Juan evaluates performances and reinforces group unity
Left-back clarifies that he has started playing more for the team since Andrade's arrival
By From the team at Flamengo's official website - in
CARACAS – Praise and criticism. This has been left-back Juan's fate in Flamengo's starting lineup, where he's been since 2006. And, after the start of the year, where he's been getting into his rhythm, he showed, against Resende last weekend, the same style of play that established him as one of the best in his position in Brazil.
Knowing his qualities as a player, Juan is keen to defend his current tactical role on the team, as well as that of his teammate, right-back Léo Moura.
"I, like the whole group, have been improving as the games go by. When we get more rhythm, we can play better matches. People sometimes have a tendency to demand that you perform like you did the day you played a great game. That's not always possible. Léo Moura and I have been fulfilling our role very well, which is to help Flamengo," said Juan.
The Rubro-negro left-back also made a point of highlighting the change in positioning that he underwent after Andrade took over the team.
"Nobody remembers that we used to play with more freedom. However, that's changed. We're important to the team, both Léo and I, but first and foremost, protecting the defense. Our tactics have changed, and we've had to adapt to that. I don't think we've had any problems with that, but people need to understand that we don't play like we used to, with as much freedom," he explains.
And anyone who thinks Juan's comment was meant as a tone of disenchantment or venting is completely mistaken. The player is aware of what Andrade wants from the team and shows himself prepared to deliver.
"Today, the group has more options in its squad. This makes everyone's life easier. We know this and we will always seek the best for the team. Flamengo's strength is in unity, regardless of any problem. We are united", concluded the player, showing the spirit with which the team will enter the field this Wednesday (10.03), against Caracas, away from home, for the second round of the Copa Libertadores.
Knowing his qualities as a player, Juan is keen to defend his current tactical role on the team, as well as that of his teammate, right-back Léo Moura.
"I, like the whole group, have been improving as the games go by. When we get more rhythm, we can play better matches. People sometimes have a tendency to demand that you perform like you did the day you played a great game. That's not always possible. Léo Moura and I have been fulfilling our role very well, which is to help Flamengo," said Juan.
The Rubro-negro left-back also made a point of highlighting the change in positioning that he underwent after Andrade took over the team.
"Nobody remembers that we used to play with more freedom. However, that's changed. We're important to the team, both Léo and I, but first and foremost, protecting the defense. Our tactics have changed, and we've had to adapt to that. I don't think we've had any problems with that, but people need to understand that we don't play like we used to, with as much freedom," he explains.
And anyone who thinks Juan's comment was meant as a tone of disenchantment or venting is completely mistaken. The player is aware of what Andrade wants from the team and shows himself prepared to deliver.
"Today, the group has more options in its squad. This makes everyone's life easier. We know this and we will always seek the best for the team. Flamengo's strength is in unity, regardless of any problem. We are united", concluded the player, showing the spirit with which the team will enter the field this Wednesday (10.03), against Caracas, away from home, for the second round of the Copa Libertadores.