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Juan: "We have to assimilate and learn"

Defender comments on the club's situation after defeat to Vasco

By - in
After training this Wednesday (27), at the George Helal Training Center, defender Juan answered questions on various topics during the press conference, from his entry onto the field in the game against Vasco, which took place in Manaus last Sunday, to captain Wallace's relationship with the fans.

See the main excerpts:

Result
Every defeat is difficult, especially at Flamengo, where the teams are always on opposite sides. When you win, it's wonderful, and when you lose, it's the same, only on the negative side. Now it's time to get our heads together and reflect on the work we've done these four months. We definitely have to improve a lot, because the Brazilian Championship is about to start, which is more difficult than the Primeira Liga and Carioca. We have to be more competitive because our goals haven't been achieved yet. It's not the end of the tunnel, but we know it's not good. We've lost important games. With the group we have, we'll live with the obligation to win.

Ball forward
I'm upset, especially for not reaching the final, which was a goal of ours. It was a chance to play at the Maracanã, and we wanted it to happen. But while we're unhappy, we have to look ahead. We have a very important game on Wednesday, too, in the Copa do Brasil. So we have to correct our mistakes, train hard throughout the week, and continue our preparation for the Brazilian Championship.

What was missing in Fla x Vas
I think the point isn't necessarily to give something extra. We need to evolve as a team. After a loss, we have to assimilate and learn. We can't forget this because it's a bad moment, but rather look forward and work harder.

Wallace, Captain
Wallace is the captain, and my duty is to support him, as he would any other player. Internally, he demonstrates his leadership through the person and professionalism he displays. I will always be by his side, as I would be by any teammate going through a difficult time.

Fans' relationship with Wallace
I wasn't here last year to know how this happened. In the Copa do Brasil (won by Flamengo in 2013), he played really well, and the fans loved him. During my first stint here, I saw this up close. There were players who were booed in the first minute of the game, but they turned things around. Getting back to winning ways is the most important thing; with victories, these things are forgotten.

About the flag episode
It was a discussion between some people at the club and some players, nothing pre-arranged, to do something to honor the Manaus fans. This is an idea that occurs in other sports, usually outside of Brazil. Our intention was never to provoke Vasco or the players.

About the red-black children
Our intention was never to harm the children or to shatter their dreams. Everyone on the squad was once a child, and I've even been on the field with the team, so I know how important it is. We'll probably play in Manaus again, and I'll be delighted to be on the field with the kids.