THE GLOBE
After suffering and losing his place in the Libertadores, Caio leaves Flamengo \ Club and manager of coach agree to amicable termination of contract \ Photo caption: CAIO JUNIOR in Gávea: coach ended his time at Fla yesterday \ After becoming the first coach to start and finish a Brazilian Championship as Flamengo's coach since 1999, Caio Júnior's tenure at Gávea officially ended yesterday. A meeting between his agent, João Francisco, and Flamengo's directors resulted in an agreement for the coach's departure. \ In July, with the team leading the Brazilian Championship, Caio Júnior received an offer to leave Flamengo. The board understood that keeping him was a top priority and extended his contract until December 2009, with a R$600 release clause. Now, after deciding to leave Caio, who is also being approached by Japan, the club and coach have announced an amicable termination. \ Parreira gives priority \ to Flamengo \ Caio Júnior led the team for 38 games, winning 18, drawing ten, and losing ten. Losing a spot in the Libertadores, something Kleber Leite called "inconceivable," was merely the trigger for the end of the relationship. Caio was critical of Flamengo's work regime. At Gávea, pressure on the board for his departure was high due to the team's inconsistent performance in the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship. Today, a meeting between Flamengo's football management and president Márcio Braga will outline the next steps. \ Coveted by other clubs, Carlos Alberto Parreira, Flamengo's target for the position of technical coordinator and possibly coach, has announced that he intends to prioritize Flamengo, which approached him first. After an initial meeting with Márcio Braga, he is expected to return to talks with the club before the end of this week. \ Defender Renato Silva, who was of interest to Flamengo, is expected to go abroad, according to his agent. \
SPORTS JOURNAL
A third championship is the priority for 2009
Rio de Janeiro - As expected, after the melancholic farewell to the Brazilian Championship and the failure to secure a place in next year's Libertadores, Flamengo's Board of Directors has already set its priority for 2009: the third state championship, which, if achieved, will be the fifth in Flamengo's history (42/43/44, 53/54/55, 78/79/79 and 99/00/01 were won previously). \ Furthermore, another factor is on the minds of the executives regarding the upcoming Carioca. If they lift the trophy, Flamengo will become the club with the most titles in the competition, surpassing Fluminense and reaching 31. \ And the red-and-black club bosses have a special reason to be confident. In recent years, the club's dominance in Rio de Janeiro has been evident. Of the last ten editions of the Campeonato Carioca, Flamengo has won six (99, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2007, and 2008).\ Lift your head\ For Marcelinho Paraíba, the goal of winning a third state championship is an excellent reason for Flamengo's squad to lift their heads and be motivated at the start of the next season. He says failing to qualify for the Libertadores is a source of sadness, but not enough to discourage the team from competing in the upcoming competitions.\ "We were a little disappointed that we didn't make it to the Libertadores, but we have to lift our heads. Now, we'll be able to reflect a lot until 2009 to help the club win titles. We've learned that we can never relax," he comments.\ The squad went on vacation yesterday. The preseason training session is scheduled for January 7th, at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, the Brazilian national team's training base.\
Caio Júnior is out of Flamengo
Parreira becomes a priority for the board
Vinicius Castro
Rio de Janeiro - What had already been decided officially became reality on Monday night. After a series of meetings involving Flamengo's top brass, coach Caio Júnior's departure from Flamengo was announced. Vice-president of football Kleber Leite, director Eduardo Manhães, and collaborator Plínio Serpa Pinto were together throughout Monday. Caio Júnior's departure was finalized in the first meeting of the day. However, nothing was announced before the conversation between Kleber Leite and the coach's attorney, João Francisco, at the manager's company headquarters.
At the meeting, the two parties reached an agreement that no termination fee will be charged. Caio Júnior will receive the outstanding November and December salaries, as well as his thirteenth salary and proportional vacation pay. The coach's contract was originally scheduled to run until December 2009. However, the difficulties of dealing with the "pressure cooker" Flamengo meant his time at Gávea was cut short.
Vice President of Football, Kleber Leite, commented on the coach's departure.
"Caio is definitely out. Both parties have reached an agreement and now we're going to sort things out. This Tuesday, I'm going to meet with Plínio (football contributor) and president Marcio Braga to decide on a replacement," he explained over the phone to Jornal dos Sports.
Parreira on the agenda
Kleber Leite confirmed Flamengo's interest in former Brazilian national team coach Carlos Alberto Parreira to take over as the club's football coordinator. However, he didn't rule out the possibility of him playing on the sidelines next season.
"Marcio has already been in contact with him. Parreira is one of the names and we're going to try to reach an agreement. Initially, he was supposed to be the football coordinator, but I'm not ruling him out as a coach," he concludes.
At Tuesday's meeting, the name of the club's new coach for next season may be announced. Parreira will lead a forum for soccer coaches in Rio de Janeiro this Tuesday and Wednesday and has a meeting scheduled with president Marcio Braga for next Thursday. In addition to former Brazilian national team coach Dorival Júnior, Cuca and Renato Gaúcho are also being considered at Gávea.
Ibson on 2009: 'We have to go for the title'
Rio de Janeiro - Ibson was also present at the 2008 Brasileirão Player of the Year awards ceremony. Competing with Diego Souza and Tcheco, the Rubronegro midfielder spoke about Flamengo's year. When asked what needs to be improved in 2009, Ibson was blunt: "We have to go for the title." \ "We have to go after the Brazilian Championship title, which won't be easy, as it's going to be a very competitive tournament. We have to have a good preseason and do well in the Carioca Championship to start the Brazilian Championship with a bang," he says.\
Fla dreams of more investment
After winning the State title, Rubro-Negro intends to professionalize its futsal team
Thiago Barros and Eduardo Vieira
Rio de Janeiro - The 2008 season is coming to an end, but the Flamengo futsal team's thoughts are already on 2009. Amidst the celebrations for the state title, won last Friday in Cabo Frio, players and fans are asking themselves: will the sport receive the necessary investment next year and move towards professionalism?\ If it's up to the Flamengo board, yes. Futsal director Tito says that's exactly what Flamengo expects. However, he assures that, whether it happens or not, the happiness and pride in defending the colors of Brazil's most beloved club speak louder than anything else.\ "We expect this improvement. I fight hard here at Flamengo to gain recognition and receive greater investment, for the benefit of the club itself. But I often tell the athletes that, even in the face of difficulties, Flamengo is always worth it. We will always fight, no matter how much, how little, how little. We will be here happy and always striving for the best," he explains.\ Winger/defensive midfielder Michel Marques agrees. The player, who was one of the standouts in the State Championship final against Cabo Frio, warns that only a "perfect" offer can lure him away from Gávea. Despite all the difficulties, he says that his priority, as well as that of the entire group, is to remain at Flamengo. "Honestly, to get me away from Flamengo, it has to be a very good offer. I'm very happy here, and so is the entire group, regardless of the difficulties. But of course, our expectation is that everything will improve next year, as much as possible," says Michel.\ Decisions at the base\ It's worth remembering that 2008 isn't over yet for Flamengo's futsal. The youth teams still have decisive matches to play in the coming weekends. As the women's champion, the Fraldinha champion, the U-20 champion, and the Ricardo Lucena Cup champion in the first half of the year, as well as the Adult State Championship in the second, Flamengo continues its quest for more titles.\ "For us, the year isn't over yet. We view the youth team as very important too. We have the U-20 final on Friday, and on Saturday and Sunday we have the U-17, U-13, U-11, and U-9 semifinals. We'll work until the 21st, God willing, to reach the finals. Only then will we evaluate the season, but I can say in advance that this year has been very good for us," concludes Tito.\
THE DAY
Caio Júnior is no longer Fla's coach \ Fla announces termination without fine and confirms interest in Parreira as coordinator \
Rio - What was expected happened. This Monday night, after a day of meetings, the board officially announced Caio Júnior's departure from Flamengo's management, after seven months in the role and the frustration of failing to qualify for the Copa Libertadores, in addition to the significant friction between members of the coaching staff and directors. Vice-president of football Kléber Leite confirmed his interest in Carlos Alberto Parreira, but only as a coordinator. According to him, the new coach will be introduced in the coming days.
Click here and choose the 2008 Brasileirão team
"Caio is out. We've reached a termination agreement. He has an offer from abroad and will take three months off," said Kléber Leite, who will meet with president Márcio Braga today to discuss the new coach. Caio's contract ran until December 2009. \ The director assured that the decision to leave Caio was mutually agreed upon, avoiding the club having to pay R$600. The meeting was with the coach's agent, João Francisco. The former Flamengo manager's destination is expected to be Vissel Kobe in Japan. \ In 38 games, Caio had the following campaign: 18 wins, ten draws and ten losses, with 56% of the points disputed in the Brasileirão. \ For the board, Caio didn't have the drive to motivate the team in the final stretch of the championship, created friction in internal relationships and didn't know how to use the reinforcements he asked the board for. \ On Sunday, after the defeat to Atlético-PR, Caio Júnior criticized the lack of structure and the overexposure he had at Gávea, in addition to questioning Márcio Braga's many statements. \ PARREIRA COORDINATOR\ Kléber Leite confirmed that the club is considering Carlos Alberto Parreira as coordinator. The deal could be finalized as early as this week. For the coach, names like Cuca, Joel Santana, and Dorival Júnior have already been considered. "That's football. Everything is decided based on the team's results. It's part of it," said Ronaldo Angelim.\
Kléber Leite guarantees changes in 2009
Rio - Flamengo vice-president Kléber Leite analyzed the club's 2008 season on Monday and admitted that the club is experiencing internal problems. He also admitted that Flamengo will undergo changes in 2009.
"If the year wasn't wonderful, it wasn't without any surprises either. We won the second Rio de Janeiro championship, we were leaders of the Brazilian championship for a while and we were very close to qualifying for the 2009 Libertadores. But life goes on. We will certainly start 2009 with some changes," he told Rádio Globo.
SPORTS GAZETTE
Flamengo confirms the departure of Caio Júnior
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo announced that Caio Júnior will no longer manage the team. The confirmation came after a meeting between president Kleber Leite and the coach's attorney, João Francisco. Both parties reached an agreement, and there will be no termination fee.
Caio Júnior's contract with Flamengo ended at the end of 2009, but the atmosphere between the former coach, fans, and management was not the best. Even before the end of the competition, Caio's departure from Gávea was clear. crowd protested against the coach's work and the board was dissatisfied with the team's drop in performance in the final stretch of the Brasileirão.
However, the coach won't be unemployed for long, as Caio is very close to signing with Vissel Kobe in Japan. Caio Júnior's replacement at Flamengo has not yet been confirmed, but Carlos Alberto Parreira was widely speculated on Monday. Another strong candidate is Cuca, who hasn't worked since his dismissal from Fluminense. Another option is for the two to work together: Parreira as technical coordinator and Cuca as treinador.
Caio Júnior arrived at Flamengo on May 8, 2008, replacing Joel Santana, who accepted an invitation to coach the South African national team. When he took the position, the team was about to make its debut in the Brazilian Championship.
Before their debut, the team suffered a severe setback in the Copa Libertadores. In the round of 3, they were defeated 0-4 by América of Mexico, and were eliminated, despite winning the first leg, away from home, 2-XNUMX.
After a strong start, the team experienced some instability in the Brazilian Championship. Key players, such as attacker Marcinho, were sold to foreign clubs midway through the championship, which contributed to the end of their run of positive results. In the end, Caio Júnior leaves Gávea with a record of 38 games, 18 wins, 10 draws, and 10 losses.
Flamengo fans arrive at the awards ceremony with a “bitter taste”\ Paulo Amaral, special envoy\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - Flamengo had five nominations for the Craque do Brasileirão award, but, upon arriving at the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro, where the awards ceremony will take place, the candidates could not forget the defeat to Atlético-PR and the consequent fifth place, outside the qualifying zone for the Copa Libertadores.
"It leaves a bitter taste, a frustration, because we had a qualified group, but we have to learn from our mistakes. We, even though we're the oldest, continue to learn. We have room for improvement, and I hope we do so in 2009," said Captain Fábio Luciano, a contender for best player. defender.
Due to a suspension, Ibson couldn't even try to avoid the 5-3 defeat at Arena da Baixada. To avoid another bitter taste for next season, the player urged the club to plan ahead.
"If you don't have a very good plan, these things end up happening. I was at home suffering, I was very sad, but it was difficult to win there (in Curitiba). Now, it's time to think about 2009 to be better," said the player, who could be named to the team of the tournament as a midfielder. Right-back Léo Moura doesn't think differently.
“This year could have been better, we didn't deserve to be left out of the Libertadores, but football has these things. surprises"We have to keep a cool head and stay calm. We left with our duty fulfilled, because we did our part: we went to try for the title and didn't manage it, but we have to rest, to start 2009 on the right foot," he said.
Even after losing his place, the red-black captain says he wants to stay\ Gazeta Press\
Rio de Janeiro (RJ) - With his contract ending at the end of the year, defender Fábio Luciano has not yet decided whether he will stay at Flamengo, move to the United States, or hang up his boots for good.
The player was one of the most frustrated when leaving the Arena da Baixada pitch, where Flamengo was defeated by Atlético-PR and was left without a place in the Libertadores, but he guaranteed that the absence in the competition does not interfere with your decision.
"It's not because of this (missing out of the Libertadores) that I'm going to change my mind. It's a family decision, but there are a lot of things that weigh in Flamengo's favor," he said, listing the club's positive points.
"The way I was welcomed here, the affection on the streets, the identification with the club... I really enjoyed working with this group here and that weighs in Flamengo's favor," concluded the Fla captain.
PELENET
Fla-2008: bold dreams turned into a series of disappointments
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
2008 was a promising year. Flamengo's board invested in building a strong squad and excited the fans. Goalkeeper Bruno, retained thanks to an investment of approximately five million euros (around R$14 million), designed a title-winning team. "The team is strong, and with the reinforcements, it's even better. The goal is to be champion. And we'll fight for it from the first to the last competition," said the number 1 during the preseason in January at Granja Comary.
However, the end of the season didn't translate expectations into reality. The dream of winning the Copa Libertadores was dashed prematurely, and in the Brazilian Championship, the team didn't even qualify for the next edition of the continental competition.\ Initially, however, Bruno's predictions seemed correct. In the first championship, success arose. With 1-0 and 3-1 victories in the two decisive matches, Flamengo won the state championship over rival Botafogo. Excitement filled Gávea. The fans were thrilled and already saw a second Libertadores title as a possibility. But the first major disappointment of the season was yet to come.\ After a strong showing in the first stage, the Red-Black team reached the round of 4 as favorites. In the first match, they defeated América-MEX 2-XNUMX away from home. Progress to the next stage was seen as a given. So much so that on the eve of the second leg, the Red-Black team's training camp was reportedly thrilled by the visit of a famous samba singer. But the festivities had to end.\ On May 7th, the team took to the Maracanã pitch in a celebratory atmosphere and paid tribute to coach Joel Santana, who was leaving the club to take over the South African national team. Cabañas & Co. didn't dampen the excitement. The Paraguayan striker led the Mexican team to a surprising 3-0 victory. The 'Maracanazo' culminated in Flamengo's exit from the continental competition, considered the year's main objective.\ With the departure of the idolized Joel, the board decided to hire Caio Júnior. During his presentation, days before the tragedy, the future coach demonstrated that he was well-versed in the excitement at Gávea. "I arrive here knowing that I'm at risk of becoming world champion," he said at the time. \ With his first dream dashed, Caio had to reinvent an emotionally shattered squad. The first challenge—with the Maracanã stadium behind closed doors—was Santos on May 11th. The 3-1 victory eased the depression. Nicknamed "Harry Potter" because of his resemblance to the character from the bestselling book turned film, the coach worked magic and restored the group's morale. With eye-catching football, the team led the Brazilian Championship for eleven rounds.\ But the board's lack of planning was more powerful than Caio's spells. To raise funds, the club's management traded midfielder Renato Augusto (Bayer Leverkusen-GER) and forwards Marcinho (Qatar S. C-QAT) and Souza (Panathinaikos-GR). The result: freefall.\ The league leader became the competition's punching bag, going seven rounds without a win. Of the 21 points up for grabs, they only earned two. The top spot was replaced by seventh place. That's when the board decided to "catch up." Vice-president of football Kleber Leite opened the coffers and signed Marcelinho Paraíba, Vandinho, Josiel, Sambueza, and Fierro, among others.\ The reinforcements didn't shine as expected, but the team bounced back. Soon, they were back in contention for the top spots and rekindled the fans' enthusiasm. Thus began the second season of the "red-and-black disappointments" series. On October 11, the Maracanã welcomed a paying crowd of 77.387—a championship record. Once again seen as one of the competition's top teams, Flamengo hosted Atlético-MG, then threatened with relegation. The expectation was a victory. Unfortunately for the Rio de Janeiro fans, the team had the will of a predator.\
With an impeccable performance and aided by yet another episode of red-and-black 'fuss', the Alvinegro from Minas Gerais won 3-0. Maracanã was silent for the second time in 2008. The luck of the Cariocas is that the Brazilian presented a true show of irregularity. \ Cruzeiro, Palmeiras, and Grêmio's inconsistent form allowed the Gávea team to reconnect. Once again, however, Maracanã, a major reinforcement in 2007, became the villain. On November 1st, Portuguesa, now relegated to Série B, fell behind but left the stadium with a 2-2 draw. Disappointment reigned in the stands.\ A few rounds passed, and the title hopes faded. But the Libertadores Cup seemed very close. In the penultimate round, Cruzeiro lost 1-0 to Internacional's reserves at Beira-Rio and remained on 64 points. Palmeiras only drew 0-0 with Vitória at Barradão and reached 65. With 63, Flamengo needed to beat Goiás at home to return to the top four and reach the final round of the Brasileirão relying solely on its own strength.\ The start to the game was breathtaking. With quick passing, Obina (twice) and Juan made it 3-0 in just 35 minutes. That's when objectivity and commitment gave way to indifference. By the 43rd minute of the first half, Goiás had already reduced the deficit to 3-2. Near the halfway point of the second half, the score was tied at 3-3, a feat only prevented from becoming a historic comeback thanks to goalkeeper Bruno's efforts. \ "Unfortunately, we let a victory that was in our hands slip away. Now we just have to do our part in the final round and hope that our opponents stumble," said coach Caio Júnior.\
The following week began hotly, with graffiti covering the walls of Gávea. Threats to president Márcio Braga and the players were quickly covered up with white paint. The remaining days, however, were calm and free of pressure. The delegation traveled to Curitiba with the mission of beating Atlético-PR, threatened with relegation, and hoping for a stumble from Palmeiras or Cruzeiro. \ Raposa didn't take any chances, thrashing Portuguesa 4-1 at Mineirão Stadium. However, the Alviverde team was surprised by Botafogo at Palestra Itália and ended up losing 1-0. What few expected happened. But the Flamengo of 2008, as it had already proven, let another good opportunity slip through its fingers like water.\ Clearly dejected, the team was thrashed 5-3 by Atlético, which remained in the top flight. With fullbacks focused solely on attacking and a disorganized midfield, the team couldn't withstand the strength of the Paraná Hurricane and finished the Brazilian Championship in fifth place. A performance quite different from what was promised before the match. The 'prize' was a spot in the 2009 South American Championship and a lesson for the future. \
Flamengo officially announces the departure of coach Caio Júnior
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
As expected, Flamengo's board confirmed Caio Júnior's departure on Monday night, following a meeting between Flamengo's top management and the coach's agent, João Francisco. A new name will now be announced soon. Carlos Alberto Parreira, who recently worked with the South African national team, is one of the candidates.
Caio Júnior himself, who leaves Flamengo the day after the team failed to qualify for the Copa Libertadores da América, had already hinted that he would not continue in charge of the team.\ Although Caio Júnior's contract with Flamengo expires in 2009, the two parties reached an agreement that will not result in a release clause. Now, the coach's destination could be Vissel Kobe in Japan.\ "The club's thanks to the coach for his high professional spirit and the admirable human figure he represents," said Flamengo's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, in an official statement.\ From the uplifting beginning to the melancholic end\ With the departure of Joel Santana, who signed with the South African national team, Caio Júnior officially took over the Flamengo team on May 8th, shortly after their unexpected elimination from the Copa Libertadores – a 3-0 loss to América-MEX at the Maracanã Stadium. The coach's start was encouraging, and Flamengo led the Brazilian Championship for eleven rounds. \ At the height of his powers, Caio received a multi-million dollar offer from Qatari football. Since things were going well, the club's board reached out to various departments and secured funding to retain the coach, who tripled his salary and extended his contract until the end of 2009.\ However, with the sale of key players, the team went seven games without a win (drawing two and losing five) and dropped several positions, destabilizing the team's performance. Gradually, the team recovered and returned to the top spots. A title shot became possible again, but Flamengo's inconsistent form ultimately undermined their dreams.\ Angry fans placed the blame primarily on the coach, who admitted to being uncomfortable with the excessive pressure. During the final rounds of the Brazilian Championship, Caio had already been hinting at his departure from the club. At the end of the final round, he vented his frustrations and criticized Flamengo's management and structure, clearly demonstrating that his time at Gávea was over. \
Full-back Juan absolves Caio Júnior of blame for Flamengo's failure
Thales Callippus\ In Sao Paulo\
One day after Flamengo failed to secure a spot in the Copa Libertadores, left-back Juan absolved coach Caio Júnior of any blame. Despite criticism of the coach's performance, particularly from fans, the player blamed the players themselves for the situation.\ "Everyone has their share of blame, but he [Caio Júnior] is one of the least to blame. We players are the ones most responsible for not getting this spot," Juan admitted.\ After the 5-3 loss to Atlético-PR last Sunday, the club's coach once again criticized the club's structure and the delay in signing reinforcements. The club's vice president of football, Kléber Leite, preferred to downplay the coach's remarks, stating that they were merely Caio Júnior's opinion.\ The same director, however, reiterated that the decision on whether the coach will stay or leave will be finalized this Tuesday. Caio Júnior is expected to not remain at Flamengo next season, and Flamengo is reportedly already negotiating with a replacement.\ Regardless of whether the coach remains, Juan emphasized his desire to continue playing for Flamengo. The left-back has a contract with the Rio de Janeiro club until the end of 2011.\ "I haven't received any offers and there's nothing about me leaving the club. I want to see out my contract until the end and, besides, I dream of returning to the Brazilian national team," added Juan, who has already represented the national team against Chile and Bolivia, both in qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. \
Frustrated, Flamengo ends the Brazilian season with the best attack
Bruno Rousso\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Flamengo finished the Brazilian Championship in fifth place with 64 points and without a spot in the Copa Libertadores. However, despite the red-and-blacks' disappointment, one positive development can be highlighted: with the goals scored in the 5-3 loss to Atlético-PR on Sunday, Caio Júnior's team became the competition's most positive attack, with 67 (an average of 1,76 per game), one more than champion São Paulo.
Despite the milestone, the team lacks a top scorer. Flamengo's top scorer in the competition was a defensive midfielder or midfielder: Ibson, who scored 11 goals.\ "We had a good campaign, but unfortunately we didn't achieve our main objectives. But we have to remember that we were the best offensive sector," the coach highlighted.\ While the team shone up front, however, it left a lot to be desired at the back. The defense's performance was far from the same level as the Red-and-Black forwards. In 38 games, they conceded 48 goals, an average of 1,26 per game. São Paulo conceded 36 goals, and Grêmio, the runner-up and most efficient defense, conceded 35. Averages of 0,94 and 0,92, respectively.\ With the Brazilian Championship over, Flamengo is starting to think about the future. According to the club's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, a meeting this Monday will begin to outline the plan for 2009. The director emphasized that Caio Júnior's situation will be resolved by Tuesday. \
Flamengo defenders lament Caio Júnior's departure
From UOL Esporte\ In Rio de Janeiro\
Caio Júnior was fired Monday night by Flamengo's board. Defenders Ronaldo Angelim and Fábio Luciano considered the coach's departure a "disappointing thing." However, both emphasized that football is all about results.
And the result was what Caio Júnior did not achieve, as Flamengo, in fifth place in the Brazilian Championship, was left out of the next Copa Libertadores da América.\ "Caio Júnior is a great person and a great coach. I believe he did a good job, despite not getting the results he needed. But I wish him luck at his new club," said Fábio Luciano, with his words echoed by Ronaldo Angelim.\ "I feel a little guilty, as do the other players, because Flamengo didn't win the Brazilian Championship title or a spot in the Copa Libertadores da América. However, football is about results," he said.\ Without Caio Júnior, Flamengo is now considering a new coach. Carlos Alberto Parreira, who recently worked with the South African national team, is the top candidate. Cuca, currently without a club, is also reportedly being eyed by Flamengo. \
GLOBOESPORTE
Craque Brasileirão 2008: Juan is elected the best left-back of the championship
Flamengo's player surpasses the 2007 winner, Santos' Kléber, who finished third. Palmeiras' Leandro took home the silver trophy.
GLOBOESPORTE.COM Rio de Janeiro
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Juan's good performances led him to Brazilian Team, but they did not prevent the Flamengo was outside the classification zone for the Copa Libertadores, finishing the championship in fifth place.
"This year was very special for me, being called up to the Brazilian national team. This award is also very important," the winner summarized.
Much of the Gávea team's strength lay in its wing play. The duo of Juan and Leo Moura gave their opponents a tough time. The diminutive Juan scored four goals during the red-and-black campaign and provided three perfect assists.
Despite the solidarity, Leo Moura admits that Caio Jr. lacked experience.
The right-back highlights the coach's quality, but says he lacked experience at times. Parreira's name is approved.
Cahê Mota Rio de Janeiro
Leo Moura at the Brazilian Craque award
Fired after failing to take the Flamengo After winning the Copa Libertadores for the third consecutive year, Caio Júnior received the support of the squad during the Craque Brasileirão awards ceremony, held this Monday in Rio de Janeiro. Upon hearing the confirmation of the coach's departure, the red-and-black players made no secret of the fact that it was expected news, but made a point of expressing their solidarity with the former coach. Among words of thanks and encouragement, however, one statement stood out. Leonardo Moura emphasized the former manager's quality, but acknowledged that at times he lacked the experience to handle the club's delicate situation in the final stretch of the Brasileirão. \ "And there were times when there was a lack of experience," he said. Caio is new to coaching, but he's a great coach, he understands, and he has a lot to gain in his career," said the full-back, who didn't shy away from answering when asked if Caio Júnior lacked the experience to get Flamengo back on track. \ - A little bit. \ For Leonardo Moura, two matches in particular were crucial for Flamengo to finish the Brasileirão outside the G-4. \ - Against Atlético-MG and Goiás. We felt like we could have won and secured a spot. Given the year we had, we deserved to qualify, but that's football. It happens. \ Carlos Alberto Parreira, who was considered to take over the team, had his name approved by the full-back. \ - He's a great coach. To come to Flamengo, you have to be very capable. A coach with his quality. \ Flamengo is on vacation and is scheduled to return to training on January 7th. The preseason will be held at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis.\
In search of solutions, Flamengo president seeks advice from Zico and Leonardo
Marcio Braga will create the position of technical coordinator and Parreira is the favorite
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Parreira is the favorite to take over as Fla's technical coordinator
Whether in Rio de Janeiro or Uzbekistan, Zico never fails to analyze – for better or for worse – the performance of FlamengoNow, if it's up to President Marcio Braga, the greatest idol in the club's history will have a key role in shaping next year's planning. \ The director intends to speak with Bunyodkor's current coach and former player Leonardo to gather information on the best management approach. The Milan director recently stated that it's close to time to return to Brazil and limited his potential employment options to Flamengo or the national team.\
This Tuesday, a meeting will take place in Gávea between Marcio Braga and Kleber Leite, the club's vice president of football. A new position will be created: football coordinator, and Carlos Alberto Parreira is the favorite to fill it.
In an interview with Rádio Globo, the coach said he would prioritize Flamengo because it was the club he spoke with first. The two parties are scheduled to meet on Thursday.
Kleber Leite, for his part, also guarantees he will remain at the club. His work has been praised by Marcio Braga. Since the end of 2005, as vice president of football, he arrived and helped save the club from almost certain relegation to Série B. The following year, he led the team to the Copa do Brasil title. In the last two years, he has won the Campeonato Carioca and finished in the top five of the Brazilian league. \ "There's clear progress. Only a blind person wouldn't see it. But of course, we need to improve some aspects, and we already know what they are," says Kleber Leite.\
Ronaldo Angelim and Fábio Luciano regret the departure of Caio Júnior
Upset, the red-and-black defenders wish the coach good luck
Cahê Mota Rio de Janeiro
Caio Júnior no longer works at Fla
Shortly after learning of Caio Júnior's departure from Flamengo, defenders Ronaldo Angelim and Fábio Luciano expressed their solidarity with the coach. Attending the "Crack of the 2008 Brasileirão" event in Rio de Janeiro, both said they understood the decision of the club's board, which is now looking for a new manager for 2009, but expressed regret.\ "I'm upset and feel a little guilty because we didn't win the Brazilian title or qualify for the Copa Libertadores. But we know that's how football works. Everything is decided based on the team's results. That's part of it," lamented Angelim. \ The team captain highly praised Caio's conduct this year and noted that he has greatly improved his professional standing. \ "Caio is a great professional and a great person. He did a wonderful job at Flamengo and has a market in Brazil and abroad. I wish him all the luck in the world, because he deserves it."\
Fla announces the departure of Caio Júnior
A meeting on Monday night will decide the coach's departure. The board admits interest in Parreira.
Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Caio Júnior leaves Gávea after Saturday's training session
O Flamengo announced Monday night that Caio Júnior is no longer the club's coach. A meeting took place between the club's vice president of football, Kleber Leite, and the coach's attorney, João Francisco, at the club's company headquarters. At the meeting, the two parties reached an agreement and there will be no termination fee. The contract was supposed to run until the end of 2009, and the club expects to decide on a replacement this week. \ "He's out. We reached a termination agreement. Caio Júnior has an offer from abroad and will take three months off. I thanked Caio over the phone. There was no other way to do it right now. Life goes on. The good times remain, a top-notch professional who will return one day," declares Kleber Leite. \ Caio is in advanced talks with Vissel Kobe, from Japan, and had already decided to leave Flamengo even before the end of the Brasileirão. More than his campaign in the competition, what caused his departure was the deterioration in the relationship between the parties.\
Parreira is interesting \ In the board's analysis, the coach failed to motivate the group in the final stretch and failed to maintain internal relationships and utilize the reinforcements he requested. Caio Júnior, in turn, leaves Flamengo criticizing the lack of structure and the overexposure he had in the position. \
In 38 games at the helm, he had the following record: 18 games, ten draws, and ten losses. After leading for ten rounds, the Rubro-Negro finished the Brasileirão in fifth place, with 64 points and a 56% success rate. \ This Tuesday, Kleber Leite and president Marcio Braga scheduled a meeting to decide on a new coach. The board confirmed its interest in Carlos Alberto Parreira, but did not specify for which position.\
"We'll start discussing this with the president. We're in a hurry because the market is dynamic," declares Kleber Leite.
Marcelinho Paraíba makes a request before the holidays: 'We have to lift our heads'
Striker says the club had a good campaign in the Brasileirão and must learn from its mistakes for next season
Cahê Mota and Eduardo Peixoto Rio de Janeiro
Marcelinho Paraíba scored three goals in Flamengo's farewell to the season
Treated as a fiasco by a large part of the fans, the campaign of Flamengo No. 2008 Brazilian Championship was not considered tragic by the players. Fifth place, with 64 points, Rubro-Negro was left out of the Libertadores Cup after three years and collected embarrassments inside Maracanã. \ One of the most experienced players in the squad, Marcelinho Paraíba says he was 'a little upset' about not qualifying for the continental competition, but asks the team not to get discouraged for next season and to reflect on their mistakes. \ "We were a little upset about missing out on the chance to reach the Libertadores, but we have to lift our heads. Flamengo had a wonderful campaign and will overcome some of the mistakes that occurred. We'll be able to reflect a lot until 2009 to have good campaigns and help the club win titles." \ For next year, the attacking midfielder already says what the main lesson was. \
"We learned that we can never relax. We sinned by not doing our duty. Botafogo went there and got a good result. We would be in the Libertadores if we had done our part." \ Regarding the fact that he was helped by Botafogo and didn't do his part, Paraíba said that the news of Palmeiras' stumble left the team anxious. \ - The more time passed, the more despair set in. But that wasn't the only thing that made Flamengo lose the game. \ Flamengo's squad went on vacation this Sunday and is scheduled to return to training on January 7th. The preseason will be held at Granja Comary, in Teresópolis.\
THROW
Caio Júnior is no longer Flamengo's coach
The red-black board announces the departure of the commander
Termination will be finalized this Tuesday
LANCEPRESS!
It's official. Caio Júnior will no longer manage Flamengo next season. On Monday afternoon, Vice President of Football Kléber Leite, Executive Director of Football Eduardo Manhães, and Director of Football Plínio Serpa Pinto met to outline the club's football goals, and the coach's departure was finalized. According to Serpa, the departure will be amicable.
"We agreed here. This Tuesday we will terminate the contract. Life goes on. There will be no fines for anyone," said director Plinio Serpa Pinto.
Flamengo fullbacks receive awards at party
Leonardo Moura and Juan are elected the best in the Brasileirão
LANCEPRESS!
If Flamengo didn't have a very positive end to the Brazilian Championship, its full-backs, at least, have reason to celebrate. At the Brasileirão Player of the Year awards, Leonardo Moura and Juan were named the best right and left backs, respectively.
In the right-back spot, Vitor of Goiás finished second, and Élder Granja of Flamengo finished third. On the left, second place went to Leandro of Palmeiras, and third place went to Kléber of Santos.
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Marcio Braga will change Flamengo's football
The President will speak with Zico, Leonardo and Parreira to restructure the department.
Rodrigo Benchimol RIO DE JANEIRO \ Contact us \
While Flamengo's football department studies the best way to terminate Caio Júnior's contract, president Marcio Braga is working in parallel to change the structure of the football team itself. To achieve this, he will count on the help of Zico, Leonardo of Milan, and Carlos Alberto Parreira. A meeting is scheduled with each of them. And this Tuesday, there will be a meeting with vice-president Kléber Leite, manager Isaías Tinoco, and executive director Eduardo Manhães to outline the changes.
The main one is the creation of the position of football coordinator. Parreira is expected to fill this position. If the answer is negative at the meeting with him next Thursday, the president hopes to at least receive ideas and suggestions for the new football administrative model.
If it actually comes to fruition, as the director intends, there's a possibility that Kléber Leite will step down as vice president of football. This, in fact, has been a request from several political factions within Flamengo, dissatisfied with the football department's high spending and recent results.
"The new coach will be chosen by the newly formed committee. The idea is to have a professional coordinator for the football department, as is the case in the European model. The administration will no longer be amateurish. There will still be a vice-president of football for statutory reasons. If Kléber, who is doing a good job, doesn't want to continue, I can easily take over and take on additional duties. The president is the one in charge here, the one who has the final say," stated Marcio Braga.
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Angelim and Léo Moura analyze Flamengo's year
Defender criticizes blunder at the end of the season. Fullback was satisfied
LANCEPRESS!
Flamengo's year-end was melancholic. After leading the Brazilian Championship, the Red-Black team finished the competition in fifth place, even missing out on the Copa Libertadores. Defender Ronaldo Angelim believes the failure will serve as a lesson for next season.
"At the end of the year, we made a mistake. We even lost our place in the Copa Libertadores. But this will serve as a lesson. I'm sure we'll come back stronger next year," he told SporTV.
Right-back Leonardo Moura believes that Flamengo's players honored the club's colors.
"I think we did our part, even though we didn't win the title or qualify for the Copa Libertadores. We have to keep our heads up. Now it's time to rest," he analyzed.
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Fla: change to stay in the Superleague
Tuka Rocha reveals to LANCENET! the problems of the first season and praises the club's support
Flamengo's car didn't do well in the 2008 season
LANCEPRESS!
When Tuka Rocha finished second in the first double-header of the Formula Superleague, Flamengo fans were thrilled. However, the euphoria faded in the remaining races, and the driver, irritated by the Astromega team's continued problems, will travel to Rio de Janeiro this week to ask Flamengo to change teams for next season. According to what he revealed to LANCENET!, the club may even leave the category.
"I did very well in the race in England and even considered competing for the championship, but then it was all a problem. In the second round (Germany), a communication error caused me to start last, in Zolder (Belgium) it rained and I had a lot of problems, in Vallelunga (Italy) I was going to take pole, but the fuel pump broke, and in the last round (Portugal) the differential broke. Flamengo will only continue if they change teams," he said.
Tuka made it clear that his complaints are about Astromega and not the Rio de Janeiro club, which, according to him, has always supported him:
"The positive aspect of the championship was that someone from Flamengo was present at every race. They saw what happened. Flamengo has to make the choice because the Superleague will ask, but the club gave me carte blanche to choose and negotiate."
And, if it's up to Tuka, one team is ahead of the curve in his favor: Piquet Sports, which was the springboard for his good friend Nelsinho Piquet's Formula 3 and GP2 career. For him, having Flamengo compete with a Brazilian team would be crucial for the results to come.
"This year, we shared the team with Anderlecht. The team was Belgian, and Anderlecht is from Belgium, so all the parts went to the other car first, since they didn't want to spend money. But they have no idea what Flamengo is like. Flamengo is the biggest club there, with the biggest fan base," the driver concluded.
Flamengo finished the first season of the Superleague in 16th place out of 18 teams. Corinthians, another Brazilian team, finished ninth, while the title went to Beijing Guoan of China.