Maurício Souza praises the importance of the coaching staff's work during the pandemic and praises the athletes
Coach also talks about the experience in the Guanabara Cup and the U-20's goals for the season
By Communication - Flamengo - inA multiple-time champion in 2019 in the U-20s, Maurício Souza had a different start to the year. Due to the professional team's vacation, the coach led an alternate team for much of the Guanabara Cup group stage and received the championship medal from Jorge Jesus. Returning to the base after the fourth round of the competition, he resumed planning for the team that finished third in this year's Copa Libertadores.
With everything at a standstill due to the coronavirus pandemic, Maurício spoke to the Mais Querido Official Website.
Opportunity in the Guanabara Cup
"It was a wonderful experience. Not just for me, but for the entire U-20 team, and for the players, who will never forget it. Being able to represent Flamengo at Maracanã, with the support of the nation, was enriching and unforgettable."
Preparation during the break
"We've asked the players to stay home and follow the physical preparation and physiology program they received. We're doing everything in our power to maintain a basic level of physical activity. It's not easy, but the club has been monitoring the situation daily."
Calendar
"We debuted in the Carioca in March and had a Copa do Brasil game right after, which didn't happen due to the interruption. Our preparation was good, as some athletes competed in the State Championship for the professional team and others played in the Under-20 Libertadores. The group is more mature and now we just have to wait for the return."
Planning when activities return
"When we return, we will reassess the athletes' conditions first. There is no date yet, but we will definitely have to understand how everything will work before we can draw up a plan."
U-20 Goals for the Year
"The challenges don't change much. In the under-20 category, results are important, but we also have the mission of promoting athletes who can join Flamengo's professional team, if the coach needs them. We had an excellent year in 2019 and we hope to repeat that in 2020."