Looking to increase their lead at the top of the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo returns to the field against Avaí, this Saturday (07), at 17 pm, at Mané Garrincha, in Brasília. Without Arrascaeta, Bruno Henrique and Berrío, called up for the Uruguayan, Brazilian and Colombian national teams respectively, the Mais Querido relies on the strength of the squad to overcome their opponent in the national competition. In a press conference this Thursday (05), goalkeeper Diego Alves spoke about the absence of the players and stated that whoever enters will be prepared to help the team in the best way.

"We'll have important absences, players who have been playing consistently, like Bruno and Arrascaeta... This shows that the players are being seen. Being on the national team gives you a lot of confidence. But we have other players who are working hard to get their chance," says the number 1.

Diego Alves assured that the team is down to earth and focused on achieving another good result.  

"Our thinking is in the same direction, whether it's the youngest or the most experienced members of the squad. Euphoria isn't around. The focus is on the work, step by step. We have a run in the Brazilian Championship to do now. We're growing. The game against Avaí is as important as the game against Palmeiras. There's no fuss. The Brazilian Championship is long, and all our efforts are focused on these games," he emphasizes.