Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s hard to find peace of mind and energy to talk about football, “the most important of the unimportant things in life”, as once said Arrigo Sacchi. But the return of football in Brazil is a fact, whether it’s a good idea or not (it isn’t). So let’s talk about Palmeiras and try to clear our heads a little.
New calendar
The São Paulo state Championship needs six more dates to crown its champion. São Paulo’s governor, João Doria, authorized the federation to resume games on July 22nd without supporters and in cities that are in the ‘yellow stage’ of the pandemic. Palmeiras’ first challenge is nothing less than a Derby against Corinthians.
The National Championship – the Brasileirão – is scheduled to begin on August 8th. The tournament will last until the end of February 2021. Palmeiras debut against Vasco da Gama at the Allianz Parque, probably with empty stands.
Rony punished by FIFA
Rony, signed as a candidate to replace Dudu, is facing problems due to issues related to his transfer from Japan to Athletico Paranaense in 2018. FIFA has suspended the player for four months, but his lawyers have guaranteed they will appeal in the next few days, making Rony available to coach Luxemburgo until the final ruling in the courts (which could take up to a year or more).
Dudu
Dudu’s transfer to Al Duhail turned into a strange, silent, dragged-out novela. Last Wednesday, the Little Giant finally boarded a plane and is expected to sign a one-year agreement any of these days. Palmeiras’ most important player of the decade left without much commotion, the Club hardly touching upon the issue. There are twists to the story – both on and in particular off the pitch – but we’ll leave it at that and simply express all our gratitude for a players that always honoured our colours and gave it everything he had, every time, he set foot on the pitch. Best of luck, Dudu; let’s see what the future holds for you!
Transfers rumours round-up
# Scarpa is on the radar of European teams.
# Raphael Veiga has received a proposal from Ah Ahli.
# Victor Luís is returning to Botafogo on a loan deal.
# Yan’s loan to Sport was interrupted and he’s heading for Moreirense (Portugal).
# Hulk has announced he’s not staying in China next year; if he chooses to return to Brazil, the Allianz Parque is a strong candidate for him to call home.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
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by Augusto Anteghini Oazi & Kristian Bengtson
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 