Willian Arão clings to Flamengo's title hopes after Atlético Mineiro loss | OneFootball

Willian Arão has called on Flamengo to revive the spirit of 2019 following Sunday’s defeat to Atlético Mineiro.

Goals from Ignacio Fernández and Ademir in either half ended Atlético’s run of four Brasileirão games without a win.

For Flamengo, however, it was sixth league defeat in just 13 games this season, and their second in three outings under new manager Dorival Júnior.

Despite the bleak outlook (Fla are languishing in 13th spot), midfielder Arão claimed the Rubro-Negro don’t need to look too far into the past to find inspiration.

“It is a reality (gap to the top), but there are many games ahead,” Arão, who replaced Andreas Pereira at half-time at the Mineirão, told Premiere.

“If I’m not mistaken, in 2019 we were 10 points behind. The championship doesn’t end now. We have to improve a lot. We will improve, and we will go after the damage.”

Flamengo do lie 10 points behind current leaders Palmeiras, though the Alviverde have played a game less.

Next up for the Mengão is a quick return to the Mineirão as they face Atlético again on Wednesday in the first leg of their Copa do Brasil round of 16 tie.