Football Season Guide

A very nice final third gave Paços de Ferreira access to another top flight season, this year. Paços seemed doomed at one point, but Pepa's managerial skills and some great January signings gave 'Castores' a second life in the season. Paços will try to have a less problematic season, which won't certainly be easy. Club managed to keep most players, which is good. Even some players that were only on loan came back for one more season at Mata Real, like Eustáquio, Murilo or João Amaral. Last season's playmaker and arguably the best player all season, Pedrinho left to join Eastern European football. Bruno Costa was brought in to try and replace him. Costa has been delaying his affirmation at professional football, and may find Paços the ideal place to finally confirm his potential. The iconic but liable Ricardo Ribeiro left; Jordi was brought in, but doesn't seem much of an improvement. Fortunately, Michael was also brought. While a much safer pair of hands, he may start the season as second option due to Jordi's hyped reputation and earlier arrival. Maracás, Marcelo and Baixinho were kept, which will do wonders for the team's stability at the back, which also has Jorge Silva and Oleg for the full-back positions. Eustáquio extending his loan contract was a great move from the board, who can trust on a very competent midfield with experienced Luiz Carlos and Diaby being kept as well. In attack, the prolific Tanque will have many possible partners for wingers. Amaral, Castanheira and Hélder just a few. Coach Pepa's competence has been increasing over the years, and the former striker is now one of the good values in the country.