Before traveling with the Flamengo delegation to Paraná, where, this Thursday (16), Mais Querido will face Coritiba at the Couto Pereira stadium, Reinaldo Rueda spoke to journalists in the Victorino Chermont Press Room. The coach commented on the protests that took place at the entrance to Ninho do Urubu in the morning, emphasizing what is needed to reverse this situation.

"We know that when you arrive at a place like this, with all this football culture, there's this kind of pressure. The fans have every right to make it. I believe it's a situation that can only be resolved with hard work and results on the field. At that point, words are no longer enough; we need to work harder so that this translates into results," said the Colombian.

The chance to take the first step in the quest for rehabilitation in this final stretch of the season will be in tomorrow's match. On his way back to Brazil after being on duty with the Brazilian National Team in the friendly against England at Wembley, midfielder Diego will go directly to Curitiba, making himself available to Rueda for the next match, valid for the 35th round of the Brazilian Championship. 

"Diego has a great mental disposition and wants to arrive ready to play. We will assess, after the trip, how he arrives, whether he will start the match or be an alternative for the game. It depends on how he arrives to see if we can count on his experience and ability at this very difficult moment," he observed.

Recovered and back in training with the rest of the team, Juan is expected to return to the squad against Coritiba. The Flamengo coach provided an overview of the number 4's current physical condition, further strengthening the possibility of seeing him in action this Thursday.

"After the game in São Paulo, Juan had three very positive training sessions, overcoming his physical limitations. I believe he is now ready to play. Fortunately, we will be able to count on his experience and composure. We hope this will strengthen the team's performance and that of his teammates in the defensive sector," the coach projected.

With the season drawing to a close, the team's level of concentration needs to be high in every match until the end of 2017, according to the coach. Seeking to secure a direct spot in next year's Copa Libertadores through the Brazilian Championship and aiming to reach the final of the Conmebol Sudamericana, there will be one decisive match after another from then on.

"The Flamengo player has to be involved. He can't pick and choose which games to play. All matches are super intense because all opponents play at a high level and with great intensity against us. The Flamengo player has this responsibility. There is a lot of emphasis on what we need to maintain. A line of continuity, of an ideal performance for our aspirations and for all the demands that exist at Flamengo," he commented.

The ball will start rolling at Couto Pereira at 21 PM for another important challenge.