While the athletes were training on the pitch at Field 5 of Ninho do Urubu, the Flamengo football director Rodrigo Caetano appeared at the Victorino Chermont Press Room to give a press conference. The director commented on the decisive refereeing error committed in the classic against Vasco, held last Sunday (26), highlighting the damage to the preparation work for a confrontation of such importance.

"When events like yesterday's occur, it can indeed impact the lives of many professionals. Today we have a highly committed group. Flamengo has been showing, especially in the last six months, in which we have only had two defeats, that this group truly sees a bright future ahead. But we will never allow our work to be harmed, whether by human error, a lack of qualification on the part of the referee, or even by something that many have deliberately suggested," said the director. "On behalf of all Flamengo professionals, I register our indignation regarding this," he concluded.

Asked about the plans for the Flamengo youth academy gems, Caetano explained the projects being developed by the club's football department. In the South American Under-17 Championship, which saw the Brazilian National Team crowned champions, the Flamengo youth players Vinicius Jr., Lincoln, and Wesley performed exceptionally well.

"We have a project here that will reach from the under-13s to the under-20s, for those athletes who deserve to be in a select group, which will prioritize multi- and interdisciplinary work. Our intention is not to skip any steps, taking great care in the transition phase between all categories," revealed the club's football director.

Next, Caetano spoke specifically about the case of Vinicius Júnior, who was chosen as the best player in the continental competition while wearing the Brazilian national team jersey. "It's clear that Vinicius Jr. has a very special project, and it couldn't be any other way. We will be very cautious, but we know that different athletes also have different stages," he added.