After training on Thursday morning (07), striker Fernandinho spoke to journalists in the press room at CT George Helal, in Vargem Grande. Among the topics discussed, the player commented on the match against Atlético-MG, the club he played for in 2013 and the opponent next Sunday (10).
See the main excerpts:
Next Sunday's confrontation
Atlético is a team whose potential is well known. They play forward, attack their opponents, and aren't afraid to make mistakes. They didn't start the season so well, but they're on a winning streak and have climbed the table. They're already in contention for the top spot. We need to observe their strengths and the factors we can use to our advantage so we can win this match.
Reunion with the old club
It's a special club for me. I was very well received when I arrived, I have many friends, and I had some great times. However, now I wear the Mengão jersey, and I know we need this victory. It's always good to be liked wherever we go, but regardless, the goal is to play well and win.
Defensive functions of wingers
I've played this role since the beginning of my career, but even so, I've evolved significantly in this regard. I used to play with a bit more freedom, and this maturity has changed my approach on the field. Most of the time, the team plays with two lines of four players, with the forwards dropping back to help. When the players in this position don't fulfill these roles, the team becomes very vulnerable. It's exhausting, but players who play in this area of the field need to be accustomed to working this way.
The importance of Zé Ricardo to the group
He's extremely intelligent, resourceful, and quite studious. Many of his characteristics are similar to those of Roger, the coach I recently worked with at Grêmio. I believe they're both part of the new generation that will take over the national coaching scene. I've learned a lot from him, and I'm sure my teammates have too.