The final stretch of the 2007 Brazilian Championship. Flamengo is fighting relegation. Joel Santana arrives at the club to try to pull off a miracle: save the Rubro-Negro from the almost inevitable relegation to Série B. A new formation is assembled, with a powerful midfield and a single striker up front. The tactic works, the team escapes relegation and even secures a spot in the Copa Libertadores.

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It's a run that's hard to forget, for fans and also for those who were part of that moment. Such is the case with midfielder Rômulo. Captain of the three-time U-19 champion team that year, the player was promoted by Joel, earned a starting spot, and was one of the standout players of that campaign. But a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee nearly ended the young talent's dreams. Almost.

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Six months later, he recovered and was loaned to Paraná and Figueirense. Another injury got in the way, and in 2009, he returned to Flamengo. Under Andrade's command, he played one match in the sixth-title campaign, and now, in 2010, he has another chance to showcase his talent.

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After performing well in the friendly against Brasília, he's expected to start against Friburguense on Sunday (April 04.04), playing in a different position: center back. Rômulo spoke to Flamengo's official website about his expectations for the match and his love for the club. Check out the full interview:

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Opportunity to play again
I'm very excited about this opportunity. It's amazing to be back playing for Flamengo. I think I'm well prepared, physically and technically, and this is a fresh start.

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Change of position
I used to play as a third center-back. Even when I was a defensive midfielder, I often ended up protecting the defense and acting as a false center-back. It's a little different now, but it's good for a player in modern football to be versatile. It gives you more opportunities to play and also more visibility.

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Duo with Angelim
Playing alongside Angelim is great. I've played with him before; he's a super calm, experienced guy who's always helpful.

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Flamengo
Playing for Flamengo is different. It's a pleasure to wear this jersey and play with this crowd cheering you on. I feel at home. I've been here for ten years, and it's a real pleasure to defend these colors.

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2007
Of course, I miss that year. It was special. But that's life. Sometimes you're doing really well, and then you end up forgotten. You need to have your feet on the ground and a clear head to know how to deal with it.

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future
I've been training hard and working harder every day to earn my place and, who knows, maybe have an even better season than in 2007.