At the end of Tuesday's tactical training session at Ninho do Urubu, midfielder Diego appeared in the Victorino Chermont Press Room to give a press conference. The CONMEBOL Sudamericana semifinal match against Junior Barranquilla was the main focus of his conversation with reporters. 

"We're extremely proud to be in the semifinals of an important competition once again. Great teams have fallen by the wayside. We're eager to win this title and have been preparing for it. It's incredibly important to us. Now we need to focus, dedicate ourselves, and give everything we have on the field," the midfielder said.

Colombians Reinaldo Rueda, Bernardo Redín, and Carlos Eduardo Velasco worked together at Atlético Nacional before joining the Mais Querido. In local competitions, the trio has also faced off against the red-and-black team this Thursday. Knowing the opponent well could prove to be a key factor in the matchup, according to Diego.  

"He and the entire coaching staff know them very well. On a daily basis, he's been giving us the details and everything he wants us to do. It's important that we pay attention to these instructions," the midfielder commented. "We're satisfied with his work, and I believe he is too. There's this adaptation period, which will be shortened as much as possible, because we need results," he emphasized, ruling out any kind of communication hurdle between the coaching staff and the players. "I don't see any difficulties with language, understanding, style of play, or philosophy," he added.

Beginning the transition to training on the pitch, Éverton is looking to participate in the first match against the Colombian team. Diego emphasized the importance of the number 22 to the squad. "I have no doubt that my teammates and I really want to have him. He's an extremely important player for us and he's shown that throughout the season," he stated. "He's in the process of returning, which we have to respect, but I hope he returns, because we're stronger with him," he added.

During the conversation, Diego spoke about the honor of wearing the number 10 jersey in international competition. His call-up to the Brazilian national team was also a topic of discussion, as well as the support given to young players during this transition from the youth to professional ranks and the strength of the Nation at Maracanã for this Thursday's match, with kick-off at 21:45 p.m.