This Wednesday at the Arena, Grêmio and Juventude will face each other during the 34th day of the Brazilian Championship. Given their positions in the rankings, this is a direct matchup. The capital team currently sits in 12th place with 39 points, just two points ahead of the home side, who are the first team beyond the relegation zone.
Two decades ago, two Grêmio players experienced a similar moment of concern during the final phase of the Brasileirão, both in 2003 and 2004. In both cases, two attackers were key members of the French squad. Years later, they left the Olímpico, traveled across Brazil and the world, and also stopped off in Caxias do Sul to wear the colors of Juventude: Christian and Cláudio Pitbull.
With abundant experience in football, the duo was invited to comment on the situation of Grêmio and Juventude, touching on other topics such as the striker’s position in Renato’s team and the current phase of Roger Machado, their former teammate at the Tricolor.
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CHRISTIAN
In 2003, Grêmio experienced a similar situation to today. What would you say to those who carry the responsibility for winning on Wednesday?
Yes, in 2003, Grêmio went through a similar situation. It’s understandable that no one wants to experience that, especially at a club with such a great tradition. This reflects that the season did not go well and the planning did not materialize as expected. For those who are there and have the responsibility to win on Wednesday, it is crucial to remember that it will be a very tense match. The players’ emotions will be tested, and the strategy on the pitch will be decisive. The pressure will be intense, and it is important for each player to show determination in clashes from the first minute, proving to the fans their commitment. Turning that pressure into support is essential for the team’s success during the game.
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Adilson Batista, in 2003, at one point in the season, took Tinga and Gilberto out of the team so they could better condition themselves for the finals. Renato is now signaling changes to make the team more offensive. Do you think this is the way forward for the match at the Arena?
I think that at this time, the coach should look for the best solutions within the squad. He is responsible for understanding the dynamics and needs of the team to make the right decisions. In 2003, Adilson was fundamental during this difficult process. For the upcoming match, especially against an opponent fighting against relegation, it is crucial to arrive with full strength. This approach could be vital to get three points and bring some calm to the group. Offensiveness can be a good strategy, but it is also important to maintain balance and defensive solidity. The combination of these factors can make the difference at the Arena.
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Concerning the Brasileirão and the Libertadores, can Botafogo, where you also played, win both titles, or will Palmeiras and Atlético Mineiro claim another Olympics?
Regarding the Brasileirão, I still have some doubts about Botafogo, although I think they are playing the best football in Brazil this year. Their schedule includes head-to-head clashes against Palmeiras and other strong teams also looking to revive. Therefore, we cannot rule out Palmeiras, who is still alive in the competition. As for the Libertadores, I see Botafogo with a more balanced team, which could be decisive in a unique final. If they can maintain the consistency, they have a good chance of lifting the trophy. It will be interesting to see how this all plays out.
CLÁUDIO PITBULL
What is the role of the sports director in the locker room at the moment? What is the player really considering at this moment?
There are directors who help and others who slightly hinder, they can create confusion. The responsibility lies with the players on the field. Renato will look to field the best team, but it will be the players who change the situation. And if the fans support them, that will make the difference. We felt it when we played at the Olímpico.
Did you know Braitwait? What do you think of him at Grêmio, taking into account that he surprised everyone with his rapid adaptation?
I saw a few of his matches abroad. He has a lot of quality, and in Brazil the level is somewhat lower, so when someone better comes along, especially someone who adapts well, he stands out. He’s going to help, even with the team going through a tough time. The ball doesn’t reach him much. If he was in a better moment he would have scored a lot more goals. In a better coordinated team, he has all the qualities to be a great scorer for Grêmio.
I have to tell you about Roger, because in addition to being former teammates, you are friends. What do you think of his work at Inter?
Roger is a guy I have a special affection for. He was one of the people who helped me the most when I started, along with Danrlei. We had the pleasure of working for a long time at Grêmio then at Fluminense. He is someone I visit at his home; he helped me a lot both professionally and personally. I’m not surprised by his work. He managed to put Inter in the race for the Libertadores. We support our friends even when they are rivals. My affection for Grêmio is eternal, but I wish him good luck. However, I would like to congratulate the Grêmio fans for what they have achieved this unusual year. They filled the stadiums, wherever they were, far from Porto Alegre, like in Curitiba and Chapecó. This shows that this fan base makes all the difference.
