After training and set-piece training this morning at Gávea, midfielder Cristian stated that the red-and-black team is ready to face Náutico on Saturday at Maracanã, despite the absences of Ibson and Fábio Luciano. According to the player, Kleberson and Dininho are capable of starting for the red-and-black team.

"We made changes against Sport, and it didn't hurt our performance. Whoever's here can start, and whoever comes in will certainly help us against Náutico."

Cristian expects a tough match against the Pernambuco team, but says Flamengo has the obligation to win, as the team from Gávea is leading the national championship.

"When it comes to Flamengo, the obligation is to always win. It'll be tough, like all matches in the Brazilian Championship, but by playing responsibly and knowing how to impose ourselves at home, we can get a good result and stay in the lead. Then the games start on Wednesday and Sunday, and the strain is greater, with players suspended, and the strain is immense. We have to perform well now."

Cristian spoke about Fluminense's runner-up finish in the Copa Libertadores.

"We're not relieved by Fluminense's loss. Our joy is with first place in the Brazilian Championship. What happened to them is part of football. We put their sadness aside and focus on our own happiness here. When we lost, a lot of people laughed. But we don't talk about anyone here. The jokes are on the fans. We have to respect the professionals who are there."