Football Season Guide

The final 11th place of last season hid what was a performance that at one point seemed to be leading the Baianos into a race for a Libertadores spot. On top of a solid domestic run, Bahia had a good display in Copa Sulamericana as well. Having been knocked-out from both Nordestão and Sulamericana quite early on the year led to Enderson Moreira being sacked. Former Palmeiras and Grêmio coach Roger Machado arrived to pick up the pieces. Bahia is expected to play a possession, attractive style as Roger Machado is usually non-negotiable about his short-passing approach. However, the team has been struggling precisely on their build-up phase. One wonders if the squad is suited for the style. There was quite a massive exit of important players. The entire back-four has left, as well as Vinicius, Régis, Edigar Junio and, most notably, the exciting attacking midfielder Zé Rafael, who joined the champions Palmeiras. Nevertheless, there is still enough talent on the side. The board brought some interesting players, namely the promising kids Shaylon and Artur, both on loan from bigger teams. Full-back Moisés and midfielder Douglas have had a big impact already, as well. The spotlight will however be elsewhere. The 18-years old highly promising midfielder Ramires appeared out of nothing in the middle of last season and is already one of the most interesting talents on the country.