Attacking returns give Crespo more options at São Paulo | OneFootball

Despite being eliminated from the Campeonato Paulista, São Paulo had an important development during the semifinal match against Palmeiras. André Silva entered the field at the 41st minute of the second half, returning to the pitch after seven months of recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament strain and a posterior cruciate ligament injury in his knee. In addition to him, Ryan Francisco is also nearing a return after anterior cruciate surgery, and together, they promise to give Hernán Crespo a headache in selecting his forwards.

With the return of the two strikers, São Paulo now has five players available for the position: Luciano, Tapia, Calleri, André Silva, and Ryan.

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Crespo has opted to use Luciano and Calleri as the attacking duo for São Paulo, and both have impressive numbers at the start of the season. The number 10 has three goals and three assists in 13 matches, while the Argentine has scored seven goals in the same number of games.

Tapia has more modest numbers but has made important contributions to the club since he was signed. In 2026, he scored two goals, both in derbies against Corinthians and Santos. Since joining São Paulo, he has stood out with his performances against the São Paulo rivals and has already scored four goals in derbies.

Despite the injury last season, André Silva was in a goal-scoring phase with 14 goals in 2025 and is looking to reclaim his spot among the starting eleven. Meanwhile, Ryan was finding his place in Crespo's team and had scored three goals in his last five appearances before the injury.

Thus, the Argentine coach expands his range of options at an important moment, as he has complained more than once about the short squad and emphasized the need for reinforcements.

Next Match

São Paulo vs Chapecoense (Campeonato Brasileiro) Date and Time: March 12, 2026 (Thursday) 8 PM Location: Canindé Stadium, São Paulo

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