Football Season Guide

Very strange year for ‘Furacão’ in 2021. On one hand, they lifted an international trophy by winning Copa Sulamericana, while reaching the final of Brazilian Cup; on the other hand, they finished very close to the relegation group. Having won 4 knockout major trophies since 2018, Athlético has been more and more a cup-oriented club. This year has started very poorly as ‘Furacão’ failed to reach the final of Campeonato Paranaense (State Championship) for the second year in a row, after 3 consecutive titles and 5 consecutive presences on the final of that competition. Also, Athlético lost the South American Supercup to a much stronger Palmeiras in February and March. Despite being heavily criticized by the fans, Alberto Valentim will remain on the job for the start of the season. Valentim picked only 2 wins in the 6 games he led Athlético, this season. This means the coach will start the league already under pressure. Brazilian international Aderbar Santos had been an absolute reference in goal for 'Furacão, but now he is gone to join Flamengo. Bento is, for now, his replacement. Dedê is a big name signing for the back, although his fitness may be questionable at 33 and after several physical issues in the last years. He may be much too similar to current defensive leader Thiago Heleno (also 33). Khellven and Abner should remain the choices for the full-back positions. Having lost the battling Richard in the holding midfielder position, ‘Furacão’ brought the physical Hugo Moura and the more technical Matheus Fernandes for the position. However, it is the Uruguayan Pablo Siles who seems to be the reference in the central zone. Ahead of him, Leo Cittadini continues to have an important role, but new signings Bueno and García can have a say. Terans’ lack of defensive commitment constantly forces managers to set him more advanced on the pitch rather than the great playmaker he could be otherwise. In attack, two great returns in Marcelo Cirino and Pablo, but the biggest excitement from the fans relates with the excellent international signings, Ukraine Marlos and Uruguayan League best player of last season, striker Canobbio. Matheus Babi (returning from year-long injury) and Pedro Rocha (coming from 3 disappointing seasons) may also have a say on Athlético’s success in this season.