Renato appears dressed in character

Supporter wears mask and red and black shirt throughout press conference

By From the team at Flamengo's official website - in 04/08/2010 às 18:16

In addition to his talent and dedication on the field, Renato Abreu showed he can help Flamengo in another way during his official presentation with the club: his good humor. Beloved not only by the fans but also by the group, the player was given the number 11 jersey, which has recently become a fan favorite, donned the mask that earned him the nickname "King Vulture," and reaffirmed his love for the club. All with a sense of fun.

At 32 years old, the "Cannon of Gávea" had his first training session this Wednesday (04.08) and, soon after, wore the Sacred Mantle again, alongside president Patricia Amorim and the executive director of football, Zico. The supporter assured that his aim remains sharp and predicts a soon return to official matches for Flamengo.

Happy to have the chance to wear number 11 for the Red-Blacks again and eager to play alongside Petkovic, Renato hopes to bring new joy to the nation. Check out the full interview with Flamengo's new signing below.

Return - I was eager to return. I was away for three seasons, and Flamengo made a huge effort to bring me back. I'd like to thank Fábio Luciano (former Flamengo captain) and Cláudio Guadagno (manager) for their help. I want to debut soon, but I'll take it slow and do everything I can to help Flamengo.

Aim - The aim remains. I just need to calibrate and regain my fitness. I did training sessions scheduled by the club in the United Arab Emirates, but the heat made things difficult. Now is the time to get back to it and bring joy to the fans.

Flamengo - Flamengo has evolved a lot. During my years here, I made great friends. People who helped the club grow during its most difficult times. We'll keep working, because Flamengo is always competing for titles and has learned a lot from its mistakes. That's what a great team is like. We're on the right track. There's still a lot to happen, and we have the squad to turn things around in the Brazilian Championship. Flamengo is always competing for titles and has learned a lot from its mistakes. That's what a great team is like. We're on the right track. There's still a lot to happen in the Championship, and we have the squad to turn things around.

Mask - Unfortunately, wearing a mask was banned by FIFA. It was something that left its mark on Flamengo, but I'm sure the fans will represent me this way off the field and wear it at Maracanã.

Charge - The pressure will always be there, regardless of whether we're in first or last place. People know the weight of the jersey today, and we'll try to do our best on the field to lead Flamengo to titles.

Petkovic - I'll work with Pet as best I can. He's a great player, I haven't met him personally yet, but I'm really looking forward to it.

Preparation - I did physical training sessions mandated by the club. I couldn't do much due to the heat in the Emirates, and I hope to continue training now.

Historic Game - The game that really stuck with me was against Defensor in 2007, because the fans recognized our work and commitment in that match. Those two goals were very important.

Shirt 11 - The number 11 jersey is a passion. I couldn't wear it abroad, but Flamengo kept it for me. I'm very happy now.