New manager’s challenges: 5 key issues for Diniz’s successor at Vasco | OneFootball

Vasco takes the field this Thursday (26) against Santos at Vila Belmiro, under the interim command of Bruno Lazaroni, but the management's focus is already on the challenges the next coach will face. With the dismissal of Fernando Diniz, the new leader will inherit a scenario of immediate pressure for results and tactical gaps that were exposed at the start of the 2026 season.

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Standings, aerial ball ghost, and shaken confidence

The biggest short-term obstacle is undoubtedly the standings. Vasco has not yet won in the Brazilian Championship and risks finishing the round at the bottom if they lose in Santos. Additionally, the disadvantage in the semifinals of the Carioca Championship against Fluminense requires a quick response to avoid ending the first semester without achieving the goals.

One of the most critical points to address is the defensive system, specifically set-pieces. Of the nine goals conceded by Vasco in the 11 matches this year, seven came from aerial plays — an alarming rate of 77%. Recovering the solidity of team pillars like Cuesta, Lucas Piton, and Paulo Henrique, who have shown a drop in technical performance, will be vital to stop this vulnerability.

The psychological aspect is also a concern. Players who form the backbone, like midfielder Nuno Moreira, have felt the weight of the negative streak. The new coach will need to conduct group management work to restore confidence to these athletes while trying to make the attack efficient, which has created opportunities but failed in finishing, as seen in the setbacks against Bahia and Volta Redonda.

Nuno Moreira is going through a tough time at Colina – Photo: Matheus Lima/Vasco

Adaptation of reinforcements and Diniz's legacy

Another challenge will be the definitive integration of the six reinforcements hired in the last window. As many arrived with the direct approval of Fernando Diniz, the successor will have to find new roles for names like Brenner, who was brought in to lead the attack but has been booed by the fans. The playing time of players like Marino Hinestroza and the debut of Cuiabano are also on the priority list.

While the name of Artur Jorge remains the favorite of the leadership led by Pedrinho, interim Bruno Lazaroni is expected to make tactical changes against Santos. The expectation is for a more reactive Vasco at Vila Belmiro, exploiting the speed of Andrés Gómez and Hinestroza in counterattacks. This transition period will be crucial for the new coach to receive a minimally organized squad ready for the Brasileirão marathon.

Cuiabano needs to play – Photo: Matheus Lima/Vasco

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