One of Flamengo's standouts last season, left-back Juan is expecting a year of many victories for the red-and-black team from Gávea. His first goal is the Campeonato Carioca title, which begins on Sunday for Flamengo with the match against Friburguense at 17 p.m. at the Maracanã stadium.

"Our first goal this year is to win the Carioca championship for the third time. I think this year's championship will be tougher than in 2008 and 2007. The smaller teams have strengthened and will be a real handful. Plus, we'll have away games, which makes the Carioca even tougher. There's always a lot of pressure."

For Juan, there's nothing better than starting the competition with a victory.

"At home, we have to get results. We can't afford to be careless and lose points playing at the Maracanã in front of our home fans. If we do our job at home, we'll qualify."