Bruno Henrique praises his debut with the Sacred Mantle: “This is just the beginning”
Shirt 27 spoke to journalists at a press conference held at Ninho do Urubu
By John Peter Granette - in
Last Saturday afternoon (26) was more than special for Bruno Henrique. In his first game with the Manto Sagrado, the number 27 scored both goals in the 2-1 victory, in the classic against Botafogo, at Nilton Santos. Before training this Monday (28), the striker gave a press conference at Ninho do Urubu and highlighted the special start at Mais Querido.
"Happy with the first game and already being able to leave a good impression. After a difficult year, it was great to have everyone's support. After the game, I received many congratulatory messages. This is just the beginning. I hope to keep going."
Flamengo's fourth signing for the season was highly praised by Abel Braga and spoke a little about his relationship with the coach.
"Having the coach's trust is very important for a player. It helps them evolve. I've faced him several times, and he always told me he wanted me by his side. That's very important. May we achieve many things this year for Flamengo."
Bruno Henrique also made it clear that he could evolve a lot during 2019.
"Physically, I'm not 100%, I don't think anyone is yet. I played 45 minutes, made a few starts, but I wasn't able to recover and sprint on some occasions. I can improve a lot and whatever Abel decides for that game, I will respect."
Flamengo returns to action this Tuesday at 21 p.m. against Boavista. When asked by reporters, Bruno Henrique expressed his eagerness to play at Maracanã with the nation cheering him on.
"I have the best possible expectations of playing at Maracanã and seeing the fans again. I've played against them before, and they always encourage me. I like to go all out, so this encourages me and gives me a lot of confidence."
Check out other excerpts from the striker's interview
Probable starting role against Boavista
Abel hasn't commented yet (which team he's playing). He just congratulated him. He's the coach, he's the one who knows. We have to work hard, be healthy, and help if we get in.
Pass for Gabriel's disallowed goal
It was clear, everyone saw that I wasn't offside during Gabriel's goal. The referee said I was too fast. Thankfully, we had the score in our favor. Now it's time to keep working and be healthy so I can serve my teammates well.
Differential for a good debut
I think it was willpower. In a stupid incident, I had an injury (to my eye). Then I had another one to my adductor. I had three or four in one year. In 2018, that was missing. I took the field with a strong desire to help and try to repeat what I did in 2017.
Rotation of players in the squad
The (two-team) strategy is good; it shows the strength of the group. Everyone feels important and can demonstrate why they're at Flamengo. Abel can do that. The players don't see a problem; the club wins. Whoever comes in gets the job done.
Friendship with Gabigol
Gabriel feels like we've known each other forever; he's a brother I made through soccer. He has a big heart. His family does too. They've always welcomed me into their home. I have a lot of affection for him.
Posicionamento
Between the left and right flanks, I think I'm comfortable with both. I've already played, so it won't be a problem at all. It'll be up to Abel. Physically, I'm still a bit underdeveloped. That'll come with time, with games.
Expectations before the premiere
No one can predict the future. But I always want to play well, score goals, which is very important. Abel's trust, he's a renowned guy who knows football. He took me to the game, talked to me... I think that's how he decided to take me to the game.