Palmeiras ready as Larson targets three points in Paulistão

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Nosso Palestra

·9 janvier 2026

Palmeiras ready as Larson targets three points in Paulistão

Palmeiras trained on the morning of this Friday (9th), at the Football Academy, and continued their preparations for the start of the 2026 season. The Verdão team will debut in the Campeonato Paulista this Saturday (10th), at 8:30 PM (Brasília time), against Portuguesa, at Canindé, and carried out technical and tactical work focused on the first official match of the year.

The squad was divided into two groups for specific activities such as game construction, triangulations, defensive balance, and finishing, among other aspects. Afterwards, the players played small-sided games. In physical transition, Lucas Evangelista and Figueiredo warmed up with the group and then worked separately on the pitch.

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Having started in the last match of last year, against Ceará in the Brasileirão, midfielder Larson ended 2025 on a high note with the fans. Integrated into the main squad’s support group during the 2026 pre-season, the 20-year-old hopes to make the most of his opportunities in the Paulistão.

I was very happy with my performance in the last game against Ceará, even more so because of the win, which is the most important thing. I had an idea that I might play, but I didn’t know for sure. The coach gave me the opportunity and I tried to make the most of it. I was very happy with the game. I’m very happy with the compliments, but I always try to keep my head focused. We know how football works, it’s a roller coaster and we always have to stay focused and at a high level.

Last Wednesday (7th), Larson scored one of the goals in the training match against Desportivo Brasil, held at the Football Academy itself. The midfielder celebrated the learning experience with the coaching staff.

I learn a lot from Abel’s staff, it’s a team that helps us a lot not only on the field, but off it as well. I’m very happy with the opportunities I’ve been getting in the first team. I hope to deliver when the chance comes in a game, to help in the best way possible. I was very well received here, just like last year. The new players who are arriving have been welcomed. It’s a very good and united group to work with. That makes the difference.

Larson also commented on his characteristics on the field and the origin of his name, a tribute to former Swedish striker Henrik Larsson.

I’m a number 8 who can mark in the phases of the game when needed. Playing out from the back, building up, low, medium, and high blocks. I have this versatility in midfield. As for my name, my father has always liked football, so my name is Larson and my brother’s name is Thierry. Our names are inspired by former players.

Regarding the debut against Portuguesa, the player guaranteed an offensive stance from Verdão:

Regardless of who plays, we’re going for the three points, that’s a fact. Like I said: it’s a very united group, so no matter who plays, they’ll get the job done. We know it’s a tough game, a match where the opponent will want to impose themselves at home. But we are Palmeiras, so we’ll impose ourselves in the best way and try to win the game.

Larson is part of the list of 35 players developed in Palmeiras’ youth academy who have been promoted to the first team since coach Abel Ferreira arrived, alongside names like Endrick, Estêvão, Vanderlan, Fabinho, Jhon Jhon, Kevin, Luis Guilherme, among others.