Thiago Sales has the chance to establish himself as a starter

With a trophy-laden career in the youth ranks, defender Thiago Sales has a great chance to establish himself as a starter in the professional team. Coach Cuca named him for tomorrow's derby against Botafogo at Maracanã. Sales was surprised to learn of Ronaldo Angelim's surgery, which will sideline him for at least six weeks. Now, Thiago knows he must seize this unexpected opportunity.

"Angelim is more than a teammate; he's a great player, a role model, and a friend to me. Unfortunately, he had to have surgery, and the opportunity for me to have a run of games came up. That's football, and I need to be ready to take advantage and establish myself," commented the 21-year-old, who has already played 12 professional matches.

With five goals scored for the first team, Thiago Sales makes no secret of his desire to make his mark tomorrow. But his concern lies elsewhere.

"I know I have to help Flamengo keep a clean sheet first. Botafogo has the league's top scorer and some very talented players. In the youth academy, I scored two goals in our 4-1 victory. It's a game I'll never forget. I hope I can score tomorrow, but above all, I hope Flamengo comes out victorious."

After this morning's recreational training session in Gávea, the players went to the training camp at the Windsor Hotel in Barra da Tijuca.