Whether with or without the ball, the players' dedication during the preseason in Teresópolis is positively impressing coach Cuca. Whether in the demanding physical exercises or technical work, what we've seen so far is a group focused on strictly following the coaching staff's instructions so that the rewards can be reaped in the future. This morning, under yet another sunny day at Granja Comary, the coach made it clear that their current commitment is crucial to their success throughout the year.

"We miss our family, and we talked about it as soon as we arrived here at Granja. It's not easy for anyone to be away from home for 10, 15 days, but it's very important for the future. It's not just one person who left their family in Rio; it's all the professionals involved in the work here. But any achievement is made of sacrifice. We'll fuel our efforts with dedication, commitment, and sacrifice. Later on, everyone will see how important this period was," Cuca analyzed.

The coach acknowledged that he hopes to sign midfielder Zé Roberto, but prefers to think about the best way to use the player only after the negotiations are concluded.

"Zé Roberto fits into any team. He'll need more time to break into the team, because if the signing is finalized, he'll have to do the same work with the other players. For now, everything is hypothetical, and I'd rather wait to think about him when he's already here," said Cuca, without dwelling on some of Zé Roberto's past issues.

"He's learned a lot. We've already talked, and Zé Roberto is experiencing a moment of affirmation. This affects the player, and he will certainly dedicate himself to living up to what is expected here at Flamengo."