Football Season Guide

Cruzeiro’s 2025 season blended competitive promise with clear frustrations. In Série A the club finished 3rd, earning a direct place in the 2026 Copa Libertadores after a consistent campaign through the year. Their Copa do Brasil run ended in semifinals, exiting to Corinthians on penalties after a strong run. Cruzeiro’s Sul-Americana campaign was disappointing, with elimination at the group stage. Kaio Jorge was the main player, reaching the top of goalscoring list in the league, and earning a call for Seleção, but even him had a rough period, showcasing the team's limitations. Cruzeiro had a strong eleven, but lack depth in the squad. Portuguese Leonardo Jardim was one of the biggest causes of last season's good performance, however, the club's elimination from Brazilian Cup (semi-finals; penalties) caused his departure. New man in charge is former National manager and Flamengo's gaffer Tite, whose skills and struggle for adaptation to modern ideas make him a questionable option to replace the highly competent Jardim. Midfielder Gerson is the big new name for 2026. The former Flamengo star should add up to the strong quality of attacking midfield. Cunha in goal and Chico da Costa and Neiser in attack should be reserves. Big name but rarely a first team option, Gabigol is the most renowned departure. All other players leaving were rarely options in 2025. Gerson will team up with Matheus Pereira and Matheus Henrique in midfield to support the star striker Kaio Jorge, who has been linked with a move, but the club's effort to keep him and reject big bids shows ambition for the season.