Flamengo's main signing for the 2009 season, striker Adriano, has not had good performances in the team's last few games in the Brazilian Championship. Aware of the responsibility he carries, the Emperor guaranteed that he is ready and motivated to turn things around.

“This phase will pass. I’ve had many bad moments and I’m not going to let this one shake me. I’m not 100% yet, but I’ve been working to recover. Here in Teresópolis I’ll have the chance to get closer to 100%. I knew it wouldn’t be easy. I was honest when I said I wasn’t 100% to debut. But I’ve never run away from my responsibilities and I won’t run away from them. I know my condition isn’t the best, but I’ll get through this and improve my performance. I trained full-time for two weeks, reacted well, and had the opportunity to play as quickly as possible. I think that’s very positive in my return.”

Adriano assured that he has no problem whatsoever with coach Cuca and said that the group is focused on achieving victories in the upcoming games.

"I avoid talking because I don't really like to. But I'm here to represent the group and speak for myself as well because there was a meeting and we're focused on our goals. The group and Cuca have no problems on or off the field. I'm here with Cuca to prove that there are no problems between us."

Adriano said he was free to remain in Curitiba after Sunday's game.

"I think I'm being a little disrespected. Two players stayed in Curitiba and I didn't see or read anyone saying anything. I just thought that was unfair. If I was wrong in the eyes of the players, of the fans, I apologize. I'm very calm about this. I'll always receive criticism. What I always ask for is the right criticism, I've never fought over it. But it's also necessary to be fair, because there's a family man here. What's right doesn't bother me. I'm calm about this because I know my life is like this, I'm a target. I can't escape it. But I also get hurt when people make mistakes with me. My responsibility at Flamengo is on and off the field. But I have the freedom to do what I want when it's possible."