With an eye on the debut of the Brazilian Championship, Flamengo makes the final adjustments before facing Vitória, next Saturday (14), in Salvador. This Wednesday (11), striker Henrique Dourado spoke to journalists in a press conference and spoke about the importance of debuting well in the national competition. 

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"I believe that this two weeks of training we had helped Professor Barbieri, especially since he's been with us since the beginning. He already understood and had insight into some things and added others. We're striving to do our best, and this week we'll improve on what he's been teaching us so we can make a strong debut in the Brazilian Championship." 

The number 19 also commented on his relationship with Paolo Guerrero, his attacking partner, and made a point of making it clear that there is no vanity within the red-black group. 

"I knew him, but not like I know him now. We've faced him in a few games, and he's a very straightforward guy. I try to get along really well, not just with him, who's also a striker, but with everyone. I try to be myself, and wherever I've been, the closest people to me have been those in my position. There's no such thing as vanity; we're here to help the club, and when he's ready, he'll be a big help to us." 

Next week, the Mais Querido will have another important match, this time against Colombia's Independiente Santa Fé in the CONMEBOL Libertadores. Despite this, the striker assured that his focus right now is on the duel at Barradão. 

"These two weeks have already served as preparation. We're focusing first on the Vitória game, which is important for us; it's our Brazilian Championship debut. We'll study our Libertadores opponent for the week of the Libertadores."

The ball will roll on the stage for the opening match of the Brazilian Championship starting at 19 pm.

"He's incredibly intelligent and is sharing everything with us so we can understand what he wants and thinks about the team. We're trying to improve even more, in terms of arrival, blocking, and defensive reorganization. He'll be better trained in the next few games." 

"The favorites are more from the outside. We know how difficult it is, and we know the squad we have, which was built to pursue titles. Other teams will also be playing and seeking the trophy. I see four or five teams that will be in the running.

"One of the characteristics that caught my attention is his intelligence. He's shown us simple things that make a difference in the game, and we're supporting him, and he's supporting us. It's an opportunity for his career, and we're looking for ways to help him on the field at work and in our daily lives. He's talking a lot, giving us confidence, and also giving us the freedom to make certain plays."

"It was one of the things that made a difference in the friendly we played. Besides being compact, it's important to have this arrival. We're improving day by day, because it makes things easier not only for me but also for those who arrive. Barbieri recognized this and is working hard. In the games, we'll be ready to do what he tells us to do." 

"I've always made it very clear that I have my own goals, as well as collective ones. These are more important than individual ones. They're set within the group's objectives, and I want to start the Brazilian Championship striving for my best. My mindset is always positive; even when things are difficult, I have to keep working and fighting. We have the Brazilian Championship starting on Saturday, and if I score goals, I'll help my teammates, but if I come away with the win, I'll be satisfied." 

"He has the team's complete trust, and what he presents to us on a daily basis follows a line he has been trying to implement his philosophy. As long as he's in charge, we'll give it our all.".