The hectic soccer calendar has become a constant source of contention. Managers from all across the globe have cited their disagreements and discontent. While Liverpool FC’s Jurgen Klopp has been a thoughtful critic of Europe’s scheduling, his concerns might seem like child’s play to Palmeiras boss Abel Ferreira. The Portuguese manager did not hold back when addressing the issue of a tightly packed fixture schedule, firing a not-so-subtle shot at Klopp’s disapproval.
Previously, Jurgen Klopp labeled the Premier League schedule as a ‘joke’ and voiced his concerns for his players’ recovery. However, as Ferreira compared the Brazilian calendar, he aimed at Klopp’s frustrations, taking a slight dig. Let’s delve deeper.
A Brazilian reality check for Jurgen Klopp?
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Ferreira addressed the grueling schedule his team endures in the Brazilian league. While Jurgen Klopp complained about the 55-game schedule for Liverpool, Palmeiras boss believes the German manager might be looking through a tinted glass. After Palmeiras’ recent 2-1 win over Santos, the tactician pointed out that his team routinely plays 70 games annually. He highlighted the vastly distinct realities faced by the clubs in Europe and South America.
“If Klopp complains about playing 55 games a year, Palmeiras plays 70. What’s more, a manager who’s been at the club for nine years, has nine finals, and seven titles, and if he doesn’t win here, he knows what it’s like. I’m not going to teach you what Brazilian soccer is all about, how soccer is dealt with, as if the players were machines, as if they didn’t have teams with the desire to win and more financial resources. We intend to prepare the team for another final, but first, we have the game with Bragantino,” Ferreira told Record.
Next Sunday, Palmeiras face Sao Paulo in the final of the Brazilian Super Cup. Until then, they will play Red Bull Bragantino on Wednesday (31st Jan), while Sao Paulo will face Corinthians on Tuesday (30th Jan). It will give the Sao Paulo squad an extra day to recover before the final. Palmeiras’ boss also criticized the decision to put the matches on different days.
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As Palmeiras prepares for another final, the clash of philosophies and managerial perspectives seems inevitable. Will Jurgen Klopp take a page from Ferreira’s book and adapt to the challenge of tight scheduling, or will Ferreira find common ground with Liverpool’s boss? The answers will only unfold on the pitch. But for now, the stage is set for a discussion on ‘how to deal with football.’
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