastic. We're just waiting for the Spanish club to decide on a mechanism so we can finalize this deal," said Kléber Leite in an interview with Rádio Tupi.
Still on the subject of reinforcements, the director stated that the club is looking for and observing the signing of a defender for the remainder of the Brazilian Championship.
"There's something, and we want to try to sign another player for this sector. I believe that Flamengo will soon have a team of the size the fans deserve. Ibson can already make his debut, as can Messi's Argentine cousin. I can guarantee that with the arrival of Jônatas, we will have the best midfield in Brazil," said Kléber Leite.
Joel: 'Instead of the statue, I want gratitude'
Joel Santana returns to Gávea, once again, with the mission of recovering the team, in second to last place
Marluci Martins
Rio - Joel Santana was at home, in his pajamas, watching a comedy on television, when he was invited, in the early hours of yesterday, to replace Ney Franco at Flamengo. This will be his fourth stint at the club, and this time with a new addition to his traditional clipboard: a modern laptop, which he never left behind yesterday, during his presentation to the press in Gávea.
The laughter he'd shared while watching the film at home before the invitation gave way to tears yesterday. Joel, overcome with emotion, cried twice during the press conference, when he made a promise: "First, we'll get out of this second-to-last spot. Then, we'll think bigger. We'll start flying," he said.
Before speaking with Joel, vice president of football Kléber Leite called two coaches: Abel Braga and Geninho. He opted for the one who, in 1996, had led Flamengo to the state title, undefeated. His stint at the club in 1998 wasn't as successful, and the coach was eventually fired. In 2005, however, Joel returned to Flamengo with the mission of preventing the team from being relegated in the final stretch of the Brasileirão—in nine games, he won six and drew three.
Under his leadership, Flamengo recorded 62 wins, 31 draws, and 18 losses. They scored 193 goals and conceded 107. Joel, who starts work today, will be assisted by fitness coach Ronaldo Torres. And Andrade will be his assistant.
EMOTION\ “Men also cry, and it is better to cry for joy than for sadness. I hope to have everyone's support and, once again, luck, to achieve our goals.”\
CHALLENGE\ “We are all bothered by the lack of smiles so common among fans. The important thing is to get the team right. Let's see if we can fit this team together.”\
THE GROUP\ “From what I see, I think the group is good. But I can't talk about something that I'm only seeing on paper for now. It's hard to believe that Flamengo is in second-to-last place.”\
2005\ “It's difficult to make comparisons and only at the end of the championship will we know if this year's challenge is more difficult than that of 2005. Two years ago, the group immediately gave the answer.”\
STATUE\ "When we escaped relegation, they promised to build a statue in my honor, but for me, the most important thing of all is that I left here and the fans haven't forgotten what was done. Instead of a statue, I prefer the gratitude that lasts for the rest of my life."\
NEY FRANCO\ "He was kind enough to tell me everything that's going on. This will make my job easier, since we won't have preseason."\
ROGER\ “With him and Íbson, we'll improve. Roger came on well in the second half against Corinthians. He brought rhythm and creativity.”\
NOTEBOOK\ "We're learning, right? I'm a bit old-fashioned, but that doesn't mean I'm not a modern guy. I'll combine business with pleasure. When I need to use the clipboard, I'll use it. When I need the computer, I'll use it. If we're going to win the game, we'll even use a pad, a little piece of paper. What can't happen is Flamengo finishing second to last."\
OBJECTIVE\ “I don’t even know the group yet, but since we’re talking about Flamengo, anything can happen.”\
In farewell, the sorrow for an episode
At a lunch yesterday with directors and Joel Santana, Ney Franco recounted to his successor all the problems and virtues of Flamengo that passed through his hands. While it served to demonstrate that Ney didn't leave through the back door, the lunch didn't, however, mask a hint of resentment from the former coach.
"I just thought that, on that Monday (after the loss to Grêmio), there was no need for that fan demonstration. They opened the doors to that demonstration. Even I lost heart," Ney Franco vented, without ruling out the possibility that someone in the boardroom had facilitated the organized fan base's access to the club for the protest they were targeted with. Ney didn't contest his dismissal. He even considered it fair.
"As a coach, I wasn't getting results. I can't hold anyone responsible for what happened. I leave feeling at peace," he assured. "The postponement of the games due to the Pan American Games set us back a bit. We had games in hand and were in an uncomfortable position in the standings."
The coach won't take anything from Flamengo other than the rights of any laid-off employee. His contract, which had been extended until May of next year, wasn't even on paper.
"My contract with Flamengo was verbal and there was no termination fee. All that's left is the usual formalities for my release. I'm leaving with new friends," said Ney Franco, who has an offer to work in Japan next year.
Sports Gazette
Joel is presented at Gávea. Jônatas may return.\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Called in once again to try to put out the fire at Gávea, coach Joel Santana was introduced by Flamengo early Monday evening. Before giving a press conference at the club's headquarters, Joel had lunch with Ney Franco, the former Flamengo coach, from whom he gathered information about the squad. "It was a great conversation. He's a very kind person and explained everything that's been happening with the team. When I left the last one, I did the same thing and spoke with the incoming coach, Valdir Espinosa. I think this is good and makes it easier for the incoming coach. I wish Ney the best of luck, and we're here to continue his work," commented the new Flamengo manager.
When asked if he would change the squad made up of many players recommended by Ney Franco, Joel preferred caution, despite making it clear that Flamengo will need to change its course to recover in the Brazilian Championship.
"I don't know the players, and I have to get to know this group first before making a decision. But something has to be done, because Flamengo can't continue in this situation. Decisions have to be made as quickly as possible," analyzed Joel Santana, who denied that he had been approached by Flamengo before Sunday's game against Corinthians. The coach revealed that his agreement with the board took place in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Jônatas could return - During Joel Santana's presentation, vice president of football Kléber Leite confirmed that Flamengo could bring in midfielder Jônatas, who left the club last year to play for Espanyol in Spain. Flamengo has already formalized an offer to sign the player on loan for a one-year term.
"This is a process that has been going on for some time and is close to being finalized. It's just a matter of time, and with faith in God, things will be finalized," he commented. The Rio de Janeiro club is also considering signing another defender, as its defensive system has been consistently lacking in the Brazilian Championship.
On his way out, Ney Franco thanks Flamengo for his chance\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - After a 2-2 draw with Corinthians this Sunday at Morumbi Stadium in the 15th round of the Brazilian Championship, coach Ney Franco resigned as Flamengo's coach. The coach left Gávea thanking Flamengo for the opportunity he had with the Rio de Janeiro club. "I leave with the feeling that I did a good job, as I won three titles and developed important players like Renato Augusto, who is now the club's most valued player. And I have to thank Kléber Leite, who took a chance on me last year," commented Ney Franco, who was coaching Ipatinga when he was hired by Flamengo.
The debut of the new coach of the Rio de Janeiro club, Joel Santana, will take place next weekend, when Flamengo faces Santos at Vila Belmiro. The coach is expected to field midfielder Roger in the starting lineup for this match, as he performed well against Corinthians last Sunday.
Ney Franco's final game as Flamengo manager was unavailable to club president Márcio Braga, who revealed an unexpected problem this Sunday. "I didn't watch the game because I was returning from Teresópolis to watch the home game and my car broke down on the Linha Vermelha highway, near a dangerous favela. We were there for about 40 minutes, and it was a traumatic experience, especially for my wife and children," commented the president of the Rio de Janeiro club.
PeléNet
Ibson sees career advancement by swapping Europe for Brazil
The midfielder is taking the opposite path to that dreamed of by athletes his age, but he doesn't consider leaving Porto-POR to return to Flamengo a step backwards.
Guilherme Toscano, special for Pelé.Net
RIO DE JANEIRO - At 23, midfielder Ibson took the opposite path to that dreamed of by players in general, especially those his age: he left European football to return to Brazil. However, anyone who thinks the athlete feels he took a step backward in his career by accepting the offer to leave Porto-POR for Flamengo is mistaken.
First, because he was sidelined by the Portuguese team due to injury problems and the team's current coach, Jesualdo Ferreira. The coach preferred fellow Portuguese Paulo Assunção and Argentine Lucho González (a fan favorite), two players who play the same position as the defensive midfielder. Thus, it was difficult for the Brazilian to get a chance on the team.
Furthermore, Ibson knows that Flamengo is a great showcase. So much so that he received an offer to play for Porto-POR after excelling at the club, despite the team's poor performance in the 2004 Brazilian Championship. Therefore, the athlete preferred to return to the club where he began his career rather than move to teams in Europe's second tier.
In this interview with Pelé.Net, Ibson comments on this and other topics.
Pelé.Net - Every player's dream is to play in Europe. Is returning to Brazil a step backward?\ Ibson - No, it was a step forward, a smart choice. Flamengo is a huge and admired club throughout Brazil and the world. I just hope to have a good Brazilian Championship to live up to the fans' expectations of me.\
Pelé.Net - But did you receive European offers?\ Ibson - I had many other offers, but I'll leave that to my agent, who is my father, to decide. When Flamengo's interest came up, I didn't think twice. I even received offers from Spain and Germany, although I don't remember which clubs.\
Pelé.Net - Diego, formerly of Santos, struggled to establish himself at Porto and excelled at Werder Bremen-GER. You didn't stand out either. What happens to the Brazilians at Porto?\ Ibson - There are no adaptation problems. It depends on several factors, including the coach. Everyone has their own way of dealing with players. In 2005, I had six very good months, playing 15 games in a row. In my second year there, I also did well, even winning the championship. I only had difficulties this year, when the coach changed and I had some problems with him (Jesualdo Ferreira). I also suffered some injuries.\
Pelé.Net - Flamengo is struggling again in the Brazilian Championship, and the fans have already protested at Gávea. Have you diagnosed the problem yet?\ Ibson - It's complicated. I went through a similar situation in 2004, when we fought to avoid relegation, and that was also a great team. Football is beautiful because of that; the best team doesn't always win; it's full of surprises.\
Pelé.Net - Given Flamengo's current situation, much of the hope for a return to form lies with you. How do you handle the pressure from the stands? Ibson - I'm really looking forward to making my debut in the Flamengo jersey. The pressure will be greater, that's natural, but I'm used to it; I know how things work here. I'm at ease.
Name: Ibson Barreto da Silva\ Position: Defensive Midfielder\ Date of Birth: 07/11/1983\ Location: Niterói-RJ\ Height: 1,77m\ Weight: 73kg\ Clubs:\ 2003 to 2005 - Flamengo\ 2005 to 2007 - Porto-POR\ 2007 - Flamengo\ Titles:\ 2004 - Rio de Janeiro State\ 2004 - Guanabara Cup\ 2005/2006 - Portuguese Championship\ 2006 - Portuguese Cup\ 2006/2007 - Portuguese Championship\
Joel promises a lot of work to keep Flamengo out of the relegation zone
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Unemployed since leaving Fluminense in April—following the club's worst-ever campaign in the Rio State Championship—coach Joel Santana is eager to get back to work. So much so that, upon joining Flamengo, the coach promised to work hard to lift the team out of second-to-last place in the Brazilian Championship.
"If necessary, we'll work 24 hours a day. What can't happen is me opening the newspapers and seeing the team down there," said Joel, announcing that the players will be working hard in the coach's first week on the job, taking advantage of the fact that the team only plays again next Sunday, against Santos, at Vila Belmiro.
"Everything will be analyzed. We'll spend time with the professionals and make decisions yesterday. We've already mapped out the first week of work. We'll have three days of full-time training to get to know the group," he continued.
Before resuming management of Flamengo—the team he had previously managed in 1996, 1998, and 2005—Joel Santana spoke with his predecessor, Ney Franco. According to the current Flamengo coach, the conversation was fruitful, as the former coach informed him of the squad's main problems.
"Let's wait. I'm just arriving now to meet the group. We agree on some points. Flamengo has a team that can't stay in second-to-last place. It's hard to believe. But I only know the group on paper. I need to talk to the guys to find out what's going on. I just know that, with the shirt and the group we have, something is happening, and we need to find out urgently," he commented.
No comparisons with 2005
Therefore, Joel Santana is aware that he will have to work hard to get Flamengo out of its current predicament. But the coach seemed unconcerned about assessing whether the current challenge will be more difficult than the one two years ago, when he miraculously saved the team from relegation – reaching the final nine rounds and achieving six wins and three draws.
"It's hard to say. We have more games now, but everyone is upset. The important thing now is to get the house and the team right. If we get wins, we'll have peace of mind to work. First, we have to get out of this situation. Then we'll see if it was easier or harder," he said.
Joel also avoided comparisons between the 2007 and 2005 squads. Of the players in the current group, only goalkeeper Diego, defender Rodrigo Arroz (both reserves now), right-back Leonardo Moura and striker Obina had been at the club for two years.
"It's relative. Sometimes a team doesn't have a strong squad, but it fits. Like in 2005, when it fit quickly. All that's left is to work and reap the rewards to get out of this situation as quickly as possible," Joel declared, highlighting the importance of unity in pursuit of the 2005 goal as a decisive factor in achieving the "miracle."
"The important thing that time was the support of the fans. We tried to unite even more. I didn't achieve anything alone, on the contrary. The fans believed and the board came along," concluded Joel.
Clipboard and laptop
Known for his famous clipboard, where he takes notes during games, Joel Santana now also has a more modern accessory for work: a laptop. However, he said the computer won't replace his inseparable clipboard.
"I'm an old-school techie, but that doesn't mean I'm not modern. Sometimes I use a laptop, other times I use a clipboard," Joel said.
Immediately afterward, the coach returned to his serious stance. "But that's a minor detail. What's important is on the field. At Flamengo, things happen quickly. That's why we need to make quick decisions," he continued.
After receiving tips from Ney, Joel will ask for support from Flamengo idols
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Before joining Flamengo for his fourth stint with the club, coach Joel Santana received some tips from his predecessor, Ney Franco. In fact, the current coach is relentless in his efforts to pull the team out of the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship. So much so that he also plans to enlist the support of Adílio and Andrade, two Flamengo idols who are part of the team's daily routine at Gávea.
Adílio is the current coach of Flamengo's youth team, which recently won the Belo Horizonte Cup—a tournament considered the Brazilian Championship for the category—and the three-time U-20 state championship in the first half of the year. Joel Santana hopes to welcome new talent from him to the club. Andrade will be his assistant coach with the senior team.
"Andrade has known me for several years. When I was here before, we would spend the night talking, and this time it won't be any different. He's a support system we have on the field. I'll also talk a lot with Adílio about the youth academy. These are two players who know Flamengo better than I do," said Joel Santana, who brought only one professional to work with him - fitness coach Ronaldo Torres.
Ney Franco's support came last Sunday, shortly after the 2-2 draw with Corinthians at Morumbi Stadium in the Brazilian Championship, which culminated in the former coach's departure. Joel said he had dinner with his predecessor and learned important information about the team.
"I spoke with Ney, a nice, pleasant, kind person. He told me what's been happening, the system being adopted, and what needed improvement. I wish him the best of luck," revealed Joel Santana, adding that he did the same when he left the position in 2005 for the arrival of coach Valdir Espinosa.
"When I left, I also passed some things on to Espinosa. This makes it easier for the coach to solve the team's problems," said Joel Santana.
From Ney Franco's coaching staff, only goalkeeper coach Roberto Barbosa remained at the club. Fitness coach Geraldo Fabian and assistant coach Moacir Pereira Junior left Gávea with the former coach.
Excited, Joel Santana returns to Fla
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Visibly emotional, Joel Santana reintroduced himself as Flamengo's "new" coach late Monday afternoon in Gávea. With tears in his eyes and a lump in his throat that nearly prevented him from speaking at the start of the press conference, the coach returned to the club for his fourth stint with the red-and-black team, replacing Ney Franco.
"I'm very emotional. Men also cry with joy. In football, sometimes we get hurt a lot, and suddenly, returning for the fourth time to a club the size of Flamengo, is a dream," said the coach.
"I'm very grateful to the fans and the Flamengo board. I'm very happy and satisfied to be back here and to see how the fans behaved. I hope to have a lot of support," said Joel, who received a standing ovation in the Rogério Steinberg auditorium after making this statement.
Just like now, in his last spell at Flamengo, in 2005, Joel Santana was hired with the mission of taking the team out of the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship.
However, two years ago, the task was nearly impossible. The coach arrived with nine rounds remaining, and under him, the team achieved an improbable unbeaten streak—six wins and three draws—saving themselves from relegation to the second division in the penultimate round.
For this reason, former president Hélio Ferraz, who was a board member at the time, said the coach deserved a statue in Gávea for his achievement. "The most beautiful thing about this is that it left such an impression that the fans haven't forgotten it. They continue to give me credit. It leaves me wanting more. It's a beautiful token of gratitude," commented the coach, who transferred to Japanese football after the 2005 Brazilian Championship.
During the press conference, the club's vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, admitted that other coaches such as Abel Braga and Geninho were also approached.
However, according to him, there was a consensus among the board that Joel Santana is the best option for Flamengo at the moment, which occupies the penultimate position, with 12 points - with three games less than most of its opponents.
"We listened to everyone and, in our opinion, the coach who fits best is Joel. He speaks Flamengo's language and has the Flamengo face," said Kleber Leite, revealing that the coach's contract has no expiration date.
In addition to managing Flamengo in 2005, Joel Santana also managed the team in 1998 and 1996, the year in which he won the state championship undefeated with a team that featured stars like Romário, Sávio, Zé Maria, and Mancuso. In his three previous stints, the coach played 111 games, recording 62 wins, 31 draws, and 18 losses for the red-and-black club.
Flamengo tries to repatriate Jônatas and seeks a 'national team' defender
Vinicius Barreto Souto\ In Rio de Janeiro\
After repatriating midfielder Ibson, Flamengo is now working to bring another player who was trained at the club and plays the same position back to Gávea. During the official presentation of coach Joel Santana, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, said that the board is seeking the return of Jônatas, in addition to signing a defender from the "Brazilian national team."
"Flamengo has officially offered to loan Jônatas until the end of June," Kleber announced, filling the Flamengo fans with hope. "Everything has been agreed with the player. He wants to return. All that's missing is Espanyol's approval. We'll have a response soon, within a day or two," he continued.
Midfielder Jônatas left Flamengo last year, shortly after winning the Copa do Brasil, for Espanyol-ESP. In fact, the player's performance in the competition earned him his first call-up to the Brazilian national team, made by coach Dunga. However, the athlete didn't adapt to the Catalan club and therefore wants to return to Gávea.
Regarding the defender in the board's plans, Kleber Leite avoided giving any clues, but was full of praise for the player. "He's a defender who has had spectacular spells with the clubs he's played for and with the Brazilian national team," said the director, who also raised hopes for fans regarding the possibility of a signing. "We have something well underway. We may have news tomorrow [Tuesday]," he declared.
Coach Joel Santana expressed his eagerness to add a strong defender to his squad. "It all starts at the back. It's difficult for everyone to find a good player at that position," he commented.
BalloonSport
Jônatas agrees to his return
Midfielder leaves Espanyol and stays at Gávea, on loan, until June 2008
Marcio Iannacca
Jônatas no longer wants to play for Espanyol
Jônatas is back at Flamengo. The midfielder, whose contract with Espanyol runs until June 2011, has agreed to a loan move until mid-2008. According to the player's agent, the only remaining issue in the deal is his release from the Barcelona club.
"He (Jônatas) didn't adapt to the Espanyol squad and asked to return to Brazil, to Flamengo. We can't ignore the player's wishes. All that's missing is his release from Espanyol," explains Eduardo Uram.
In the coming days, the club's board will officially announce Jônatas' return to the club where he was raised. With his return and the addition of Ibson, coach Joel Santana gains two players with the club's spirit in midfield.
Fábio Luciano is the chosen defender
Player, who was playing in German football, is negotiating with the red-black team
Marcio Iannacca
Eduardo Peixoto
Fábio Luciano is in Flamengo's sights
Defender Fábio Luciano is on Flamengo's radar for the remainder of the season. Vice President of Football Kléber Leite described him as "a national team player with successful spells at every club he's played for." He would be signed by the end of the year.
Fábio Luciano played in German football last season and is willing to return to Brazil. The player had already been approached by management two months ago, but without success. Kléber Leite expects to have news in the coming hours.
- We are negotiating with this athlete and we may have news soon.\ Let's wait and see what happens - says the manager\
Joel wants to get closer to Andrade and Adílio
Former players, one as an assistant and the other as a youth coach, will help the new coach
Marcio Iannacca
Coach Joel Santana has already assembled his coaching staff to begin his work at Flamengo and wants to count on strong support in his fourth stint with the club. The new manager has chosen Andrade as his assistant and intends to maintain regular communication with Adílio, the youth coach.
"Andrade has known me for several years. During my previous stint here, we worked together and talked for hours into the early hours of the morning to decide on the team. We spent many nights talking, and this time it won't be any different. He's a stronghold we have on the field. Besides Andrade, I'll always talk to Adílio about these young players from the youth academy. They were players who helped with Flamengo's biggest achievements and know everything about what's going on here," says Joel.
During his time at Flamengo in 2005, Joel Santana encouraged defensive midfielders Jônatas and Júnior. Both were on the professional squad but underutilized. They became starters and helped the team escape the relegation zone in the Brasileirão.
Joel and Ney exchange ideas
New coach and former red-black commander leave together before the official presentation
Marcio Iannacca
Coach Joel Santana and his predecessor Ney Franco had lunch together this Monday. The two exchanged ideas about Flamengo, and the new Flamengo manager received all the information about the squad and all the problems he will face from now on.
"It was a great conversation. Ney is a kind person and explained everything that's been going on with the team. That happened to me last time when I left. It makes the coach's life easier because he has a better understanding of the squad. He showed us what could be done to improve. Ney is a spectacular person," he praises the new coach.
After chatting with Ney Franco, Joel was excited about the treatment he has been receiving from the red-black fans.
"The best part of all is that we're arriving once again to fulfill a mission. That 2005 trip left such a lasting impression. After spending a year in Japan, the fans continue to give me credit in the markets and on the streets. It's great that you left and the fans recognize you. The best part is everyone's gratitude," says the coach, who doesn't intend to demand the bust promised by former president Hélio Ferraz in 2005.
Fla officially announces proposal for Jônatas
The board is waiting for a response from Espanyol to announce the signing of the midfielder.
Marcio Iannacca
Jônatas' return may surprise
Jônatas is very close to returning to Flamengo. Vice President of Football Kléber Leite confirmed that the Flamengo board has made an offer worth around US$2 million to retain the player from Espanyol, Spain, for the remainder of the Brazilian Championship.
The athlete was to be signed on loan until June 2008, and the Rio de Janeiro club is just waiting for a response before announcing the deal. Espanyol wanted left-back Juan to be part of the negotiations, but Flamengo's board refused.
Jônatas was discovered by Flamengo and traded after the 2006 Copa do Brasil title. However, the player didn't adapt to the Spanish club. He has had several disciplinary issues and isn't in the management's plans for this season.
"We're negotiating with Jônatas, and everything is going very well. He's already packing his bags," says the club's director.
Joel gets emotional on his return to Gávea
Coach's eyes fill with tears in his first words as Fla's coach
Marcio Iannacca
Coach Joel Santana was moved when introduced by Flamengo president Marcio Braga and vice president of football Kléber Leite. With tears in his eyes, the coach spoke of the responsibility of leading the Red-Blacks and the mission he will have to pull the team out of the relegation zone in the Brazilian Championship.
"I'm thrilled because of the Flamengo fans and the club's management. This movement for me to return to Flamengo began early Sunday morning. I'm happy, very pleased to be back. It's incredibly emotional. The men are crying too," says the coach.
Joel hopes to meet the players from the red-and-black squad during training sessions next week in Gávea and at Ninho do Urubu in Vargem Grande. The coach believes that the players who take the field must honor the sacred mantle.
"I'm just arriving. I received a list of our players from Isaías Tinoco. I can't come here and talk about something I don't know anything about. But what I can say is that Flamengo can't stay in this position. Whoever steps onto the field will have the honor of wearing this jersey and playing for Flamengo," says Joel Santana.
Joel is approved by experts
Journalists believe the coach will improve Flamengo's situation in the Brasileirão
Marcio Iannacca
Coach Joel Santana's nomination to replace Ney Franco, who was fired last Sunday after the 2-2 draw with Corinthians at Morumbi Stadium, was approved by three journalists who spoke with GLOBOESPORTE.COM on Monday. According to the experts, the coach will deliver and will be able to lift Flamengo out of the bottom of the Brazilian Championship.
Check out the faces and expressions of the new red-black commander
For Alex Escobar, commentator for SporTV, Joel was the right choice for Flamengo.
"Joel is the ideal coach for this kind of situation. He's identified with Flamengo and has a strong reputation. He's a good choice and has everything it takes to succeed," says Escobar, before discussing Brazilian football culture.
"When the reinforcements come on the field, the coach is fired. They could have left Ney for another three or four games. Ibson and Roger will be playing, and then he could be held accountable," the commentator adds.
Marcelo Barreto, also from SporTV, has a similar opinion and said he was disappointed with yet another promise made by a club's board.
"I thought Ney Franco's dismissal was inevitable. Flamengo decided he would leave even before these last two games. Ney was already fired and Joel was hired. Joel can work at Flamengo because he already worked once. But it's disappointing for Flamengo and for Brazilian football that this is happening. It's yet another lie the directors told. Kléber Leite said Ney was a long-term prospect, and nothing like that happened," Barreto analyzes.
For journalist Roberto Assaf, the coaching change will have an impact on the upcoming games. According to him, Joel Santana is a coach who enjoys giving fans satisfaction in both victories and defeats.
"Joel has the power to vibrate in defeat and victory. You can feel he's concerned. Unlike the other coach. Joel knows what Flamengo is all about. I don't know if he was solely responsible for avoiding relegation in 2005, but he played a significant role," says Assaf.
Throw
Flamengo tries to bring back Jônatas
The midfielder would stay at Flamengo until June of next year, on loan from Espanyol. Response will be released in two days.
LANCEPRESS!\ At the presentation of Joel Santana as Flamengo's new coach, vice-president of football Kléber Leite gave some news to cheer up the red-black fans: the club made an offer to Espanyol to bring Jônatas back.\
According to Kléber, Flamengo would only pay the midfielder's salary, who would be on loan until June 2008. The Spanish club's response is expected within two days at most.
Kléber also announced that Flamengo hopes to announce a defender with national team standards this Tuesday.
Joel gets emotional on his return to Gávea
At the club for the fourth time, the coach thanks the board and fans for their trust
Joel even has the support of the wife of the president of Fla (Credit: Paulo Wrencher)
Edgard Maciel de Sá
Joel Santana is back at Flamengo. Hired last night to replace Ney Franco, who had been with the club for a year and three months, the coach was introduced Monday afternoon at the Gávea auditorium.
The coach was welcomed by the words of president Márcio Braga.
"It's with great joy that we welcome back a great coach who was previously here and was the undefeated Carioca champion in 1996. He also returned in 2005 and delivered a technical performance that deserves praise, securing Flamengo's place in the Brasileirão the following year. He's a very competent individual," said Márcio, noting that even his wife asked for the coach's return.
"Even Rosana, who isn't from the football world, told me on Sunday, after learning of Ney Franco's departure, to bring Joel back. That's why I wanted to express my joy at having him back as coach," the president added.
The speech left Joel visibly emotional and he could barely hold back the tears when he received the microphone.
"I wanted to say that I'm very excited and grateful to the board and the fans. This move that resulted in my signing made me very happy. We have a new mission, which is to get the team out of the relegation zone, and I hope to fulfill my role once again. It's an honor to lead Flamengo," Joel said.
During the interview, the coach was full of praise for the Flamengo fans and management, who, he said, haven't forgotten the work they did two years ago. For Joel, this gratitude is better than any tribute a coach could receive for a good campaign.
Márcio Braga bets everything on Joel
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo president Márcio Braga expressed great confidence in coach Joel Santana's return to Gávea. The director highlighted the coach's previous stints at the club:
"It's a joy to have back a great coach who was an undefeated champion in 1996. In 2005, he had a technical performance worthy of all praise and gave us much joy at that time. Joel is truly a competent individual," he says.
For Fla, Joel's performance is 65%
In his three spells at the club, the coach suffered only 18 defeats
LANCEPRESS!
The most superstitious Flamengo fans must be happy with Joel Santana's return to the club. This is because the coach's numbers at the helm are very good. In his three stints at Gávea (1996, 1998, and 2005), the man with the drawing board led the team in 111 games and lost only 18. There were 62 wins and 31 draws. These numbers reflect a 65,1% points percentage, well above the team's 33% so far in the Brazilian Championship.
"It's a great joy for Flamengo football to have a professional of this caliber at the club. Joel has the spirit of Flamengo and will bring great joy to our fans," said the club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, during the coach's presentation.
The director also recalled that Flamengo won four titles undefeated in its century-long history and one of them was with Joel leading the team: the 1996 Campeonato Carioca.
Fla hopes to sign a defender soon
The name was not revealed, but the player would be of Brazilian National Team level\ LANCEPRESS!\
During the presentation of coach Joel Santana, on Monday afternoon, in the Gávea auditorium, Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite, revealed that the club intends to sign a defender.
"We can announce a Brazilian national team-caliber defender. I can't reveal any names yet, but we're doing everything we can to further strengthen the red-and-black squad," explained the director, who moments earlier had already announced the likely return of midfielder Jônatas to the club.