Palmeiras’ biggest threat comes from next door | OneFootball

Abel Ferreira arrived in Brazil at the end of 2020 and learned to love Palmeiras. I have no doubt and consider him the greatest coach in 111 years of history for achieving so much in such a short time. However, the first season without titles carries problems that go beyond the absence of trophies.

The press conference after the victory over Atlético-MG confirmed the third runner-up position of 2025. The pride in yet another silver medal contrasts with that Abel hungry for victory. Wide-eyed, intense, and capable of getting the most out of the squad are characteristics rarely seen in the last two years of underwhelming football.

The greatest example for Abel is right next door. Years before he arrived here, the rival was an example both on and off the field. They won a lot and got carried away by the achievements. Poor management and memories of a glorious past changed the course in just over a decade. Today, the positive memories serve as excuses for the failures.

Reading the victorious resume as if it were a LinkedIn post looking for a job in the press room of Arena MRV is the last thing Palmeiras needs. The fan, hardened by incredibly difficult years, demands more because they know the current moment can bring more than just runner-up finishes.

It is too early to list the achievements and take pride in what hasn't been won. The neighbor is the biggest example of what not to do. If Abel doesn't know, someone, preferably a Palmeiras fan, needs to tell him so that 2026 will be different.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.