Flamengo captain and considered one of the players responsible for the team's surge in performance in last year's Brazilian Championship, defender Fábio Luciano praised the signing policy adopted by the board for the 2008 season. According to him, the increased value of players already on the roster, combined with the reinforcements that arrived, made Flamengo even stronger. "Those who were here last year managed to rescue the team from a difficult situation and ensure it finished the Brazilian Championship with dignity. It's only fair that the core team be maintained. Some necessary reinforcements have arrived, and Flamengo is very strong for the season," analyzed the Flamengo captain. Fábio Luciano also adopted a tone of respect among the players, leaving coach Joel Santana to choose who will start the season as a starter. "Joel will be the one to decide. We have to respect Angelim, Rodrigo Arroz, Thiago Sales, and also Nilton, who is young but has already shown his qualities. Flamengo will be strong, regardless of who starts."