The Globe
Fla begins negotiating a five-year contract with Bruno today
Excited, goalkeeper says he dreams of stability and identification in football
Photo caption: BRUNO IN pre-season: the goalkeeper wants to repay Fla with titles
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
TERESÓPOLIS. If the negotiations that resume today confirm a likely five-year contract renewal, goalkeeper Bruno will become a milestone in Flamengo's recent history. To retain him, the club agreed in December to pay approximately three million euros (approximately R$7,5 million) to the investors who held his rights in ten installments. The amount makes the player Flamengo's largest investment in acquiring a player since the ISL era, which ended in 2001.
With Bruno's acquisition, Flamengo believes it has acquired more than just an asset—allowing the red-and-black player to be compensated in a potential negotiation. But above all, it relies on the certainty of having a more emotionally stable player. Since arriving at Flamengo in 2006, Bruno has only signed six-month contracts, as decided by the investors.
"I'd go to bed worried about the next day. Every six months there'd be a contract dispute. I had no peace of mind, and it only hurt me," he says.
Joel starts assembling the team on Thursday
During this period, the goalkeeper became an example of a new reality in football. He also gained a critical view of what it means to be owned by investors:
- An outfield player may be doing well at a club and see a positive outcome in taking advantage of a negotiation opportunity. A goalkeeper is different; he needs to be identified. The player, however, must be vigilant. The investor invests money and wants a return. Sometimes, this doesn't benefit the player, but rather the company that owns the rights.
- Now, he will have his head in the right place to show, for longer, that he is the best in Brazil - says vice-president of football, Kleber Leite.
If he renews his contract, Bruno will face a new reality. He plans to stay at Flamengo for five years, but he's aware of the attractive international market numbers.
"My mind is on Flamengo and this long contract. But I can't compete with the European market. If something happens for me and Flamengo, that's fine. But I'm thinking about giving back to the club with achievements," says Bruno, before discussing the new contract negotiations. "It depends on tomorrow's (today's) conversation. Flamengo's offer is good and has everything it needs to work out. But in football, things are only guaranteed when you sign."
Yesterday, Flamengo received a visit from Espanhol, state champion in 1963. Today, he is assistant coach to Luis Aragonés on the Spanish national team.
Coach Joel Santana expects to begin training with the ball and assembling the team tomorrow. On Thursday, Flamengo will play a training match against the Nicaraguan national team.
LET'S VOTE FOR JUVENAL, THE RUBRO-NEGRO? HE RAN WITH A MENGÃO SHIRT UNDER HIS UNIFORM
THE BEST OF RIO: Clumsy, only stopped by knee pain, Turfe's Garrincha is a brilliant red-and-black
Here comes Juvenal, the five-time champion of Gávea
Retired since 2002, the biggest winner of the Brazilian GP today raises cattle and lives with his family in the backlands of Alagoas.
RIDING FLYING Finn, Juvenal is applauded after winning the Brazilian GP for the fifth and final time, in 1990
Marco Aurélio Ribeiro
Like the Brazilian national soccer team, Juvenal Machado da Silva is a five-time champion. He holds the record for most wins in the Brazilian Grand Prix, having lifted the trophy with Aporé (1979), Gourmet (1982), Grimaldi (1986), Bowling (1987), and Flying Finn (1990). With over four thousand victories at Gávea, six statistics, and two highly successful seasons in Cidade Jardim (SP), today he cares for his family, grandchildren, and cattle on his land in the city of Delmiro Gouveia, in the backlands of Alagoas. He remains as cheerful as ever. He follows the races, suffers with Flamengo, and worries about the country's situation. From racing, he misses his friends and the great achievements of his 31-year career.
He started riding at Gávea in 1971 and achieved his first victory with the mare Eringa, on his birthday: November 15th.
Juvenal was a unique case in the history of the sport. Called a genius, Garrincha do Turfe, Mestre, and other titles, he enchanted the racing public during his victorious career. Some tried to explain the Alagoan's success with scientific theories. They said he had found the right balance for horses and that his clumsy manner atop the runners was the perfect combination of man and animal.
The truth is that Juvenal is deeply missed and is constantly remembered to this day. He was a milestone, and all who watched him for 31 years will never forget his monumental directions and announcer Ernani Pires Ferreira's catchphrase: "Here comes Juvenal."
Vote until Friday at the Gávea polls or online
In 2004, 25 years after his first Brazilian GP victory with Aporé, he was honored by the Brazilian Jockey Club alongside Luiz Rigoni. Last May, the São Paulo Jockey Club remembered the champion, who attended despite suffering two broken ribs. Days later, he saw friends in Rio, attending his nephew's graduation.
The Alagoas native retired from riding in March 2002 at the age of 47, after 31 years dedicated to the profession and over 4.000 career victories. As he had planned, he moved permanently to Delmiro Gouveia, Alagoas, where he began tending to his two farms, a herd of cattle, and a steakhouse in the city.
A die-hard Flamengo fan, he left the track and a rivalry with his friend, Botafogo fan Jorge Ricardo, who three years later would also leave the Rio de Janeiro track to ride with great success in Argentina. Juvenal became, in his own words at the time, a "cowboy and businessman."
His simple, funny, and always happy demeanor was the trademark of this Alagoan, who made friends during his long years at Gávea. He suffered a few injuries from falls and developed a more serious problem with his right knee. As he approached retirement, the great champion struggled to maintain his weight. Never one to turn down a good barbecue and, occasionally, a beer, it became increasingly difficult to watch the scales. Adding to his injuries, he decided to retire from riding for good.
At one point, Juvenal considered becoming a coach, but he preferred to enjoy the backlands with his family, without giving up his barbecue and a cold drink.
Juvenal Machado da Silva's profile was second on the list of five riders selected in this election for the best jockey of all time in Rio de Janeiro racing. Ricardinho was first.
www.oglobo.com.br/esportes
SAO PAULO CUP
The Rio de Janeiro clubs debuted with a victory in the São Paulo Junior Football Cup. Yesterday, Vasco defeated Paysandu 1-0 in Group S. On Saturday, Flamengo thrashed Nacional-AM 4-0 in Group N. Fluminense defeated Mogi Mirim 2-0 in Group O. The Tricolor faces Gurupi today (16 p.m.).
FLA WINS IN BASKETBALL
Flamengo defeated Lajeado (RS) 83-69 on the road yesterday in the opening round of the National Men's Basketball Championship. Tomorrow, the red-and-black team faces Joinville (SC) on the road.
Sports Journal
Finally, the big day at Fla
After a month of negotiations, the board should announce today the renewal of goalkeeper Bruno
Thiago Bokel
Even without a contract, Bruno traveled with the group to Teresópolis, where Fla is holding pre-season training.
Not even the rain that fell yesterday in Teresópolis could dampen coach Joel Santana's happiness. After much uncertainty, the day has finally come for the coach to breathe a sigh of relief. As anticipated by JORNAL DOS SPORTS in its edition last Friday, the 4th, goalkeeper Bruno is expected to sign his contract extension with the Rubro-Negro today.
Although everything was already agreed, with Flamengo willing to pay €2,5 million to the MSI investment fund to acquire 80% of Bruno's economic rights and keep him under contract for the next five years, vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, remained cautious. After yesterday morning's training session at Granja Comary, the Flamengo's number 1 finally revealed:
"Tomorrow (Monday) we should get everything sorted. I can't wait for this saga to end. I'll be more relaxed and so will Flamengo fans. Everything will be fine. We just need to sort out the small details," Bruno said.
The excitement surrounding the renewal is so great that he's already making bold plans for this season. In addition to the Copa Libertadores, the year's most important competition, Flamengo will also compete in the Carioca and Brazilian championships.
"Our goal is to win everything this year. We have the strength from last year, combined with the new reinforcements and the unity that this group already has. If we use the same responsibility we had in 2007 this year, we will go far," predicted the goalkeeper.
Since the end of last year's Brazilian Championship, Kleber Leite had already been treating the negotiations with Bruno as the most difficult of all. But the player's renewal was considered the manager's flagship for this season. And the club's strongman had to work hard to convince investors to sell the goalkeeper. MSI seemed adamant, as they wanted to sell him to the European market. What ultimately mattered was Bruno's desire to remain at Gávea.
Many clubs expressed interest in him. The closest they came to snatching him from Flamengo was Milan. There was even the possibility of the Italian club transferring him to Fluminense for six months, which Bruno flatly rejected. Now, finally, the final chapter of this saga is nearing a happy ending for the goalkeeper, the fans, and Flamengo itself.
Jônatas will be introduced this Monday
Besides Bruno's renewal, the day promises to be positive in other aspects for Flamengo. With the arrival of agent Eduardo Uram from Europe, Espanyol's release should also come, so that defensive midfielder Jônatas can finally be officially presented as a Flamengo player.
Announced just after Christmas, the midfielder was expected to wear the Flamengo jersey on the same day that defensive midfielder Gavilán and forward Éder were presented. However, with the Catalan club's paperwork taking so long to arrive, Kleber Leite preferred to postpone the ceremony until today.
Another possible development is the new striker who would be signed to form a partnership with Souza. São Paulo's Diego Tardelli was very close to a deal, but negotiations cooled last week. The player, however, has not yet been ruled out by the Flamengo director. A proposal will also be presented today for striker Ronaldo to join Flamengo. The board is trying to convince Milan to release the player for free.
It also won't be a surprise if Kleber announces another name for the attack. It promises to be a long day for the red-and-black fans.
Reinforcements don't worry Toró
When he arrived at Flamengo in 2006, Toró was one of the board's biggest bets. After earning a starting spot in that year's Copa do Brasil finals, he was relegated to the reserves and sometimes didn't even play in team games.
With the arrival of coach Joel Santana in the middle of last year, the player received another opportunity and rose to the occasion, becoming a starter in the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship. His strong performances earned him recognition, so much so that he was called up to the Olympic team, which Dunga called up to play a friendly against the best players from the 2007 championship.
With the signings of Kleberson, Gavilán, Jônatas, and Marcinho, the midfielder will once again have to fight hard to remain in the starting lineup. This, however, doesn't worry him: "Flamengo really needs quality players. So it's good that we'll have a strong team for all the competitions we compete in. Everyone will have an opportunity, and I'll fight to make my place," promised Toró, who knows the importance of showing his worth early on in the preseason.
"I'll be starting from scratch again, and I don't have any advantage because I was already here. In fact, that's a good thing, because I can't relax. I need to prove to Joel that I can play. I know it will be difficult, but I've learned from everything I've been through and I know you can't let the ball drop," said the player, who won over the red-and-black coach with his physical strength last season.
Ronaldo Angelim fights to stay in the team
With the signing of defender Rodrigo, one player in particular is close to losing his starting spot: Ronaldo Angelim, who started almost every match last season, will likely be sacrificed for the new signing. But the player prefers not to give up so easily.
"That doesn't bother me. It just motivates me even more. Joel can also opt for three defenders, which would be easier for me. He's a smart coach and will know what's best for the team. I'm working for my place and have been working hard to be ready when needed. The winner is Flamengo, who will be certain of having great players in their squad," explained Angelim.
Friendly with Nicaragua Before the training match against the Benin national team next Sunday, Flamengo will begin its technical preparations for its debut in the Campeonato Carioca against the Nicaragua national team on Wednesday at 15 pm at Granja Comary. This should be the group's first ball practice of the season.
Joel Santana hopes to see Ronaldo at Fla in 2008
Coach Joel Santana, like all Flamengo fans, is looking forward to seeing star Ronaldo wear the Flamengo shirt in 2008. The Flamengo coach believes that if the 'Phenomenon' really wants to play for Flamengo, then it will happen sooner or later.
"The most important thing is to know if he really wants to come to Flamengo. The rest will be sorted out," said Joel. "Natalino" assured that Clube de Regatas do Flamengo has every possible condition to bring Ronaldo back into the game.
"The main factor in all of this is that our team is very good, we have the best medical department in Brazil. We want to restore everything that Ronaldo represents for Brazil. He's a great player and a great athlete," Joel commented in an interview with Rádio Bandeirantes.
Bring on the Carioca!
Flamengo's coach is eagerly awaiting the start of the Campeonato Carioca. In his opinion, this edition of the Rio de Janeiro State Championship will be special and high-quality.
"This Campeonato Carioca will be the great reference point for the rest of the year. It will be a different Campeonato Carioca, because it's the first time Flamengo has the chance to equal Fluminense's number of titles. All the teams are preparing and strengthening their squads," said the Rubro-Negro commander.
Fla TV in testing
Flamengo fans can now check out what's happening behind the scenes at Flamengo. This Saturday, anyone who visited Flamengo's official website (www.flamengo.com.br) could already see an early version of the Fla TV project. Since it's still in testing, Flamengo is asking viewers to send in feedback and suggestions for improving the content. Fla TV's official version is expected to go live on the 15th of this month.
Mengão starts in great style
Flamengo comes from behind to win 83-69 against Univates in their debut at the National Basketball Championship
Pedro Ivo Almeida
With 28 points, Marcelinho was once again a highlight for Fla
Flamengo started its journey towards the National Basketball Championship title with the "right hand". Led by forward Marcelinho, the game's top scorer with 28 points, the current state champion defeated Univates/Bira by 83 to 69 (44 to 38), yesterday afternoon, at the Univates Sports Complex gymnasium, in Lajeado, in the interior of Rio Grande do Sul.
Encouraged by approximately three thousand fans who filled the gymnasium and taking advantage of the initial nervousness that took over the Rio de Janeiro team, the home team imposed a strong pace of play and with good aim in medium and long distance shots, the Gaucho team closed the first quarter winning 27 to 22.
The second quarter began with Flamengo still struggling to break through the opposing defense, but from the middle of the second quarter onwards, the team settled in and, with a greater volume of play, showed why they were considered the favorite. With the introduction of Duda, who played very well in the defense, and Wagner, who despite his limited time on the court (the center left with a cut on his eyebrow) was an important part of the comeback, the Rubro-Negro took the lead and closed the first half at 44-38.
After halftime, the Southern team couldn't replicate their early performance, and Paulo Chupeta's men opened up an ever-increasing lead. The final period began with Flamengo leading 62-55.
Leading the scoreboard and with clear technical superiority on the court, Flamengo played a very good last quarter of the match, increasing their lead and closing the game at 83 to 69.
Even with the victory, coach Paulo Chupeta believes the team still has room for improvement. "We didn't start the match well and let our opponent finish the first quarter with a five-point lead. In the second quarter, we recovered and began to open up a lead, finishing with a 14-point lead. We still have some details to work out for the rest of the competition."
69 X 83 FLAMENGO FLATBED
LAJEADO\ Fernando (12), Léo (5), Audrei (18), Thulius (15) and BA (4). Entered: Márcos (4), Ildes (11), Cristian, Márcio, Buboltz, Gil and Langsdorff.\ Coach: Clairton Waccholz\
FLAMENGO\ Fred, Hélio (11), Marcelinho (28), Coloneze (7) and Alírio (12); Entered: Duda (12), Wagner (2), Amiel (9) and Maicon (2).\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta\
Location: Lajeado Gymnasium (RS)\ Referees: José Pelissari, Enaldo Batista and Benedito Carvalho.\
Marcelinho puts on a show in his red-black debut
Just like in the State Championship, winger Marcelinho was Flamengo's standout performer in the match. Scoring 28 points in the game, more than a third of his team's total, the three-time Pan American champion with the Brazilian national team showed why he's indispensable to his team by preventing a worsening first-quarter result, when nothing was going right for Flamengo, by scoring 15 points and preventing Univates/Bira from pulling away. He was also instrumental in Flamengo's comeback, leading his team with accurate two- and three-point shots, in addition to achieving an excellent 100% free throw percentage (eight in total).
And contrary to what many imagine, the experienced player also performed very well defensively. He helped his teammates with three rebounds and five rebounds and committed only two errors throughout the match.
Tomorrow, Rubro-Negro faces Joinville, at 20 pm, away from home.
Iguaçu Basquete didn't have a good debut, losing 94-42 to Joinville yesterday in Santa Catarina. Tomorrow, the Baixada Fluminense team faces Univates in Lajeado, Rio Grande do Sul.
O Dia
7/1/2008 01:28:00
Fla: Happy ending for Bruno
Goalkeeper expected to sign contract today that will guarantee him a five-year stay
Rio - Flamengo is expected to put a definitive end to the soap opera starring goalkeeper Bruno today. The expectation is that the contract will finally be renewed, with a happy ending for all parties involved in the negotiation.
For €2,5 million (approximately R$6,5 million), Flamengo will acquire 75 percent of the goalkeeper's economic rights. This will ensure his stay at the Gávea club for another five years.
"Without a doubt, this will give him more peace of mind at work. It's what Bruno always wanted in life," said Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, relieved that the case had ended in the way he had dreamed of since last year, when the goalkeeper almost had to leave the club.
Even without a contract, Bruno introduced himself to coach Joel Santana and continues training with the team. Now, he can finally put that worry behind him.
"I believe everything will end very well for everyone. Let's put an end to this saga soon. There are still small details that need to be resolved, but I hope this ends soon, once and for all," said Bruno, eager to sign his new contract.
Flamengo's offer is what Bruno wanted to hear. The goalkeeper, who spent his vacation in Minas Gerais, never considered leaving Flamengo. Back to work, and with his contract practically signed, Bruno, a fan favorite, is only thinking about excelling in goal for the Gávea team once again.
"My goal is to be champion in every competition. We have the same strength as last year, with unity and responsibility. If we do the same this year, we'll go very far," said the Flamengo goalkeeper.
BAD WEATHER ON THE FARM
Due to the physical exertion the players underwent yesterday and also due to the heavy rains in Teresópolis, the team will not train this morning at Granja Comary.
Nicaragua, the first challenge
Flamengo's players haven't seen the ball in training yet. But they have a very important encounter with it: Thursday at 15 p.m., the team will face the Nicaraguan national team at Granja.
This will be Joel Santana's first opportunity to see the players in action, as they have only been undergoing training so far. Another match is scheduled for Sunday against the Benin national team.
The State Championship debut will be on the 20th, against Boavista. So, it's time to show what we can do. "Some players have arrived, and everyone knows that only those who are fit will play. This encourages preparation, and Joel is the one who benefits, as he now has more options. The goal is to win titles, and to do that, we need to be well prepared and motivated," said Toró, who overcame criticism and finished the year as a starter.
Sports Gazette
Flamengo schedules training match against Nicaragua national team
Teresópolis (RJ) - Flamengo confirmed this Sunday that it will play a training match against the Nicaraguan national team on Thursday, as part of the club's preparations at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis. The Rubro-Negro also has another match confirmed, next Sunday, when it faces the Benin national team. The two training matches will be used by Joel Santana to observe the team's technical and tactical performance, as he is prioritizing physical fitness at the start of the preseason. Midfielder Toró approved the club's initiative to schedule matches against national teams.
"Some players have arrived, and everyone knows that only those who are fit will play. This encourages preparation, and Joel is the one who benefits, as he now has more options. The goal is to win titles, and to do that, you need to be well prepared and motivated," the player stated.
This Sunday, Flamengo held a two-day training session, prioritizing physical activity. The squad will return to training on Monday afternoon.
PeléNet
Bruno sees Flamengo as a "title-hog" in 2008
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
Overall, it can be said that Flamengo had a good year in 2007. The state title and third place in the Brazilian Championship ended up erasing the early elimination of the Copa Libertadores by Defensor-URU, still in the round of XNUMX.
But that alone isn't enough for goalkeeper Bruno. Hungry for more success, he envisions a much more successful season and projects a team that will be the talk of the town. A true title-winner.
"This group is strong and has already shown that. With the reinforcements, it's even better. Joel (Santana, coach) will put together a team with the sole objective of being champion. And that's what we want too. Therefore, we have to strive for that from the first to the last competition," he emphasized.
Bruno also acknowledged that Flamengo, given its performance in the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship, has increased its responsibility. "Definitely. Now they'll demand much more, because the image we've left is that of a winner," the goalkeeper admitted, sharing the burden with all Flamengo fans.
"The fans' responsibility is also much greater after all the support they gave us last year, which was very successful. They have to keep that up. But I'm sure they will, because they're always by our side," he said.
Negotiations at Flamengo resume this Monday
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
After a weekend off, negotiations will resume at Flamengo this Monday. And there are many pending issues that need to be properly resolved by the board, starting with Jônatas' presentation, which has been postponed.
Jônatas' situation has not yet been resolved
According to the vice-president of football at the club, Kleber Leite, Espanyol-ESP, which owns the midfielder's federation rights, has not yet sent the remaining documentation for the 18-month loan to be finalized.
"There are still things to be resolved. But these are details. We still have time for that. The first game is only on the 20th (against Boavista, at Maracanã, for the Rio de Janeiro State Championship)," said the director.
Despite not having his situation regularized, Jônatas has been training normally with his teammates, at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, where the pre-season is taking place.
In addition to the problems with the steering wheel, the red-black leadership has a list of pending issues to be resolved, such as the renewal of goalkeeper Bruno's contract for another five years (which should happen by Wednesday) and the signing of a striker, which could be Ronaldo, from Milan, or Diego Tardelli, from São Paulo.
Flamengo's first test will be against the Nicaraguan national team
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
Flamengo players will play a training match against the Nicaraguan national team, this Thursday, at 15 pm (Brasília time), at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis (site of the red-black pre-season), in the Serrana region of Rio de Janeiro.
This will be the red-and-black team's first test this season. For now, the players are only training physically. Ball work is expected to begin on Tuesday or Wednesday.
Flamengo's first opponent was initially the Benin national team. However, this match will now be played on the morning of the 13th, also at Granja Comary.
The Red-Black team will debut in the State Championship against Boavista on the 20th at Maracanã. The first match in the Copa Libertadores will be played in February against Coronel Bolognesi-PER in Peru.
Flamengo players assess their grueling physical training routine
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
Flamengo's preseason training at Granja Comary in Teresópolis has been grueling. Away from the ball, the Flamengo squad has been undergoing a grueling routine of weight training in the morning and physical training on the field in the afternoon.
"That's the most boring part. It's very tiring," said midfielder Toró, acknowledging that it's a necessary suffering. "But we know we have to go through it so we can stay in good shape all year long."
Defender Ronaldo Angelim follows his teammate's lead and also emphasizes his desire to regain possession of the ball as quickly as possible.
"Now that's it. It's just physical. It's not very nice, but it's necessary. It pays off in the end. But I confess that I already miss training with the ball," he stressed.
But all this suffering is nearing an end. The squad is expected to begin ball training on Tuesday or Wednesday, and on Thursday, at 15 p.m. (Brasília time), they have a friendly against the Nicaraguan national team.
Flamengo's vice president of football pays tribute to past idol
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
This Sunday afternoon was filled with nostalgia at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, where Flamengo is conducting its preseason training. While the players worked hard in the pouring rain on the grass of one of the training center's pitches, vice president of football Kleber Leite honored the former Spanish player, who played as a winger for Flamengo from 1961 to 1964, when he transferred to Atlético de Madrid, with the presentation of two club jerseys.
"I'm very moved by this memory of a club that meant a lot to me in my career. I've had some unforgettable moments here," the former player emphasized.
At 66 years old, Espanhol is now assistant coach of his country's national team, led by the experienced Luis Aragonés.
Marcinho arrives and the Fla group is complete at Granja
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
Released to attend his sister's wedding ceremony in Belo Horizonte, midfielder Marcinho only joined the Flamengo squad this Sunday, which is conducting preseason training at Granja Comary in Teresópolis. Coach Joel Santana now has 29 players at his disposal.
The player arrived in the mountain town late in the morning and, therefore, did not participate in the first stage of activities. However, in the afternoon, he struggled during the intense physical training led by trainer Ronaldo Torres. Because he arrived late, the midfielder will be the only one working out this Monday morning.
Marcinho, who was at Atlético-MG and did not agree to a renewal, signed a contract with Rubro-Negro until December 2008.
BalloonSport
Fla pays tribute to past idol
Spanish player receives two Kléber Leite shirts at Granja Comary and gets emotional
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Spanish receives Flamengo's shirt
This rainy Sunday afternoon in Teresópolis served as an opportunity for Flamengo to pay homage to one of its idols from the 1960s. The former Spanish player was at Granja Comary and received two of the club's shirts from the club's vice-president of football, Kléber Leite.
José Armando Ufarte, known as Espanhol, is currently assistant coach of his country's national team and was in Brazil on vacation.
"I'm touched by this tribute. I hope to return to Brazil soon," says the former player.
Gávea will have meetings on Monday
Kléber Leite promises to spend the day resolving pending negotiations at Flamengo
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Kléber Leite has not yet given up on strikers Ronaldo and Diego Tardelli
After a uneventful weekend, Flamengo's board will have a busy Monday. The club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, will travel down to the mountains of Rio de Janeiro and spend the day in Gávea resolving pending matters and dealing with the players of interest.
On the agenda are topics such as Ronaldo and Diego Tardelli. Regarding the former, Flamengo's "task force" is expected to reconvene to continue developing the project they will present to the athlete. The São Paulo striker, in turn, should have his situation resolved. Negotiations hit a snag last week, and the club doesn't want to turn the matter into a soap opera.
Kléber Leite is also waiting to receive Jônatas's documentation. Espanyol hasn't sent the paperwork yet, so the player's presentation was postponed from Monday to—initially—Tuesday.
The formalities for a five-year deal with goalkeeper Bruno are also expected to be finalized. However, the player's contract signing is expected to take place on Wednesday, when his agent, Eduardo Uram, is in Teresópolis.
Finally, right-back Leonardo Moura will sign a contract until 2011.
Marcinho arrives at Granja Comary
Player is the last to show up and will work overtime this Monday
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Flamengo's squad at Granja Comary is complete until further notice. This Sunday, supporter Marcinho arrived in Teresópolis by taxi after being released to attend his sister's wedding in Belo Horizonte.
He participated in the second training session. This Monday, while the other players had the morning off due to the efforts of the previous days, Marcinho will wake up early to work on his physical condition.
With Marcinho's arrival, there are now 29 players on the team. Coach Joel Santana expects to work with a group of 30 players. The last player is the striker the board is looking for.
Jônatas, the darling of the group
Player returns to Flamengo excited and receives praise from teammates
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Jônatas captivates his companions with his good humor at the Farm
For outsiders, Jônatas is a reserved man of few words. At Espanyol, things weren't much different. But at Flamengo, the midfielder transforms. Jokes, cheerfulness, and friendship are part of his repertoire.
He left Rubro-Negro in August 2006. It doesn't even seem like it. This Tuesday, Jônatas will be presented as a reinforcement for 2008 at Granja Comary, but since last Thursday, he has shown his teammates (new and old) the same enthusiasm as before.
"We created a family here at Flamengo, and Jônatas was already part of it. He arrived playing with everyone. He's a role model, a great guy. People out there often say he's quiet. But it's just shyness. I don't even have words to describe him as a person. And, of course, a football star," says fan Toró.
Before being traded, Jônatas faced accusations that he, along with Júnior, currently at Grêmio, formed a clique of players trained at Gávea. The midfielder has always defended himself by claiming he's not a "traitor" and that he's always had a great relationship with most of the players.
Bruno soap opera ends on Monday
Goalkeeper to sign five-year contract with Flamengo in Teresópolis
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Flamengo will buy 80% of goalkeeper Bruno's economic rights
The agreement to renew Bruno's contract with Flamengo has been in the works for almost two months. But the terms will only be made official this Monday, in the presence of the player's agent, Eduardo Uram.
The Rubro-Negro will officially purchase 80% of the goalkeeper's economic rights for €2,5 million (R$6,5 million) and secure his stay for another five years. Training without a contract, he hopes for an immediate resolution.
"Everything is going to be fine. Let's get this whole ordeal over with. There are small details to be resolved. I hope this ends tomorrow (Monday)," Bruno declares.
The goalkeeper spent his vacation in Minas Gerais and returned to Flamengo excited about the season. Above all, he hopes for titles.
"The goal is to win every tournament. We have the same strength as last year, with unity and responsibility. If we do the same this year, we'll go very far," says Flamengo's number one.
Caxeta and video games rule the farm
Flamengo players play cards and virtual football in Teresópolis
Eduardo Peixoto Special Envoy
Obina (right) prefers to play alone so as not to get 'entangled' with video games
As the years pass, video games remain the biggest craze at soccer camps. At Granja Comary, Flamengo players are no exception. However, a card game called "caxeta" has also been keeping the athletes busy these days in Teresópolis.
Each player receives nine cards and must form three of a kind or a straight. Ibson, Ronaldo Angelim, Thiago Sales, Obina, Luizinho, and Jaílton are some of those who indulge in gambling. But no money bets. Only fun is allowed.
While Leo Moura, for example, is a fan of surfing the internet, another group is trying to improve their soccer skills. Only online. Left-back Juan is a star player in the video game. Goalkeeper Diego is also a favorite in the betting pool. Aware of his limitations, Obina avoids confrontations.
"Me? Oh, I prefer to play alone. I mess around a bit and the guys are beasts," he says, bursting out laughing.
There's also the group that barely finds time for anything after the physical training at the beginning of the season. Defender Rodrigo admits he rarely talks to his teammates.
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Bruno: 'I want to make history at Flamengo'
Goalkeeper expected to renew with club for five years this Monday
Bruno is just happy with the end of soap operas due to renewal with Fla (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)
Bruno is expected to sign a five-year contract extension (four years with the option to renew for another year) with Flamengo this Monday. This is a chance for the goalkeeper, who has already won the hearts of Flamengo fans, to give more reasons to continue being in demand. Something similar to what Rogério Ceni represents for São Paulo.
"It was a dream to stay at Flamengo, who opened the door for me when I needed it. As a young goalkeeper, I want to make history here. I don't see any reason to leave for Europe now. Rogério is a good example of that," Bruno stated.
To keep Bruno for five years, Flamengo will have to pay around €2,5 million (just over R$9 million). This was the amount investors accepted for the sale of 80% of the rights, to be paid in installments with guarantees of future Fla-TV revenues.
"Details are missing. I hope to resolve this situation so that I, the board, and the fans can all rest easy. I want to put an end to this saga," said the goalkeeper.
Bruno has played 76 matches for Flamengo since his debut in September 2006.
Ufarte: 'It was unforgettable to be champion with Fla'
Former Spanish player recalls his time at Rubro-Negro
Ufarte visited Granja Comary this Sunday
LANCEPRESS!
Former Flamengo player José Armando Ufarte, who played for Flamengo from 61 to 64, visited Granja Comary in Teresópolis this Sunday. The current Spain assistant coach received an autographed jersey (number 7) from the players and took the opportunity to reminisce about his time with the club, where he won the state championship in 63.
"It was a remarkable achievement. It was unforgettable. A historic day," said Ufarte, 66.
Vice President of Football Kléber Leite also commented on the former player's visit. He also took the opportunity to reminisce about his time as a radio broadcaster and interviewed Ufarte for the newly created Fla-TV.
"I saw two of his games: one win and one loss. It's a pleasure to have him here visiting us. I even took the opportunity to interview him," Kléber stated.
Joel will give a talk to the girls from the U-17 team
Professor will talk about football with the players this Monday
LANCEPRESS!
Joel Santana, who is leading Flamengo's preseason training at Granja Comary, will give a football talk to the Brazilian U-17 team next Monday afternoon before training. The invitation stems from the Flamengo board's strong relationship with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
As Rubro-Negro is staying at Granja, the players had to stay at another hotel in Teresópolis.
Gavilán struggles to protect himself from injuries
Midfielder tries to protect himself from knee osteoarthritis that is hindering his career
Rodrigo Benchimol SPECIAL ENVOY TO TERESÓPOLIS (RJ)
A self-respecting warrior always wears his armor. Gavilán is no different. The art of combat requires certain procedures that require physical caution. This is especially true for someone with osteoarthritis in his right knee and who almost lost the opportunity to play for Flamengo.
In addition to the recommended care for this problem, he uses devices to protect himself, such as a rubber band to prevent bunions on his foot.
The midfielder is still adapting to the red-black cavalry, but he brings with him the habits of someone who is faithful to his origins and shows courage and confidence to win the "battle" of a renewal for a longer period.
At the end of his first training session at Granja Comary, Gavilán already showed off his customs. He carried two items he uses during training and often during matches: Lycra shorts to minimize muscle fatigue and rubber foot protection.
"It's to prevent bunions. So, I put it between my toes," he explained.
It was his initiative to propose a risk-based contract, renewable every three months. His osteoarthritis requires care, which he follows with the discipline of someone with a tactical role admired by coaches like Joel.
Doctor José Luiz Runco, from Flamengo and the Brazilian National Team, was the one who evaluated Gavilán and explains what should be done.
"He's an extremely conscientious and disciplined player. We monitor his activities to avoid overdoing it, and we also work on stretching," said Runco.
If Gavilán shows the same dedication he uses to take care of himself to protect the defense, the fans have everything to like about their new Paraguayan warrior.
Rodrigo seeks to excel in training
Defender can't wait to get back into shape and play for Flamengo
LANCEPRESS!
Out for about three months, defender Rodrigo is racing against time to regain fitness and be ready in time for Flamengo's State Championship debut against Boavista at the Maracanã stadium. The player is focusing on the preparations being made at Granja Comary:
- I'm training a little beyond my capacity to be well at the end of the month - he says.
The defender has bigger dreams that made him choose to return to Brazil.
- My goal is to be part of the national team. I'm going to train now so that I can reap the rewards later on - he says.
Obina remains confident in Flamengo
The darling of the red-black fans believes he will be a starter again
LANCEPRESS!
Striker Obina is not afraid of the competition in Flamengo's attack in 2008. The player, who was plagued by injuries for much of last season, believes he can regain his place in the team.
"I'll do everything I can to regain my place. I respect the others in the group, but I'll keep my feet on the ground and work to get well and return to the starting lineup, dedicating myself in training and taking advantage of opportunities in games," he says.
Not even speculation about major reinforcements for the red-black attack, such as Ronaldo and Facao García, alters the confidence of the nation's darling.
Angelim could start the year as a starter
Rodrigo should only get into shape at the end of January
LANCEPRESS!\ Since newly signed defender Rodrigo is only expected to be fully fit by the end of January, Ronaldo Angelim could start the year as a starter. However, the player, who is with the group at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis, carrying out preseason, prefers to keep his feet on the ground.\
"We have to work. It's good that Flamengo brings in quality players like Rodrigo. In previous years, things weren't like this, but the competition will be strong, and the problem will fall to Joel Santana. Time will tell who will play. Especially since Joel may opt for a three-defender system.
In addition to these two, Fabio Luciano, Thiago Salles and Rodrigo Arroz are also options for coach Joel Santana.