Rodinei highlights isolated leadership before the World Cup break
The full-back gave a press conference on Friday afternoon (8) at Ninho do Urubu
By Nathan Mello - in
The players returned to training today at the Ninho do Urubu Training Center after yesterday's big win in the derby and have already begun preparing for the upcoming match against Paraná this Sunday at Maracanã. Right-back Rodinei, a starter against Fluminense, underwent recovery work at the Fluminense Training Center and spoke to the press after the training session. He highlighted their undisputed lead in the competition ahead of the break for the World Cup in Russia.
"We've been planning this; we know that every Brazilian game is like a final. But we knew that finishing as leaders before the World Cup would be great. This extra cushion is very important; it will help us return with confidence after this break."
The red-and-black youth academy has been gaining a significant presence in the starting lineup. In the last game, six homegrown players were on the field. Lucas Paquetá, a regular starter and key player this season, will not face Paraná in the next round after receiving his third yellow card. The number 2 spoke about the importance of the "Garotos do Ninho" to the team and Paquetá's absence.
"Paquetá will be sorely missed; he's one of the standouts. Just like Diego was. But we have a good squad. The important thing is that everyone knows they have to play the same game. I know they'll get the job done. Paquetá will definitely be missed, but Diego is back. Seeing six players from the youth academy, from Ninho, in the starting lineup is very important. It's gratifying. In the youth academy, we have Klebinho on the wing; I'm a fan of his. That's how it is here: you have to show your quality, keep working, but the kids are doing really well."