This is a crucial moment for Flamengo. The Flamengo fans have been demanding positive results, and the players know they need to give something extra in every match of a series of 15 games over two months. It's a fundamental stage of the Brasileirão, and the team that manages to impose its best football will climb the table. That's Flamengo's objective.

"Now we've entered a moment where many things will be defined, not just the team and the squad will make the difference. It's important to have a strong squad and now is the time to make mistakes. We can't afford to be careless. We respect Atlético, but at home we'll try for a victory to get things going. Let it start on Thursday," he said.

The player believes that Flamengo is fully capable of competing for the top positions in the Brazilian Championship. According to him, the Flamengo squad has enough quality to defend its title.

"We have to assert ourselves. The team we have doesn't match the position we're in. The team hasn't clicked yet, but we have an obligation to get the three points and we'll try to play a good game at home on Thursday," said the number 7, who took the opportunity to assess his performances in the red-and-black shirt and the strong competition for a place in midfield.

"I think I'm doing well. The team's results aren't coming, and that's bad, but we're going to have a run now where everyone is important. Competition has to exist because Flamengo is a big club, the championship is long, and you need a squad. It's no use having just one team," he concluded.

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