The technician Abel Ferreira projected Palmeiras’ 2026 season and spoke of “anger” at the lack of achievements last year. In a message to the fans, the coach admitted that he owes a return for the “frustrations and disappointments” of 2025.
According to Abel, last year’s performance should be transformed into feelings of “energy, character, pride and some anger”.
“Let’s fight to win and may we share these joys with you, fans. May the frustrations and disappointments of last year be transformed into energy, character, pride and some anger too, so that this year we can give those joys that we owe not only to you, but also to ourselves”, he said.
“We know how much we dedicate ourselves within the club to reach the titles we want so much and we work to make them happen”, added the coach, at the re-presentation at the Football Academy.
With a contract renewed until the end of 2027, Abel Ferreira will enter his sixth season at Palmeiras. He was characterized by criticizing aspects of Brazilian football, such as the local calendar. This year was no different.
The São Paulo Football Federation (FPF) redefined the format of the Campeonato Paulista amid changes promoted by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) — Series A of the Brazilian Championship will begin at the end of this month, for example. In addition to the change in format, the State Championship will start even earlier than usual, on the second weekend of January.
“I can’t help but make a constructive criticism of the São Paulo Football Federation. Taking into account that some teams stayed until later to compete, it doesn’t seem sensible and good for the players’ health at the end of a week to have the first official game when there are other clubs that have been preparing since November and December. I don’t think it’s fair, we must think and reflect”, analyzed Abel.
“We know that the players are coming off a 30-day vacation, which is important, after 11 months of high competition, intensity, risk and travel, to be able to switch off to recover batteries and dedicate time to family. Normally you give yourself three to four weeks to prepare for the first official game”, he added.
Palmeiras debuts in the Campeonato Paulista against Portuguesa, at 8:30 pm this Saturday (10), at Canindé.
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