What Nicolás De la Cruz said when asked about River’s final loss to Flamengo

The absence of Nicolas De la Cruz In River It will be impossible to ignore him for the simple reason that he is an elite player, perhaps the best local footballer in recent years. Núñez’s cast had as much fun as they could and now he will be the supporter Flamengo those who break their hands to applaud the 26-year-old Uruguayan midfielder, officially presented this Friday in Rio de Janeiro. And the Rio journalists did not hold back and asked him about the final of the Copa Libertadores lost 2-1 in Lima in 2019, with a brace from Gabriel Barbosa in the final minutes of the duel.

“I would like to go back in time a little, to the year 2019”a reporter named Bruno began, prompting laughter from De la Cruz and the rest of the audience. “Step by step”the Uruguayan said mischievously. “It makes me uncomfortable. I don’t like losing to anything, especially to a Libertadores final. The feeling was one of disappointment, of great pain. We had prepared to win that Cup, it was a balanced but beautiful match. That’s where the answer ends.”the steering wheel replied politely.

“We made the decision to come to Flamengo some time ago with my family. The project they proposed to me was very important. Also that they offered me a multi-year contract, which will make me earn a lot of things. “I have two daughters and we want to be close to our home so that they grow up in a healthy environment.”De la Cruz said.

And he added: “The first day I arrived here they told me that Zico was there and that he wanted to welcome me to the club. It was a big surprise that he knew me, that he knew something about my story. That someone so important appreciates what I have done is exciting. And it inspires me to continue.”

De la Cruz also spoke about his problems with synovitis in his right knee. “I underwent treatment a few months ago and then I no longer suffered. I did all the training and matches at River. Flamengo is aware of all this and the medical examination was found to be in perfect condition. “I know that the Brazilian football calendar is extensive and I am ready to respect it.”She said.

Finally, the Montevideo-born man spoke of his daughters’ fanaticism for River and the enthusiasm the change of team has generated in them. “They accompany me at all times. From the moment they learned of the decision they didn’t stop asking us when we would come to Brazil and started shouting ‘Flamengo, Flamengo’. In all these years they have become River fans: they know all the songs. I think they will adapt soon and become flamenguists straight away. “No, Cata?”Flyer replied, looking at his daughters who were in the press room.