Football Season Guide

After finishing 8th in 2023/24 Famalicao did a bit better last season and their final position was 7th. Had another very solid year W12 D11 L11. However, the inability to play well on the road – 9 of their 11 defeats were away from home – hampered them in their push towards the European places. Changed managers mid-season too. Evangelista was sacked in early December, Famalicao were 8th when this happened, and Hugo Oliveira took over. He didn’t improve the displays or results much but for now is staying in charge. Oliveira knows that to match the high ambitions of the owners he must turn Famalicao in serious contenders for the top 5 positions. A trio of new Brazilians have strengthened the ranks. Also, after impressive loan spells last season both Realpe (CB) and Sorriso (RW) were bought outright. They are expected to form the backbone of the defensive and attacking lines going forward. Losing solid defenders Mihaj and Calegari this summer could hurt the team. Garcia and Santana were signed to replace them. They are young and unproven players but at least the manager thinks they can become regular starters. Young CM De Amorim (20) was the breakthrough star from last season. He is likely to become key figure in midfield if he is not poached by a bigger team before the end of the transfer window. Oliveira liked to operate with a lone striker in away matches last term. He was criticised for that. Famalicao did much better at home when using 2 up front. Going forward the manager might be bold enough to trust duo of strikers on the road too.