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Quartet waiting for the call-ups

Brazilian and Chilean Flamengo players await rosters for the World Cup in South Africa

By - in

Dunga and Marcelo Bielsa don't have many characteristics in common. One is known for his strong personality and his commitment to his convictions. The other, nicknamed "El Loco," has this madness as his main characteristic, which can be considered both a flaw and a strength. But both will have the Flamengo squad's full attention this Tuesday (May 10.05). Both the Brazilian and Chilean national teams are expected to announce their squads for the World Cup in South Africa, and there are many interested parties at Gávea.

Kleberson and Adriano are eagerly awaiting Dunga's call-up, and they already know what it's like. The midfielder won the 2002 World Cup under Felipão, and the Emperor played in the 2006 World Cup under Parreira. The two are eagerly counting on the support of their teammates, who will be rooting for Dunga's announcement.

"I believe Adriano will have a happy day tomorrow because he'll be on Dunga's list, and he deserves it for everything he's been through in football. He brought joy to Flamengo, Dunga already knows him, and I'm not afraid he won't be on the list. And because of everything he's been through, if that happens, he'll handle it with ease. Anxiety always exists, especially for those who were always being called up. We will always give them support, and they deserve it," said full-back Leonardo Moura.

The World Cup, in fact, is a recurring topic among teammates, especially Chileans Fierro and Maldonado. Both hope to be remembered by "El Loco" when the call-up comes.

"This topic comes up every day, especially with Fierro, who is also waiting, but we are calm. Every game he has played for the national team, he has done well. He can do two or three roles and I believe he will be on the list," revealed Maldonado.

Leo Moura, who said he doesn't want to be a coach after ending his career on the field, believes that both Dunga and Bielsa will be faithful to the work they have done in recent years and, therefore, is betting that his teammates will compete in the World Cup.

"I believe the coach already has a strong group. Great players have emerged, but Dunga is an intelligent person and knows the group he has. Maldo and Fierro are also relaxed. They played a role in Chile and we're rooting for them too. I believe they'll go to the World Cup and will have very happy days," he added.

The list of players competing for the Brazilian national team in the World Cup in South Africa will be released this Tuesday at 13 p.m. The Chilean squad was expected to be released on Monday but has not yet been revealed.