Football Season Guide

‘Coelho’ was one of the sensations of last season. They were coming directly from Série B and, against any expectations, they had a very regular run in their return to top flight, earning access to Libertadores playoff stage of the following season. Winger Ademir was a big part of América’s success in that season. Mixed feelings in the early months of 2022 for ‘Coelho’. Finished 5th in the State Championship from Minas Gerais, which was their worst performance in competition in almost a decade. On the other hand, they managed to qualify for Libertadores’ group stage for the first time ever, after two qualifications in playoff stages on the penalty shootouts. Coach Marquinhos seems to be willing to keep the 4-3-3 formation from last season, with 3 hard-working men in midfield (or just two, now that Matheusinho and Índio Ramirez are on the side). Goalkeeper Jailson arrived from Palmeiras to replace Cavicholi, out for undetermined time with a heart problem. Conti, Maidana and Éder are really good new additions for the centre-back position, although 20-years old Gustavo should be given many chances throughout the season. Caceres and youngster Junio are the main options for full-backs. Centre-half Lucas Kal seems more and more a solid option for the holding midfielder position, playing either alongside Zé Ricardo, Juninho or Alê. Club’s darling Matheusinho is back after astonishing season with the green and black shirt in 2019. Ramirez arrived from Bahia and will be a great new signing if he finds his fitness back after a very long injury in 2021. Veteran Wellington Paulista came from Fortaleza and looks the first choice for the striker position, after Zarate left. Everaldo was brought in with the difficult mission to replace Ademir on the wing. Eyes on young talented wingers Kawé and Adyson, 19 and 16-year-old respectively. Bóia was brought as a Ukraine refugee and may be the main attraction in attack.