Football Season Guide

Cruzeiro had a relatively disappointing season in 2023, being involved in relegation contention until later stages of the season. It was their first season at top flight after three painful years at Série B, so there may have been some low expectations on 'Raposa's' performance in 2023. Raposa has been having a decent run in State Championship, this year, having reached the finals of competition, However, 'Raposa' have lost it to their strongest rivals, proving that Atlético is currently a superior team. Cruzeiro collected 7 wins, 4 draws and just 2 defeats so far in current year. Cruzeiro appointed the Argentinean Nicolás Larcamón, who is coming from a long (and successful) run in the demanding Mexican League. Larcamón looks like he is ready to implement a double formation (4-2-3-1/5-2-3) depending on the opponent, with the two Lucas (Silva and Romero) running the midfield. Lucas Romero is back to the team to assume a major role in midfield; Rafa Silva is also an important return, but for the wings; Zé Ivaldo and Lucas Villalba will be important additions for the defense; striker Dinanno is an unknown name in Brazil, but he has been having a promising start, with 5 goals scored in Campeonato Mineiro, already. Despite some important names from last year leaving (most notably the wingers Bruno Rodrigues and Wesley), the team don't seem weaker than last season, as all departures were conveniently covered with new signings. There is, however, some lack of a major talent in midfield and there are some areas on the squad that look a bit short in options. Gabriel Veron signed in as a major name for 2024 coming from Portugal, but he is still recovering from a severe injury.