The Globe
The Adventure of Daddy Joel's 20 New 'Daughters'
Flamengo coach gets emotional while giving a loving talk to the girls on the U-17 team
JOEL AND THE SELECTION: "Many Flamengo players call me daddy, so I can call you daughters"
Carlos Eduardo Mansur
TERESÓPOLIS. Coach Joel Santana has adopted 20 new daughters. On a high note, the sought-after coach of the red-and-black team was moved to tears while giving a talk yesterday at Granja Comary to the newly formed Brazilian women's under-17 team. The girls begin their adventure starting Thursday, when they travel to Chile. There, players from diverse backgrounds, brought together after trials across Brazil, will compete in the first South American Championship for the category.
"My daughters, it's an honor to speak to you. Many Flamengo players call me daddy, so I can call you daughters," Joel joked, giving the players a loving look.
Brazilian born in Florida trades studies for dreams
He has reason to be proud of these pioneers. Brazil has never had a national team in this category recently recognized by FIFA, nor are there any championships in the country. Coach Marcos Gaspar had no base from which to select players. The CBF held trials in several cities and the result was a group of players between the ages of 14 and 16, hailing from Mato Grosso, Bahia, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and even the United States. This is the case with midfielder Adriana Rodrigues, the daughter of Brazilians who left the country for a better job. Born in Florida, where she lives, she speaks Portuguese with difficulty. In two years, she could enroll in an American university, but she would drop everything for the national team.
"My mom saw online that they were selecting girls, so I came to Rio and got in. If the selection goes well and I get a club, I'll come live in Rio. Even though I have the chance to study at a university there. I love soccer," he said.
The adventure began on December 26th. New Year's Eve was celebrated with dinner at Granja, after two training periods.
"I thought some girls would cry. But at midnight they got together and started singing. They were motivational songs," says Gaspar.
The concern was justified. The cast includes three 14-year-old girls. The youngest, Bia, joined the group at 13:
- I've never been away from home for so long. I want to make football my career.
Today, they share the field with Flamengo. Because the South American Championship was postponed and preparations were extended, they had to exchange the Granja, which was loaned to the club, for a hotel.
In the lecture, Joel spoke about overcoming to win:
"I lived in Japan, where there are earthquakes, tsunamis, and winds every day. But they're the second-largest power in the world because they're diligent. That's life. There are winners and losers," the coach said. "In my ignorance, I commented that I didn't even know there were so many girls playing well."
At his farewell, Joel asked each player to say their name and the team they support. He praised the red-and-blacks and joked with a Corinthians fan:
- What a mess, huh.
In the end, before attentive eyes, he said goodbye:
- Thank you very much. My name is Joel Santana, 59 years old in this life.
Next attraction could be Tardelli
Although Palmeiras and Santos are interested in Diego Tardelli, who reported to São Paulo yesterday, Flamengo sees a chance of announcing the striker's signing today. Vice president of football Kleber Leite said he spoke yesterday with Tardelli's agent, Giuliano Bertolucci. The director is scheduled to meet with Ronaldo's agent, Fabiano Farah, today.
Yesterday, in Gávea, Kleber met with agent Eduardo Uram to finalize details of Bruno's new five-year contract, which is expected to be signed today in Teresópolis. The same will happen with right-back Leonardo Moura, who extended his contract until 2011.
Kleber said that Espanyol officials promised to send Jônatas's documentation and the loan agreement today. Flamengo will have a deadline to pay the first installment.
NATIONAL BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
Flamengo faces the home team today at 20 p.m. in Joinville, Santa Catarina, in the second round of the National Men's Basketball Championship. The day before yesterday, both teams debuted with victories in the competition, with Flamengo defeating Lajeado (RS) 83-69, and Joinville defeating Iguaçu (RJ) 94-42. The two defeated teams face each other at 20 p.m. in Lajeado.
Sports Journal
Definitions Day
Jônatas, Bruno and Leonardo Moura are expected to sign their new contracts with Flamengo today.
Nathan de Lima and Thiago Bokel
Monday promised to be full of good news for Flamengo fans, but early in the morning, a dark cloud began to hover over Gávea, and it wasn't the rain forecast that was bothering them. A report in the Spanish newspaper 'Sport' reported that Flamengo's delay in making the first installment of midfielder Jônatas' loan payment was irritating the directors of Espanyol, the club that holds the player's economic rights.
Jônatas was announced as a new signing for the club shortly before Christmas, with the club offering to pay €900 to keep him for the next 18 months. However, at the group's presentation last Thursday, there was an expectation that he would be presented alongside Gavilán and Éder. As the release never arrived, the ceremony was postponed until yesterday. The possible disagreement ended up altering the official announcement once again. For the midfielder's agent, Eduardo Uram, there is no possibility of him returning to Barcelona at this time.
"There's nothing unusual about the transfer. The parties have already reached an agreement and the contract should be arriving soon. I believe it will be by tomorrow at the latest. The transaction was good for everyone, and there's no nervousness on either Espanyol's or Flamengo's part. There's no possibility of him leaving Flamengo now," the agent told Rádio Brasil.
Vice President of Football Kleber Leite issued an official statement on the club's website, stating that they have until next Thursday, the 10th, to make the first installment of the loan. Earlier yesterday evening, the director had already sounded more optimistic about the situation.
"The documentation will arrive tomorrow (today), I'm going straight to Teresópolis to resolve this," Kleber said, implying that Jônatas' presentation could take place today at Granja Comary.
Another topic that promised to have a happy ending yesterday was goalkeeper Bruno's contract renewal. According to the vice president of football, the final details have been finalized, and the number 1 will sign an agreement today to stay with Flamengo for the next five years. The same will happen with right-back Leonardo Moura, who will renew his contract until 2011. The strongman of Flamengo's football confirmed that he will meet today with Fabiano Farah, Ronaldo's agent. When he arrives in Teresópolis today, Kleber Leite should bring with him the relief of an entire nation already agonized by so much uncertainty.
Ibson praises new hires
While the red-and-black defensive duo is practically set with Fábio Luciano and Rodrigo, the midfield is giving coach Joel Santana a major headache. The club signed four players for the position, which already boasted quality players like Ibson, who was named the best right-midfielder in last year's Brazilian Championship.
Ibson said yesterday, after training at Granja Comary, that this start to the season is crucial to securing a starting spot on the team. He stated that all the new signings are top-notch.
"The start of the season is always very complicated. Our coach will have a real headache. We have to focus on working hard, doing our part on the field to maintain our spot. High-quality players have arrived, like Kleberson, a five-time champion, and the experienced Gavilán. I know it will be difficult, but I'll fight," said Ibson.
Despite fighting to be a starter, Ibson made it clear that the fight for the spot will be on the field and reminded that it is important not to have rivalry between players from the same club.
"We need to remain calm, the competition has to be natural, without rivalry. We have to always remember that we play for the same club. The important thing is to help Flamengo. I have to work hard to try to live up to the coach's expectations," he added.
Captain leads the wall
Photos by Jair Motta
Guaranteed to be a starter, Fábio Luciano will be the reference point for the red-black defense in 2008
To build an impenetrable wall, you need a good engineer and good raw materials. This year's Flamengo has all the necessary ingredients to build a solid defense. The engineer is Joel Santana, who, along with his coaching staff, is already planning a way to make the red-and-black defense one of the tightest defenses of the season. The raw materials are abundant, as in addition to Fábio Luciano, who will be the cornerstone of this defensive sector, and his duo, which will likely be Rodrigo, the club also counts on the experience of Ronaldo Angelim, a starter last year, and the youth of Thiago Sales, Rodrigo Arroz, and Nilton.
Although it is almost certain that Joel Santana will start the Campeonato Carioca with Fábio Luciano and Rodrigo as starters, the red-black capital believes that a lot can still change before the start of the competitions.
"We know that no one has a guaranteed seat at Flamengo. Everyone will have to prove themselves on the field; it's a new job, and whoever wants to be a starter will have to earn it. Joel will decide; we have to respect Angelim, Arroz, and Thiago. Regardless of who plays, Flamengo will have a very strong team," Fábio Luciano told Rádio Tupi.
Yesterday afternoon, the red-and-black players had their first contact with the ball in 2008. Before the physical training, held at Granja Comary, the athletes had fun with the now traditional 'roda de bobos', the most lively player was Ibson.
Jaílton does not surrender
When he took over as Flamengo's starting midfielder, Jaílton, was treated with suspicion by the fans, but he gradually established himself and finished the 2007 season on a high note. With Flamengo's new signings, it's very likely that the player will return to the bench, but he doesn't believe there will be any unfair competition and believes that if he works hard, he'll have a chance to remain a starter.
"I'm very calm about it; I'm sure there won't be any bad blood between us. I finished the year as a starter and managed to earn my place at Flamengo through hard work and dedication. I'm going to my second Libertadores, and my goal is to lead Flamengo to win every title we compete for," the player stated.
Fla still dreams of reinforcing the Phenomenon
This Tuesday, Flamengo will continue its task of counting on Ronaldo for the 2008 Copa Libertadores. Flamengo's vice-president of football, Kleber Leite, will meet with Fabiano Farah, the player's agent from Milan (ITA). Kleber preferred not to disclose the time of the meeting or further details about it.
“I’m going to have a meeting tomorrow with Ronaldo’s agent to continue these negotiations,” he summarized.
The player, who is confirmed for Milan's friendly match this Tuesday in the United Arab Emirates, has been excelling in the club's training sessions. The group is currently training for a week in the country, and the striker is recovering from a muscle injury.
Joel gives a talk to players from the U-17 team
Coach Joel Santana left his group of Flamengo players at Granja Comary for a while and gave a 20-minute talk to the Brazilian U-17 team this Monday. The coach gave the players tips and his biggest recommendation was not to be a player like him, who, in a self-critical way, called himself violent.
"These are young women aged 14, 16 who are representing our country. I've never had this kind of experience in my career, a talk for younger players representing our country. It was great, it was wonderful and I'm rooting for them," said Joel.
"Always apply themselves, despite the responsibility. Of course, they have the responsibility to represent the country. We have no reason to wish harm on the athletes. We depend on their performance on the field. Here at Flamengo, the players affectionately call me father because I treat them like sons," said the Flamengo manager.
Mengão's new challenge in the South
Flamengo faces Joinville, coached by Bial, in the second round of the National Basketball Championship
Rafael Oliveira and Pedro Ivo Almeida
Wallace Teixeira
Fred practices his throwing to do well in the match against Joinville
With the excitement of the opening match over, Flamengo will face its second challenge in the National Basketball Championship today. At 20:30 pm, the team will travel to Joinville to face the home team. A victory is crucial for the red-and-black team to return from its mini-tour of the south of the country with a 100% record.
Last Sunday, the Rio de Janeiro team defeated Univates, in Lajeado (RS), by 83 to 69. Joinville beat Iguaçu at home by 94 to 42. Even though they are a dangerous opponent, coach Paulo Chupeta is betting that the team will face fewer difficulties.
"The first game was difficult because we came from a very exhausting trip and had little time to rest. As they were the current Gaucho champions, the fans showed up in force and supported them, which only made things more difficult. But this one will be different because we managed to get to Joinville with more time to spare. Rested and well-trained, Flamengo has everything it needs to play a more relaxed match," he said.
Santa Catarina coach Alberto Bial also believes the red-and-black team will be more dangerous. Despite the easy victory over Iguaçu, the coach was not deluded and admitted that beating Flamengo will be a thankless task.
"Iguaçu felt a lack of chemistry. They played in the State Championship with players from Uberlêndia (MG) and had to put together a team for the National Championship. But with Flamengo, it's different. Their squad is enviable. I know the game is much more for them than for us," he said.
JOINVILLE: Espiga, Douglas Ninja, André, Shilton and Augusto\ Coach: Alberto Bial\
FLAMENGO: Fred, Helio, Marcelinho, Alírio and Coloneze.\ Coach: Paulo Chupeta.\
Location: Joinville Gymnasium (Joinville)\ Time: 20:30 p.m.\ Referee: José Pelissari, Fernando Serpa and Oscar Pereira\
Sergio Du Bocage
Here's What You Wanted!
Feliz 2008
Sergio du Bocage bocage@jsports.com.br
In this first column of the year, I begin by wishing everyone a happy 2008. If 2007 ended well, with a celebratory crowd, may this year confirm the trend toward peace in the stands and may our players reciprocate with more eye-catching football. It's time for an outfield player to be named the best in the Brazilian Championship, for example. For two years, a goalkeeper has received the award, which I find inconceivable. And I'm a goalkeeper, every Wednesday, at Ginástico Clube Português! I have to admit that you can't defend class: if a goalkeeper is named the best in the National Championship two years in a row, it's a sign that our outfield players performed below par.
The year starts with good promise. We'll have a Campeonato Carioca with 16 teams—which isn't good—and with two of them more interested in the Libertadores—which also doesn't help. But Flamengo and Fluminense enter 2008 with much better teams, at least on paper, than those of 2007. And that's a good thing. The fans are impatient, wondering what the starting lineups will be like, still dreaming of more reinforcements. But it's in the Bible: "Take no thought for tomorrow." So, let's give time to time, and especially to the coaches.
On paper, I think Flamengo made the better signing. Joel Santana likes a solid defensive team. A 1-0 scoreline already guarantees victory, and that's how he became the biggest regional champion in Rio. Flamengo is very well-served from midfield forward, and these defensive players scored many goals in 2007. Fluminense is strong defensively and over-developed in attack: three players with the potential to be starters. And the midfield isn't as strong. Renato likes to play forward and recommended the reinforcements. That's why he deserves the credit of trust.
Vasco and Botafogo haven't invested as much, but they could benefit from the shared attention of the Tricolor and Rubro-Negro teams. I could be very wrong, but I believe Beto himself will shine. The black and white duo should also focus on the Copa do Brasil, as five major teams are out of the running. Inter, Grêmio, Corinthians, and Palmeiras will be their strongest opponents, and the crossover of the groups will be decisive in the fate of the Rio de Janeiro team.
On the 19th, the Carioca championship kicks off. Good luck to everyone—fans, players, and coaching staff. As our friend Januário de Oliveira says about good football, "that's what the people like."
O Dia
Diego Hypólito: 'I'm not going to look at anyone this year'
Eager to compete in Beijing, the world gymnastics champion is making plans to shine at the Olympics. His preparations include intensive training and even a special diet.
Danielle Rocha
Rio - Even before Diego Hypólito became the world's best gymnast on the floor, his coach, Renato Araújo, performed daily visualization exercises, seeing his pupil atop the podium. The image that so moved him remains, but the setting is now Beijing. And to see their dream come true, the duo will work hard on new sets on the floor and vault and receive minor medical care.
Last season was tough for the champion. Not only due to the training load and important competitions, but also due to consecutive injuries. During his 19-day vacation, Diego didn't even play football. He chose to travel and disconnect from sports. He celebrated New Year's in Argentina, where he faced unexpected harassment.
How was your downtime? I was exhausted at the end of last season. I wanted to disconnect from everything because I know how difficult this year will be. But the harassment from Brazilians and Argentines in Buenos Aires was senseless! I, however, took care of myself. I didn't gain weight (in 2007, I gained three kilos during the holidays). Now, I want to do a treatment that will show, through blood tests, what's missing in my diet, which will be important for replenishing and faster recovery (and even preventing injuries).
Do you see the need for psychological work to help manage the anxiety of an Olympic year? I'm anxious, but that's because I want to compete soon. I don't know what it'll be like there, but I know I can't let it become a big deal. I've always been very calm and have developed my own emotional work. I've seen Tiago Camilo, a world champion judoka, shut down during competition. (Diego does this while listening to the song "Gladiator," ever since his first world title in 2005). I know I can wake up on a bad day, but I do competition simulations every day in training to prevent anything from going wrong. But I get a lot right, and that gives me a good ticket to the Beijing Olympics.
What will change in your floor routine? Will 'Hypólito' be part of it? It will be much more technical, with many different things and more difficult sequences. I need to present something else. My starting score will be 17. The starting score was 16,70. 'Hypólito' is very difficult and there is a chance of error. If he is included, we will opt for 'Hypólito 2'.
What tournament is the first performance planned for? How many competitions will you compete in during the build-up to Beijing? I want to start the new series in March, when two World Cup stages are scheduled: Lyon and Cottbus. Let's do that test. Before Beijing, there will be four or five tournaments.
Right after the World Pre-Olympics, you said you wanted the chance to train on the same brand of equipment as the one used at the Beijing Games. How will that be done? The equipment we have here at Flamengo is the same as the one used at the World Championships. The one in Beijing will be different. It seems the CBG will buy the equipment that will be used there.
Do you usually follow the performance of your main rivals? I won't be looking at anyone this year. I know what they can offer and that they won't change much. I always change my series at each World Cup. Marian Dragulescu won't change his because he's already reached a very high level. And no one else will emerge either.
JADE IS READY
Four years ago, in Athens, Daiane dos Santos faced nerves as her main adversary. Two mistakes compromised her floor routine and left her off the podium. Despite her youth and never having competed in the Olympics, Jade Barbosa doesn't worry Eliane Martins, the national team supervisor.
"Competing with the possibility of winning is complicated, no matter how controlled the athlete is. But there are different types of athletes: those who are nervous, those who are calmer, and those who enjoy competing. Jade showed that she overcame all of this very well at the Pan American Games and the World Championships," he said.
Jade is already having the opposite effect. Chinese people are showing concern about her progress and are searching for videos of her performances on video sites. Three days after performing the move named after three-time world champion vaulter Fei Cheng, a Chinese journalist called the CBG seeking information.
Jade will have a new solo series and song, as will Laís Souza. The Brazilian repertoire will remain. A change to Daiane's performance is still being considered.
Fla: No reason to stress
Kléber Leite denies problem with Espanyol and confirms signing of Jônatas
Rio - While the players were receiving their first ball experience of the preseason at Granja Comary yesterday, the Flamengo board was getting busy. The Spanish newspaper 'Sport' caused a stir by announcing that Espanyol had not released Jônatas's documentation because Flamengo had delayed the first installment of the loan.
In an official statement, Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, denied the version published by the Spanish newspaper. "In fact, the documentation required to make the payment of this installment, scheduled for January 10th, has not yet reached the Flamengo executives," the statement said.
Businessman Eduardo Uram entered the circuit and secured the player's transfer to Flamengo.
"There are no delays; everything is going according to plan. It's a planned transfer with no problems whatsoever. But, since the news broke, I took the precaution of calling Paco Herrera at Espanyol. They'll send me the contract within a few days. An agreement between Flamengo and Espanyol already exists, and it's being drafted by their legal department. There's no reason for stress or anxiety, not even questioning," Uram stated in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
The Jônatas issue should be resolved today, as well as the renewal of goalkeeper Bruno's contract, for another five years (four, with the option of one more).
"Flamengo opened its doors when I needed it most, and that's why it's a dream to stay at this club. I'm still a young goalkeeper and I want to make history at Gávea. I'm in no rush to go to Europe now. Rogério Ceni is an example of that," said the goalkeeper, eager to renew.
'Big Daddy' Joel mentors under-17 girls
If it worked for the big guys, why not try it for the girls? With this in mind, coach Joel Santana accepted the invitation and gave a talk to the girls of the U-17 team yesterday at Granja Comary.
'Professor' Joel's class lasted 20 minutes. At the end, he posed for photos with the girls and kissed the team captain. And, like a father figure, he regretted not giving them all a kiss, which could have sparked a jealous rage within the team.
"Oh, just pretend I kissed them all," he apologized. Restrained in his words, Joel Santana emphasized the disciplinary issue, recalling that, during his playing days, he had resorted to violence: "I realized that wasn't working very well, so I decided to study to try my hand at coaching."
Another topic Joel addressed in his conversation with the girls — aged 14 to 16 — was the relationship between soccer players and coaches.
"We don't have to wish harm on the athletes. We depend on their performance on the field. Here at Flamengo, the players affectionately call me "Dad" because I treat them all like sons," he emphasized.
Before concluding the talk, he asked the girls to share their names, hometowns, and favorite teams. And, drawing laughter, he congratulated those who claimed to support Flamengo.
Sports Gazette
Bruno will renew for five years\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo will acquire 75% of goalkeeper Bruno's economic rights. The club will pay 2,5 million euros (approximately R$6,5 million) and intends to sign the player to a five-year contract, putting an end to a long-running saga. The player reported to Teresópolis despite not renewing his contract and now hopes to have more peace of mind to work. For Bruno, after putting his name to the matter, he will dedicate himself even more to helping the club win titles, with the Libertadores Cup as a priority. "My goal is to win every competition. If we repeat what we did last year, I'm sure success will come," he declared.
The goalkeeper, as well as the rest of the group, should start working with the ball this Tuesday, since on Thursday the team plays the first friendly of the year, facing the Nicaraguan national team, at Granja Comary.
This will be coach Joel Santana's first opportunity to observe the players' current form, especially that of the new signings. Another training match is scheduled for next Sunday against the Benin national team. The Guanabara Cup debut will take place on the 20th, against Boavista.
Prosecutor denies Jônatas' return to Espanyol
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Eduardo Uram, agent of midfielder Jônatas, denied on Monday morning that Espanyol is threatening to cancel the player's loan to Flamengo. According to the Spanish newspaper Sport, the Rubro-Negro club had not paid the first installment of the transaction to the Barcelona team, which is reportedly considering demanding the player's return if the impasse continues. "There is nothing unusual about the transfer. There is an agreement between the parties. The contract should arrive this Monday or Tuesday, as people in Spain also extended their holiday season. However, there is no possibility of the player leaving Flamengo," the agent assured in an interview with Rádio Brasil.
Eduardo Uram also assured that the relationship between Flamengo and Espanyol is not compromised by the Rio de Janeiro club's alleged delay in paying Jônatas' loan. "That doesn't exist. The transaction was good for everyone. Everything is going according to plan, and there's no nervousness on the part of Espanyol or Flamengo," he concluded.
PeléNet
Fla resolves Bruno, Léo Moura and Jônatas' "soap operas" this Tuesday
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
This Tuesday will be a day of final decisions at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, where Flamengo is conducting its preseason training. After a long saga, the issues involving goalkeeper Bruno, right-back Leonardo Moura, and midfielder Jônatas, all represented by Eduardo Uram, will finally be properly resolved. At least that's what Flamengo's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, has announced.
"Everything has progressed very well. The Espanyol situation, involving Jônatas, was their decision (Espanyol), but they will sort everything out tomorrow (Tuesday). So, tomorrow Eduardo Manhães (football director) will go to Granja with Uram and finalize this. The case of Bruno and Léo Moura as well," explained the director.
Of all the situations, the most complex was that of Jônatas, who will sign an 18-month loan deal with Flamengo. On Monday morning, reports emerged in Spain that Espanyol was angry with the Gávea club over the delay in paying the first installment of the US$1 million loan. The situation, however, was clarified shortly thereafter by Kleber Leite.
Regarding Bruno, everything was already in place, with only the signing of the contract remaining, which will last five years (four years with the possibility of renewal for another year). Leonardo Moura's situation is similar.
Fla may have news about Ronaldo and Tardelli this Tuesday
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
Flamengo is still searching for a striker to partner Souza in 2008. Ronaldo of Milan and Diego Tardelli of São Paulo are still at the top of the list. According to Flamengo vice-president Kleber Leite, there are new players in both cases.
Regarding the Phenomenon, a meeting between the director and the striker's agent, Fabiano Farah, this Tuesday could bring good news. Diego's situation is back on track, and an agreement may be reached soon.
"I'll talk to Ronaldo's agent tomorrow (Tuesday) and we'll discuss this. But it'll just be a chat," Kleber said, adding.
"Regarding Diego, we talked about it today (Monday) and it has progressed satisfactorily. We will continue working on it this week," explained the director.
Despite all the excitement surrounding Ronaldo, the outlook isn't very favorable. Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti said Monday that the striker will participate in Tuesday's friendly against the United Arab Emirates in Dubai, where the Milan team is conducting a week of training.
The coach also reiterated that Flamengo's interest doesn't worry him at all. According to Ancelotti, the Phenomenon's desire has always been to remain with the Italian club.
Flamengo changes opponent for training match
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
Flamengo's training match scheduled for Sunday at 15:30 PM (Brasília time) at Granja Comary in Teresópolis has changed opponents. Instead of the Benin national team, the red-and-blacks will face Huracán-URU. The reasons for the change have not yet been disclosed.
The match will be a good test for the team, which has already confirmed a Uruguayan opponent in the first stage of the Copa Libertadores: Nacional. Wanderers is another Uruguayan club that could face Flamengo, but only if they get past Cienciano-PER.
Before the duel with Huracán, however, Joel Santana's team has another challenge: the Nicaraguan national team, the team's first real test this year.
Ibson: "Fla has to win titles this year"
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
There's a consensus at Flamengo that the team carries a great responsibility in 2008. Backed by their performance in the last Brazilian Championship (third place) and also by the signings made, the fans are already thinking about achievements. And the players are not shying away from the pressure.
One of the team's key players and a Flamengo idol, Ibson knows that the weight of victories will soon fall on the entire squad. Therefore, he's unafraid to state that he and his teammates have a duty to lift trophies. And that it should be as soon as possible.
"This year we have to win titles. For everything we've done and for the team we have. And we need to start looking for that in the State Championship," the supporter emphasized.
Captain Fábio Luciano also faces the pressure for results head-on. The defender believes the team has made a commitment to the fans.
"Our team was already very good and with the reinforcements it became even better. So, we have to respond. What awaits us is certainly a very special year," he said.
At Fla, players miss the ball in a "fool's circle"
Bruno Rousso\ In Teresópolis\
After three days of preseason training at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, Flamengo's players finally got back in touch with the ball on Monday afternoon. The contact wasn't the most lasting, but it helped ease the longing.
Shortly before the start of physical training, the group formed a lively "bobo" circle, led by midfielder Jônatas and right-back Leonardo Moura. The joy, however, was short-lived.
The game was just to loosen up the players' muscles, who then returned to the "hands" of physical trainer Ronaldo Torres, who has been working hard on the activities.
All the suffering, however, will come to an end this Tuesday, when coach Joel Santana officially kicks things off. On Thursday, at 15 p.m. (Brasília time), the team faces a training match against the Nicaraguan national team.
BalloonSport
Flamengo delegation on the way to Teresópolis
The goal of the red-black club's board is to regularize the players' contracts
Thiago Lavinas
Without a contract, Jônatas is already participating in Flamengo's training sessions at Granja
Smoothing things over. It's with this in mind that a Flamengo delegation will travel to Teresópolis this Tuesday. Composed primarily of members of the club's legal department, the group will arrive at Granja Comary with player contracts that have outstanding issues. The two main cases are goalkeeper Bruno and midfielder Jônatas.
Bruno's contract renewal has been in the works for some time, but the terms have not yet been made official. The club will officially purchase 80% of the goalkeeper's economic rights for €2,5 million (R$6,5 million) and secure his five-year contract. The number 1's agent, Eduardo Uram, will be in Teresópolis.
Flamengo's board also scheduled the signing of Jônatas' contract. The player continues to train with the group, but the official presentation has not yet taken place. As he will be involved in negotiations to sign Ronaldo, the club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, will not be present, but warns that only details remain to be finalized to finalize the entire squad.
"Tomorrow we'll finalize all the contracts, especially Bruno and Jônatas'. Everything's already been sorted out, and now we just need to put it on paper, which will be handled by our legal department," he says.
Fla says deadline for Jônatas ends on the 10th
Rubro-Negro denies information that it would owe the first installment to Espanyol
Jônatas continues training normally with the rest of the red-black team
Flamengo denied in an official statement the delay in paying the first installment of Jônatas' loan. This Monday, the Catalan newspaper "Sport" published a note on its website titled: "Flamengo doesn't pay, and Jônatas can return."
The release of the information in Brazil caused deep unease among Flamengo's board. According to Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, the club has until the 10th to make the first installment payment.
He added that Flamengo has not yet deposited the money because the Spanish club has not sent the necessary documentation for the debt.
Jônatas continues training normally with his teammates at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis.
Joel becomes 'dad' of the U-17 team
Flamengo coach gives talk to girls at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis
Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis
Joel gives a talk to the girls on the national team
The Brazilian U-17 team received 20 minutes of instruction from Joel Santana on Monday afternoon at Granja Comary. The Flamengo coach chatted, posed for photos, and even gave the captain a kiss.
- Pretend I gave them all a little kiss - he jokes.
During the chat, the red-and-black coach even forgot his catchphrases. He preferred to focus on the importance of discipline for the players' development. He also recalled that, as an athlete, he was somewhat violent.
- I saw that it wasn't working out very well and decided to study to become a coach.
The girls—all between 14 and 16 years old—watched the Flamengo coach's teachings attentively. He emphasized the importance of the relationship between players and coaches.
"We have no reason to wish you (the athletes) ill. We depend on your performance on the field. Here at Flamengo, the players affectionately call me 'Dad' because I treat them like sons," he declares.
At the end of the talk, he asked all the girls to share their names, hometowns, and team. The Flamengo fans, of course, received a congratulations.
Kléberson rediscovers the life of a nomad
Player returns to training routine and son still complains about his father's absence
Eduardo Peixoto From GLOBOESPORTE.COM, in Teresópolis
Kléberson shows off his tattoos to his family. The player enjoys his training routine.
Kléberson has been at Flamengo since October. But only now, in January, is he experiencing the routine of training camps and travel for the first time. And he's enjoying it.
When he arrived, the player could not be registered for the Brazilian Championship because, in addition to the window being closed, he still had to serve a four-month suspension for unilaterally breaking his contract with Besiktas.
With a life devoted solely to training, he was able to dedicate himself to his wife, Daiane, and his four-year-old son, Klebinho. He took the opportunity to explore Rio de Janeiro better, leaving the hotel, and moving into an apartment in Barra da Tijuca.
But now his debut is approaching. He will be released in early February for his first match with the Red-Blacks. In the meantime, he's participating in preseason training in Teresópolis and trying to make his son understand that his absences are necessary.
"Klebinho is only four years old, right? So he complains a lot, saying I need to go back soon. But I talk to him and Daiane a lot on the phone. She knows the sacrifice is part of it," says the player.
To disguise his longing, Kléberson shows off his tattoos honoring his family. On his right arm, Daiana; on his right, Klebinho. And more are on the way.
"Now I can still show off my tattoos for photos. But when I get Daphine's, it's going to get complicated," says the player, referring to his wife's pregnancy.
Fábio Luciano praises his defensive teammates
Captain says coach Joel Santana is very well served for the season
Fábio Luciano is optimistic about the Fla group for the season that is beginning
Defender Fábio Luciano highlights the strength of the squad that Flamengo is putting together for 2008. For the captain, coach Joel Santana is very well served, including in his sector, the defense.
"We have to respect Angelim, Arroz, Thiago Sales, and young Nílton. Whoever plays will give the team enough strength to achieve victories," he says.
Regarding the retention of most of the players and the arrival of reinforcements, the defender also shows confidence.
"It's only fair that the core of the team remains. Almost 100% of them stayed, and the necessary pieces arrived for the coach, which were very well received by all of us. This group is responsible and confident," he states.
Ronaldo soap opera gets a new chapter
In the United Arab Emirates, the striker is confirmed for a Milan friendly
Thiago Lavinas
Ronaldo in Milan training. The striker receives praise for his dedication. Read on! Tuesday promises to be another day of anticipation for Flamengo fans. The club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, is still working on the "task force" to count on Ronaldo for the 2008 Copa Libertadores. The director will meet with the player's agent, Fabiano Farah, from Milan (ITA), in Gávea. The time of the meeting was not disclosed, and Kléber declined to give details about the conversation.
- I'm going to have a meeting tomorrow with Ronaldo's agent to continue these negotiations - he summarizes.
Meanwhile, the striker is excelling in the Italian club's training sessions and will take to the field this Tuesday for a friendly against the UAE national team in Dubai. The team is currently training for a week in the country, while the Phenomenon is recovering from a muscle injury.
Fla faces Joinville in the National Championship
The second round game takes place this Tuesday, at 20 pm, in the city of Santa Catarina
Marcelinho is Flamengo's main name for the National Championship
After beating Lajeado (83 to 69) in its debut, Flamengo continues in the south of the country and enters the court on Tuesday night, the 8th, to face Joinville at Ginásio Ivan Rodrigues, starting at 20 pm, in the city of Santa Catarina, in a game of the second round of the 2008 Men's National Basketball Championship (CNBM).
For winger Marcelinho Machado, captain of the red-black team, the Rio team has another tough challenge ahead of them, against an opponent that plays at home and has experienced players like Espiga, Shilton and Thiagão.
"Joinville is one of the best teams in the league, and even stronger when playing at home. We're still early in the competition, and the teams don't know each other very well, but we know their playing style and the characteristics of some players. They're coming off a good win over Iguaçu, have a strong frontcourt, and good shooters. We need to have a well-positioned defense that doesn't give them space to try to reduce their play," says the winger.
Aware of the difficulties the Santa Catarina team will face this Tuesday, center Shilton takes the opportunity to call on the fans. According to him, the support of the crowd at the Ivan Rodrigues gym is crucial for the team to secure another victory.
"We're aware that Flamengo is the favorite, but we're prepared to win and hope to count on the support of our fans to pull off a surprise. The red-and-black team has a great squad, as well as Marcelinho, the Championship's biggest star. We need to defend very well to neutralize their plays and try to get them out of position," he says.
Throw
Fla hopes to resolve Jônatas case this Tuesday
Léo Moura and Bruno's renewals are also this week's priorities
Jônatas is one of the reinforcements for the Libertadores (Credit: Gilvan de Souza)
LANCEPRESS!
The news from the Spanish newspaper "Sport" that Flamengo had not yet paid the first installment for Jônatas came as a bombshell in Gávea. While the player trains at Granja Comary, the board is trying to resolve his bureaucratic situation, which involves receiving the necessary documentation and making the payment to Espanyol. The directors hope to resolve everything this Tuesday and officially present the player on Wednesday. LANCE! learned that the value of this first installment is 300 euros—approximately R$777,2—(two other installments of similar amounts are still pending).
Outraged by the news, the vice president of football, Kléber Leite, issued an official statement saying that the 10th of this month was the date set for payment of this amount.
"I spoke with Paco Herrera (Espanyol director), who apologized for the delay in sending the documentation, which should arrive tomorrow (Tuesday). It's absurd to say that Flamengo didn't pay without the documents having arrived," he said.
Kléber met yesterday (Monday) to iron out the rough edges of the Jônatas case and the renewals of Bruno and Léo Moura. The contracts will be sent to Granja today for signing, with the three men's manager, Eduardo Uram, in attendance.
LANCE! learned that, like Jônatas, Flamengo couldn't find the money to pay the goalkeeper's first installment. But his situation is much better than that of the midfielder, despite the amount being almost double.
To acquire 80% of Bruno's rights, the club will invest three million euros. The first installment is set at 700 euros and is expected to be paid off soon.
The important thing for the board is that everyone is regularized by the debut in Carioca (day 20).
Basketball: Fla faces Joinville this Tuesday
Chupeta predicts a good performance against coach Alberto Bial's team
STAR OF THE FUTURE
Flamengo started the National Men's Basketball Championship on the right foot. The team traveled to Lajeado and easily defeated the home team last Sunday. The Rubro-Negro's next challenge is against Joinville in Santa Catarina this Tuesday, and coach Paulo Chupeta expects an even better performance from his players.
"The team played well, but felt a bit tired. Now that we're rested, we'll be able to perform better against Joinville," said the coach.
Winger Marcelinho Machado, who was the top scorer in Flamengo's debut in the National Championship, with 26 points, believes that the team from Gávea still has a lot to improve to win the unprecedented national basketball title.
"We still lack rhythm, but we'll get there with the succession of games. We started very poorly against Lajeado, but we recovered. We have to improve with each game to reach our highest level. We know we're not performing at our best yet, which is normal in these first few games," he analyzed.
Technical Sheet\ Joinville x Flamengo\
Second Round of the 2008 National Basketball Championship\ Date: 08/01/2008\ Time: 20:XNUMX p.m.\ Location: Joinville Gymnasium (SC)\ Referee: José Pelissari, Fernando Serpa and Oscar Pereira\
Coach: Alberto Bial.\ Flamengo: Fred, Hélio, Marcelinho, Alírio and Coloneze. Coach: Paulo Chupeta.\
Fla moves to get Ronaldo as soon as possible
Kléber Leite says he will meet with the Phenomenon's manager this Tuesday
Breno Dines Costa IN RIO
Vice President of Football Kléber Leite said he will meet with striker Ronaldo's agent, Fabiano Farah, this Tuesday to try to make the Phenomenon's signing possible as quickly as possible.
"I'm going to have a meeting with Ronaldo's agent to follow up on this delicate matter. A presentation of concepts will be made to understand what the player wants in coming to Flamengo," he declared.
Regarding striker Diego Tardelli, Kléber Leite confirmed contact with São Paulo directors and the player's agent and does not rule out an agreement this Tuesday.
Flamengo presents its 'selectable' players
At least six red-blacks are looking forward to wearing the yellow jersey
Rodrigo Benchimol IN TERESÓPOLIS
It's become commonplace among players and fans to say that Flamengo has assembled a strong team. This can be proven with a more detailed assessment, where six players with real potential to make the national team can be identified. Bruno, Leonardo Moura, Rodrigo, Jônatas, Ibson, and Renato Augusto (Olympic) live up to this expectation, leaving the team in a position it hasn't seen in years.
After all, it's been a while since Flamengo started a season with so many players capable of making the national team. Before leaving Gávea, Jônatas was even mentioned by Dunga in his first call-up as coach. But at Espanyol, he wasn't mentioned, and now he lives with that expectation. Something similar happened to Rodrigo, who came close to realizing his dream at São Paulo. Until he left for Ukraine and "disappeared."
– We have a whole year ahead of us to achieve the goal that everyone has in their career – said the defender.
Awarded for their performance in the last Brazilian Championship, Léo Moura and Ibson also have their names on the list of eligible players. Bruno missed out on the award in 2007 (causing complaints from many), but he's also on the list. All of these are the result of the retained core, which makes Flamengo a favorite for 2008.
– I dream of the National Team and, because the group is stronger, Dunga ends up having to watch our games a little more – joked Bruno.
Renato Augusto, who is in a slightly different situation, is competing to be selected for the Beijing Olympics. But playing up front could hinder him, despite Dunga's love for versatile players.
– The injuries in 2007 and playing out of position complicated things a bit, but I still dream – he said.