Adriano is presented as Flamengo's newest signing for the 2009 season.

At a grand party in the Gávea's main hall, Flamengo presented striker Adriano as the newest addition to the team for the 2009 season. At 27 years old, the Emperor didn't hide his joy at returning to the club that launched his career.

“I returned to my home, where I was raised. I came back to Brazil to find my happiness, and returning to Flamengo brings me that. I want to be close to my friends, and that way I'll perform better. Wearing this shirt gives me back the joy of playing football. The joy has returned. I never thought about stopping. I just wanted to take some time to relax and be with my family and friends, who are the people who love me.”

Smiling broadly, the striker, who left Internazionale (ITA), said that one of the reasons he signed with Flamengo was the certainty of being close to his family and friends.

“I’ve always liked to laugh, to joke, to have fun. That wasn’t happening in Italy. And as soon as I returned to Brazil, it didn’t take me long to be happy again. Many people in Milan don’t believe it, I know, but I simply made a choice for my life. Which today, is Flamengo. My grandmother is one of the people responsible for me being here today. She and my family. When I entered the club today, I felt like I was seven years old again, which was the age I started here.”

During his gala presentation, Adriano stated that one of his goals at Flamengo is to return to playing for the Brazilian National Team.

"Being at Flamengo brings me closer to the national team. But that will depend on my performance. I have a great relationship with everyone on the national team and I think I can return if I'm doing well."

The Emperor believes he will be fit to return to playing football in 25 days.

"I don't have a start date yet. I need to undergo medical exams and discuss my physical condition with the coaching staff. I haven't completely lost my form, but of course I need a good amount of time to get close to one hundred percent. I believe I'll be ready by June 1st. I'll meet with Dr. Runco to assess my physical condition."

After the press conference in the main hall, Adriano went to the Gávea field to be greeted by about three thousand fans.