This Friday morning was special for Diego. After training to begin preparations for the Brazilian Championship match against Sport Clube Recife, the midfielder learned that coach Tite had included him in the squad for the national team's matches against Bolivia and Chile on October 5th and 10th, respectively.

The feeling is the best possible, according to the star. When discussing the new opportunity to represent his country in an international competition, Diego recalls his first chance to wear the yellow jersey, at just 17 years old.

"Without a doubt, I'm very happy. The feeling is similar to my first call-up to the Brazilian national team, when I was 17. I've never hidden from anyone my biggest goal, which is to be on the Brazilian national team and play in a World Cup. Being on this list momentarily means a goal achieved," he said, also emphasizing the work done at the club. "This goal is achieved through a lot of collective work, which ends up boosting me," he added.

Ever since Tite took over as Brazil's national team coach and called him up for the first time, much praise has been heaped on the number 35's quality on and off the field. Combined with his talent with the ball, his demeanor, and his team spirit, the midfielder felt a new opportunity to represent his country was at hand.

"Yes, I was looking forward to it, especially because of the call-ups I've already received under Tite. Every bit of praise at press conferences is a huge motivation. I'm happy for many reasons, but mainly because I have another opportunity to wear this shirt," he added.

The call-up also serves as even greater motivation to defend the Sacred Mantle in the challenges that lie ahead this season. This Sunday (17), the Mais Querido will face the Sport Clube Recife team at Ilha do Urubu. During the conversation with journalists, Diego commented on what to expect from Flamengo in the match.

"What we can expect from Flamengo in this game against Sport is a team that will go after the result at all costs. These are three crucial points. If we win this game, we'll focus on the next one so we can achieve our goals, step by step," he stated.

In addition to the important match for the Brazilian Championship, the red-black team will decide the place for the next phase of the Conmebol South American against Chapecoense and will fight for the title of the Copa do Brasil against Cruzeiro later this September.

"Our biggest challenge is to stay motivated and focused, as we'll face different championships, situations, and teams with different playing styles. We need to quickly and decisively change gears to stay motivated and perform at a high level, not only physically but also psychologically. At Flamengo, we have to take it game by game, because we see that with every slip-up, even a draw, comes pressure and questions. We have to be prepared for this and know that we're confident and on the right track," he concluded.

Watch Diego's full press conference: