Two-time state champion, Copa do Brasil champion, and current Flamengo player with the most appearances (196 matches), Leonardo Moura knows all too well the weight of being considered a favorite in a competition. Flamengo's continued core squad, as expected, is seen as a positive for the start of the season. Leonardo Moura acknowledges that Flamengo could even start the season ahead in the race for the state title, but with the experience gained throughout his career, he warns about the realities of football.

"I've been through a lot here at Flamengo, and I see the club improving every day, strengthening the team and fighting for titles. We had an excellent 2007. Last year could have been better, but this year will certainly be very good for us. But there's no point in just talking; we have to show on the field that we can be champions," the player stated.

Leonardo Moura is another player who sees coach Cuca already in tune with the squad and is confident that the coach will make Flamengo as competitive as the others he has managed in the past. What the full-back doesn't want is for Flamengo to settle for simply winning the state championship.

"Because it's the beginning of the season and all the clubs have strengthened, the state championship becomes a highly competitive competition. But I always think about winning every championship I compete in. There's no point thinking that winning the regional championship is enough. We have to fight year-round to win everything possible."