News on the court at the Hélio Maurício Gymnasium. Flamengo's futsal team returns to training this Monday at Gávea. However, the Flamengo squad for the season has not yet been determined. Only a few players have been confirmed and will report to coach Cid Escarlate tonight. The first addition is center Cazuza, formerly of Vassouras, one of the standout players in last season's State Championship.

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Futsal supervisor Luiz Antônio reveals that the board is doing everything possible to have a group formed as quickly as possible. Last week, he spoke personally with each member of the 2009 squad, made proposals to renew some players, released others, and consulted with coach Cid Escarlate about the formation of the team that will compete in the 2010 championships.

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"We're waiting to hear from some players, but we're not going to wait. We've spoken to some players, who have agreed to be part of the group, even with the cost reduction, and we're doing everything we can to keep the sport alive and at a good level," he explained.

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So far, goalkeeper Rafael Pazos, defensive midfielders Wallace and Pablo, winger Pedro, and pivot Gabriel have been confirmed. Gabriel has been a key player in the club's campaigns since 2007, when he was named the Rio de Janeiro Futsal Federation (FFSERJ)'s best player in Rio de Janeiro futsal alongside Diego Panazio. Happy with the renewal, the number 10 stated that he will stay at Gávea because of his affection for the club.

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"I stay because of the trust I have in the professionals here. I have a great relationship with everyone, and that has had a huge impact. Also, of course, because it's Flamengo. Because of the fans, because of the club, which is a place where I feel very comfortable," he said.

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Coach Cid Escarlate hopes to have at least 70 to 80 percent of his squad selected by the end of this week. The Flamengo manager has already been talking to players who have played for Flamengo in recent years, as well as potential reinforcements.

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"We are still talking to the majority of the group. We are waiting for a response from Vitor (Magrão), Michel, Panazio, Gustavo, who played for América last season, but I believe that in the next few days we will have some news," he noted.

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This Monday at 20 p.m., the coaching staff will begin medical and physical evaluations of the players. These will be the main focus of activities throughout the week, so that after Carnival, the team can begin training with the ball.