Football Season Guide

A slightly disappointing season, once again, for 'Insulares. Marítimo was still unable to get back at pushing for a place near the European places. Inconsistency was again the norm, and not even the traditional home advantage was felt in 2019. Club will try to restore the prestige they had not so long ago in the country, and they did a relatively big effort in the market, this summer, to improve the team. The most notable change will be in the dugout, where the conservative Lito Vidigal will be leading the team, replacing José Gomes. One should expect a much more pragmatic Marítimo, this time, especially careful in defense. Vidigal is an expert in saving teams from relegation, but Marítimo will expect more from him. Xadas, as expected, returned to his parent club, while Bebeto, Rúben Ferreira and Vukovic didn't renew contract. Those were the only losses for the new season. On the way in, there are many new faces, but none is a recognizable game changer. Caio Secco is an excellent keeper, but was it really necessary to bring a competitor for Amir and Charles? Winck, Hermes and Jean will try to relaunch a career that has stalled a few seasons ago. Rafik and Fumu arrive from France with decent reputation preceding them. Macedo is the safest bet of all, definitely bringing quality to the wings. Marítimo should rely mostly on the stars coming from previous seasons. Nanu is expected to have a confirmation season before signing with a bigger club; Renê should continue forming a strong partnership with team's spiritual leader Zainadine. Correa and Pinho have been solid references in attack but they are yet to unleash all the potential they unquestionably possess. Lito Vidigal is hardly the ideal coach for that, though.