Football Season Guide

A tremendous season in 2021-22 for Gil Vicente. ‘Galos’ had their best performance ever, and by a mile, finishing in 5th and clinching a first time ever qualification for Europa League. Samuel Lino and Fran Navarro made an amazing duo in attack, but the strongest feature was the midfield trio, with Pedrinho having the year of his life, well supported by Kanya and Carvalho. It will be very difficult for ‘Galos’ to repeat last season, especially since the mind of that spectacular team is gone. Coach Ricardo Soares left. His replacement Ivo Vieira is an excellent gaffer, but it will be hard to emulate Soares’ spirited style and the clear bond he had with the players. In goal, Kritciuk is back after leaving in the beginning of last season. It won’t be easy to challenge the very reliable Ziga Frelih, but the Russian has a higher status and looks to start ahead in the race. Zé Carlos was a revelation last season, and fans will be sad to see him leave. 19-years old Danilo Veiga comes from lower division and Gil will hope for history to be repeated. On the left, Lucas Barros is a good addition, but Henrique Gomes should be the main man to replace Talocha. Good news that Rúben Fernandes and Lucas Cunha will repeat last season’s back duo. In midfield, Pedrinho is a massive loss, after an incredible season. However, Pedro Tiba is a very similar type of player, very intense and with a good pass on him. Is he as good as he was when he left the country 5 years ago? Vítor Carvalho and Kanya are a guarantee of superior quality in the sector. Bueno and Aburjania are very reliable options for the season. In attack, the star winger Samuel Lino famously left to join big team Atletico Madrid, but the team quite surprisingly managed to keep Fran Navarro, who is expected to keep scoring a lot. Alipour and Kevin Medina are very good additions for attack.