In a press conference held after training this morning at the George Helal Training Center in Vargem Grande, Marcelo Cirino spoke to the journalists present. Among the topics discussed, the striker spoke about Flamengo's aspirations in the Brazilian Championship, which will start next Saturday (14), and about the decisive game against Fortaleza, next Wednesday (18), for the Copa do Brasil.

Preparation for the Brazilian Championship and the Brazilian Cup

We know we need to start this competition well, so we have to turn things around in the Copa do Brasil and focus on our debut. By starting the Brazilian Championship well, we can focus on the Copa do Brasil.

Team confidence

We're sad, as we were aiming for two championships, but we're aware of the quality of our squad. But as I said before, we need to turn things around and focus on the Brasileirão, as it's a longer and more difficult competition.

Where Flamengo can go

Looking at our squad, we could be champions. Some clubs are ahead of the game by maintaining their squad and coaching staff, but most teams, like ours, have undergone a lot of changes. However, I can see Flamengo fighting for the title.

Rio rivals

I'm not saying we're behind. We've improved in some aspects. Flamengo, in itself, has improved. Not reaching the Carioca and Primeira Liga finals leaves a question mark in people's minds, but we're confident we can improve with an eye on the Copa do Brasil and the Campeonato Brasileiro.

Influence of Carioca and Primeira Liga

Given the current situation, Saturday's game (14) becomes even more important. We're confident we can achieve a positive result in this match. We can view this poor campaign in the Carioca from two perspectives: it could either serve as a boost for the Brazilian Championship or it could undermine us, resulting in a poor campaign. I'm sure this will give us strength.

* Under the supervision of Ricardo Taves