Early in the afternoon of this Thursday (24), Diego gave a press conference in the press room at CT George Helal after training. The midfielder commented on the search for the first victory at Maracanã after returning to the stadium, in addition to praising the importance of midfielder Márcio Araújo for the squad, pointing out how much the athlete is valued by the group. Finally, the number 35 spoke about the reunion with the club that projected him into football, Santos.

The fact that we haven't won at the stadium is a factor that we can't say doesn't bother us, but it also doesn't make us despair. No one will convince me that the season wasn't positive, but given the current circumstances, we can improve. That second place finish depends solely on us. We want to reward the fans and all the professionals involved with this victory and a positive end to the season. We're approaching this match against Santos as a way to repay all those who believed in our potential.

It's always good to have the opportunity to talk about this type of player and human being, to make public what only we experience on a daily basis. Statistically, his importance to the team is very clear. He's the most disarming player on our roster. Even when it comes to passing, which is a highly contested aspect of his game, the statistics show that it's unfair. This type of player should be valued, as he's crucial to our tactical system. He's an athlete I admire and enjoy being around. He's one of the players who contributes most to the group's well-being, always willing to help raise the level of training in a positive, respectful, and professional manner. In my early days at Flamengo, the impression I've taken from Márcio Araújo is that of a role model.

I believe we had a positive season. Having only experienced half of this journey, I'm proud of what we accomplished. We have to consider the challenges we faced throughout the season: travel, different venues, and exhaustion. We overcame all of this. We have to acknowledge all these positives, but that won't make us relax in the last two games we have left. We have the opportunity to finish this year on a better note, and that's what we'll strive for. The team's motivation is high.

When I arrived here, I said that one of the things that attracted me was being able to wear this jersey and play in front of a packed Maracanã stadium. Of course, it affects us, but in a positive way. I don't think it hindered us, because, as I said before, we've had moments of excellent football in the matches played at this stadium. In the second half against Corinthians, and in the first stages against Botafogo and Coritiba, when we had one of our best starts in the championship. The Maracanã stadium is not and never will be a negative point for Flamengo. As a player, it's always a pleasure and an extra motivation to have this opportunity to honor this jersey at this stadium.

Arão is a unique, intelligent player with excellent movement. He's been a key player in Flamengo's positive run this season. Vizeu is a top-notch kid who always creates danger for the opposition. He moves and finishes very well. I'm sure he'll bring Flamengo much joy, just like other young players like Thiago Santos and Paquetá, for example. I always tell them that the path is right. This is the direction.

This will undoubtedly be a very special encounter. I've had the opportunity to face former clubs in my career, the last being Werder Bremen, when I played for Wolfsburg. Once the game starts, the jersey you're wearing is what matters. Your dedication must be total. But of course, Santos is in my heart; I have nothing to hide about that. I will be eternally grateful for everything the club has given me. From the years I lived under the stands at Vila Belmiro, to the affection the cooks showed me—things that will never be forgotten. However, I'm experiencing extremely happy moments in my life here at Flamengo. My dedication is 100% focused on the club I play for.