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Diego praises Zé Ricardo's retention for 2017: "Brilliant work"

Midfielder spoke to journalists after tactical training at CT

By - in
After finishing work on Wednesday morning, Diego gave a press conference in the press room at CT George Helal in Vargem Grande. The midfielder commented on the final stretch of the Brazilian Championship, with tough matches ahead. The number 35 also spoke about the best he can do for the Mais Querido and about the renewal of manager Zé Ricardo for next season.

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See the main excerpts:

Latest clashes in the Brasileirão
It's a tough final stretch. As the season draws to a close, the players who have been playing since the beginning have to overcome fatigue. We'll face teams with different objectives, some at the top and others struggling at the bottom. With this in mind, I expect a balanced finish to the championship, and I believe our concentration is very strong. I believe we'll be able to finish the competition on a positive note.

Juan and Donatti
During such a long competition, it's natural that some players don't play as much as others. We have a very balanced squad. I'm just getting to know Donatti, but I've already noticed that he's a very dedicated player, a serious defender, just the way he should be. Juan, on the other hand, is the kind of player who gives you the feeling he'll be around forever. I played with him a long time ago, but the confidence he still exudes is impressive. It's self-evident. He's a player who contributes to the team both on and off the field. Being able to count on him is a privilege.

End of the championship
Finishing on a positive note means maintaining the team's ambition. Flamengo has only played three times in Rio de Janeiro, is the team that has traveled the most in the championship, and has had a sensational campaign. It's one of the teams that has suffered the least injuries. We reached the end of the championship still with a chance of winning the title, and I see no alternative but to dream. We depend only on ourselves to finish second, still with a chance of winning the title. Finishing with this mindset is crucial.

Best form for Flamengo
Everyone made me feel very comfortable, from the fans to the coaching staff and players. It's always a pleasure to come to each training session and play for this club. I'm reaping the rewards my teammates have prepared, as well as the hard work Flamengo has been putting in for a long time. With the excitement of arriving here, I've overcome many challenges. I spent twelve years playing outside of Brazil, and I'm still adapting to the championship. I'm at an excellent level, but I can probably improve even more. I'm satisfied, but there's still room for improvement.

Zé Ricardo's maintenance for 2017
We all expected this, but having this official information is wonderful. Zé has done a brilliant job, not only as a coach, but as a person as well. His relationship with the players is excellent, and being able to count on him for next season is a huge plus.

Good performances since arrival
I prepared exhaustively to meet all expectations for my arrival. I believe that, in a way, I've been able to do my part for the team. I've been able to help us improve and maintain the same level. I talk with Zé to adjust certain aspects of my game so that I can give 100% of my potential for the team. The most important thing is that we win these final games.

Newly promoted youth athletes
Their work has attracted a lot of attention. Each of them will decide when to play, demonstrating attitude and dedication. They possess quality, and opportunities to showcase their skills present themselves every day during training. They are all capable of playing and performing on the field.