Grêmio place high hopes on World Cup pause, says vice-president Antônio Dutra Júnior | OneFootball

After defeat to Flamengo at the Arena in round 15 of the Brasileirão, which dropped Grêmio into the relegation zone, vice-president of football Antônio Dutra Júnior said the club is placing high expectations on the World Cup pause.

He explained the squad will undergo a pre-season during the tournament days, though he still expects improvement in the remaining fixtures before the break. According to Globo.com, the plan is to return in the second half of the year with a more qualified side.

Dutra described internal pressure after poor results, particularly in the league. He said there is no set deadline for improvement, with the board monitoring daily work and how players respond to the coaches. He pointed to signs of evolution, a change of system, deep tweaks to the style and a solid defence, aiming to collect the points the team needs in the Brasileirão.

He added that players, coaching staff, directors and employees all hold themselves accountable and strive to do their best.

Before the pause, Grêmio face a run of six matches across three competitions. After the Corinthians game in the Brasileirão, players and staff will have 15 days off. On their return, the team will play friendlies before competitive action resumes.

Source: Globo.com