De Arrascaeta is presented at Ninho do Urubu: I am where I wanted to be

Flamengo's new signing gave a press conference at Ninho and will wear the number 14 shirt.

By John Peter Granette - in 14/01/2019 às 17:08

Photo: Marcelo Cortes / Flamengo

Flamengo presented its third reinforcement for the season on Monday afternoon (14). After Rodrigo Caio and Gabriel Barbosa, it was Giorgian De Arrascaeta's turn to officially arrive at Mais Querido. The new number 14 gave a press conference at Ninho do Urubu and spoke about his arrival in Rio de Janeiro and the new challenges.

"Now I'm where I wanted to be. I'm happy to wear this shirt and my focus is here at Flamengo. I want to win everything and give back all the affection I'm receiving."

The Uruguayan commented on the club's greatness and stated that the main objective is to finish the 2019 season with many important achievements.

"I came here with a lot of enthusiasm and a strong desire to be here at Flamengo. It's a very big club and respected around the world. This year we'll face great challenges, and I want to leave as champions and with great achievements."

Like Gabriel Barbosa, Arrascaeta remained in Rio de Janeiro and has not yet trained with the rest of the squad, which remains in the United States for preseason training. The new number 14 made a point of praising the quality of his new teammates.

"I'm arriving now to help the team. I'll try to be decisive in every game. We have a great squad here, and that will be important for us to achieve great things this year."

Arrascaeta took advantage of his first conversation with journalists at Ninho do Urubu and sent a message to the red-and-black fans.

"We'll fight all year long so that Flamengo can lift several trophies. We'll need a lot of our fans, and on the field we'll do our part."

Check out other excerpts from the press conference

Pressure at the new club

I think players handle it normally. When you're fighting for a title, or even to avoid relegation. I have no problem, and I'll give my best in every game. We're at a very big club, and we'll fight for everything.

Competition in the group

Players have to always fight to play, they have to give their all. Everyone here is a quality player, and that strengthens the squad. It'll be a good headache for the coach and an extra motivation for the players.

Possible cast turnover

The decision will always be Abel's. If I'm physically fit, I'll want to be in every game. We played a lot in Brazil, so at some point we'll have to rest. This year we'll have decisive games.

Impressions of Rio de Janeiro and the fans

I could feel the warmth too. There's no doubt that here in Brazil, they're very passionate about soccer, and we were the ones who loved it when we were kids. I keep thinking that a hug and a photo means a lot to them, and we don't lose anything by doing so. I want to bring lots of joy to our fans.

Game conditions

We have to take it step by step to start this year strong physically and mentally. I have to talk to the coach and the physical trainer. I'm still getting to know the group, and when I'm ready to play will depend on the coach.

Chances in the Uruguayan national team

This will depend more on my performances with the team. Uruguay has great players, so I'll prepare well for this year. We also have the Copa América, which is an extra motivation.