After coach Joel Santana announced he would transfer to the South African national team after the Campeonato Carioca final, Flamengo's players mourned the loss of their Flamengo manager. Léo Moura was one of the players who expressed deep emotion over Joel's decision.

"It feels like we've lost a member of our family. At the same time, we're happy he'll have the opportunity to play in a World Cup. Joel was important to every player in the squad."

Midfielder Toró thanked the coach for the support he gave him during his time at Gávea.

"Joel was very important in my recovery at Flamengo. He's a great coach, and let's hope he's very successful at the World Cup."