After securing a derby victory against Fluminense, goalkeeper Rossi hit back at criticism from the media and demanded respect, highlighting the need for unity at a decisive moment in Flamengo’s season.
The atmosphere in Flamengo‘s mixed zone after the 1-0 win over Fluminense on Sunday (11) was marked by a forceful outburst from goalkeeper Rossi.
The shot-stopper took the opportunity to directly respond to criticism received following the draw against Santos, defending his technical performance and questioning how the media handled the narrative.
For the number 1, outside analysis of his recent performances does not match the internal data evaluated by the coaching staff.
With the Brazilian Serie A lead at stake, the player emphasized that the focus should be on supporting the squad, rather than searching for scapegoats at such a delicate moment in the season.
Answering on the pitch
Throughout the match against Tricolor, Rossi showed composure, making crucial saves that secured all three points.
The keeper was tested on a long-range effort from Martinelli and later in a one-on-one situation against Serna, where he neutralized the attack that could have leveled the score following Carrascal‘s goal.
“A villain to you guys. Our personal analysis on a daily basis with the goalkeeper coach shows that my game against Santos was actually one of the safest I had played, up until the goal. The play with Jorginho was more about the injustice of the red card. Everything that was said, trying to find someone to blame, is unjustifiable. At this stage of the season, we need all the support we can get.”
The future and the stakes ahead
Rossi‘s stance reflects a player fully aware of the pressure that comes with wearing Flamengo‘s shirt.
With 64 points, the Rio de Janeiro club remains atop the table, but total focus is required moving forward. The next major challenge is the clash against Estudiantes in the Copa Libertadores semifinals.
The first leg, scheduled for October 15 in Argentina, is seen as a turning point for the rest of the year.
By demanding a different approach from the media, the goalkeeper reinforces his desire to enter this decisive phase with a protected environment, turning last week’s doubts into fuel for the confidence needed on the path to the finals.
