The red-and-black empire is celebrating. After returning to Brazil sadly and declaring he was returning to Flamengo to recapture his joy, Adriano couldn't be happier: he was Brazilian champion and also the competition's top scorer, with 19 goals. A fan of the club since childhood, the number 10 suffered like the more than 70 fans who were at Maracanã last night. That's why, after the final whistle, the player burst into tears and, a few minutes later, stated that he still hadn't believed in the title.

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"I feel so happy to have once again achieved what I wanted in life. I still can't believe this is happening. My first Brazilian title, especially with Flamengo, which is my home," said the Emperor.

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Flamengo hadn't had a top scorer in the Brazilian Championship since 1982, under Zico. Flamengo hadn't won a Brazilian Championship since 1992. But now, after practically retiring in April, the Emperor found the boost he needed in Gávea to rebuild himself and also to help rebuild Clube de Regatas do Flamengo. Thus, the Emperor ends 2009 smiling and knowing he's turned things around.

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"I returned to Brazil feeling very bad, I was sad. I was out of action for 40 days trying to smile again. Everything I did was worth it. This title is very important. For me and for my family, who suffered with me. Some no longer believed in me," he said.

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The star's future is still uncertain. The striker's contract with Flamengo runs until May of next year, but there are other offers to leave the club. Despite this, the center forward maintains that his priority is Flamengo, but he doesn't guarantee his stay.

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"I have proposals. There are many. I'm not here to lie because everyone will find out later. What matters today is my happiness. Whatever I do will be very well thought out. I hope my answer is to stay. But if not, I will certainly leave my affection and my heart. I will talk to my family and friends. For me, you can be sure that happiness comes first, not money," he concluded.