Palmeiras’ biggest threat is right 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 winning so much in such a short time. However, the first season without titles brings problems that go beyond the absence of trophies.

The press conference after the victory over Atlético-MG confirmed the third runner-up finish of 2025. The pride in yet another silver medal contrasts with that Abel who was thirsty for victory. Wide-eyed, intense, and able to get the most out of the squad—these are characteristics that have been 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 a model both on and off the field. They won a lot and let themselves be carried away by their achievements. Poor management and memories of a glorious past changed their course in just over a decade. Today, those positive memories serve as excuses for the humiliations.

Reading the winning résumé as if it were a LinkedIn post in the press room at Arena MRV is the last thing Palmeiras needs. The fans, hardened by incredibly difficult years, demand more because they know the current moment is capable of bringing more than just runner-up finishes.

It is far too soon to list the achievements and be proud of what hasn’t been won. The neighbor is the biggest example of what not to do. If Abel doesn’t know this, 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.