Rodrigo Caio was finally officially introduced to Flamengo. The first signing for the 2019 season, the defender spoke to reporters in the press room at the George Helal Training Center, shortly after undergoing several physical tests on the field and medical tests at the CEP FLA. The 23-year-old underwent heart, blood, and endurance tests. His teammates, always by his side, spent the morning supporting and encouraging him. Before taking the field, he exchanged words with Juan, the most experienced member of the group and, as he himself described it, "an idol." 

Rodrigo Caio will wear the third jersey, which was not being used by the team. He travels to Orlando and will participate in the Florida Cup, the first competition of the year. His debut will be on the 10th, against Ajax. 

Check out some excerpts from the player's press conference. 

Why Flamengo?

Who doesn't dream of one day playing for Flamengo? Players have this dream; I believe the vast majority do. It's because of Flamengo, its structure, and what the team represents in Brazilian and world football. It's a great opportunity for me. I'm very motivated and grateful for this chance. I had a great time at São Paulo, where I did my best and made it to the national team. But today I wear the Flamengo mantle, and I'm grateful to São Paulo for what it represented in my career. Today I end this cycle and come here to be a champion. This is my life. 

First day

I had a brief chat with Abel and I'm happy to work with him. He's a very honest guy and a great coach. Juan is an idol of mine; I've always looked up to him for his playing style and his approach to football. I'm sure I'll learn a lot from him. Let's all work together to achieve success and put Flamengo where it deserves to be.

Contribution

We don't need to comment on the quality of Flamengo's players. Of course, the pressure here is very high. We entered the season with this pressure, with this quality. Abel told us about the pressure he will face. We take it naturally, as we need to focus on working hard and delivering on the field. There's no magic formula. It's about hard work on the field, dedication, and, this way, we'll reach our goals, which is to compete for titles. 

Organization

Everything here is in your favor for you to make a decision and come to the club. The first time I contacted Flamengo, I said I would be the priority. The greatness, the team, the fans—everything motivates any player. I can only repay that on the field with great dedication and honoring the jersey. 

Flamengo's New Training Center 

It's amazing. The last time I was here was during the Olympics, in 2016. Now that I've seen it, I'm amazed. We're going to make the most of this structure. All the support Flamengo will provide on the field will help the players, and I'm sure it will be a brilliant year. 

Physical conditions

Unfortunately, last year was difficult for me, one of the worst of my career. I was fighting for a World Cup spot, but I suffered an unexpected injury and was far from that dream. I'm recovered, and I feel 100% ready to play and do my job. I'm certain 2019 will be a very special season, and I will honor this jersey.

Message to the fans

I think the pressure from the fans is very important and valid. It helps you grow as a player. I've always been under a lot of pressure, and I've always seen it as something constructive. The fans are very fanatical. Arriving at the stadium and seeing the fans giving their all motivates the players immensely. I hope the fans are on our side at these moments, because we will fight for them.

Fair Play

The history of fair play has been poorly explained and misunderstood. I'm not a nice guy. I'm fair. I strive to be fair in my actions, and I always have been. But on the field, I play hard and loyally. Here, I have no doubt the pressure will be high; I've seen it in their eyes. Everyone demands better from the other. It's a healthy pressure. I'm here to help and be another player. You can count on me for whatever comes your way.