Rui Costa defends Roger Machado, urges São Paulo fans to support team amid criticism
São Paulo FC football director Rui Costa has publicly defended head coach Roger Machado against growing criticism from the club’s supporters, urging fans to provide support during matches despite their frustrations.
Speaking exclusively to UOL columnist Pedro Lopes, Costa addressed the recent wave of protests directed at both himself and Machado, acknowledging that fan frustration has been building over recent years although maintaining that the criticism directed at the team crosses certain lines.
“The fans have every right to criticize the players, technical staff and management. What I humbly question is that for the 90 minutes the stands be our ally, as they always have been,” Costa stated in the interview published April 25, 2026.
Costa specifically rejected accusations that São Paulo fans’ behavior has been racist in nature, calling such claims unjust and demonstrating a lack of understanding of the club’s history and identity.
“I don’t believe or see racism in the São Paulo fan’s manifestations. Whoever says this doesn’t know the club, its history and its idols,” the football director emphasized.
The interview comes amid visible demonstrations from supporters during recent matches, including the 1-0 Copa do Brasil victory over Juventude where fans directed chants at both Costa and Machado before, during and after the game.
According to Costa, the frustration expressed by fans stems from accumulated disappointment over time rather than isolated incidents, though he maintains that post-match criticism remains acceptable as long as it remains non-violent.
“After the match, I believe any non-violent manifestation is valid,” Costa added, distinguishing between acceptable post-game feedback and in-stadium behavior that undermines team performance.
The football director also provided additional context regarding the decision to dismiss former head coach Hernán Crespo and appoint Machado in his place, stating that players have embraced the new technical approach under Machado’s leadership.
Costa confirmed that the club has maintained regular salary payments to players and staff, which he views as a positive factor contributing to recent evolution in team performance despite ongoing challenges.
Addressing speculation about his personal relationship with Machado, Costa clarified that their interaction remains strictly professional, emphasizing that his primary commitment is to the institution of São Paulo FC rather than any individual affiliations.
“The relationship is professional and my commitment is with the club,” Costa stated when asked about perceptions of friendship between himself and the head coach.
These comments align with recent public statements from São Paulo FC president Harry Massis, who also expressed confidence in both Costa and Machado following a meeting with representatives from the Nova União political group that encompasses over 180 club councilors.
Massis emphasized the importance of unity among all São Paulo supporters to achieve the club’s objectives, describing fans as “our great fuel to fight for the best for the institution.”
The São Paulo faithful have voiced particular discontent with Machado’s tactical decisions and team selection in recent fixtures, with some directing specific criticism toward forward Caio Domínguez during matches.
Costa’s appeal for fan support comes at a critical juncture in the season as São Paulo competes on multiple fronts, including the Copa do Brasil where they advanced past Juventude with a narrow 1-0 victory despite the pre-match protests.
The football director’s remarks reflect an ongoing effort by club leadership to bridge the growing divide between management and supporters while maintaining accountability for on-field performance.
As São Paulo prepares for upcoming fixtures, the club’s hierarchy continues to publicly back their football director and head coach while urging fans to channel their passion into supportive behavior during matches.
The next official update on the situation is expected following São Paulo’s next scheduled match, where fan behavior and team performance will again be closely monitored by both club officials and local media.
What are your thoughts on Rui Costa’s appeal for fan support? Share your perspective in the comments below and join the conversation about São Paulo FC’s current challenges.
