Football Season Guide

Corinthians’ 2025 season was a campaign of contrasts. In Série A they finished 7th, always well outside the title race. On the other hand, they have triumphed in the Brazilian Cup, lifting the trophy with a 2–1 win over Vasco da Gama. Internationally, Corinthians were eliminated early from continental competition, failing to reach the Copa Libertadores group stage and exiting the Copa Sul-Americana at the group phase, leaving domestic cup success as the season’s high point. Goalkeeper Hugo Souza (whose performances granted him a call for the national team) and centre-half Gustavo Henrique were the main players for Timão, in 2025. Attackers Depay and Yuri Alberto are worth mentioning, but they weren't always at their best level. Dorival Júnior arrived at 'Timão', last season, after a spell as the manager of Seleção Canarinha. Dorival has had recent success under Flamengo, but wasn't particularly fantastic at Corinthians in last year, although there was undeniable improvement after his arrival. Dorival's adaptative style might good for Corinthians on the short term, but Timão will need some one more determined to get back to being a Brazilian giant, status lost in the past decade. After several months of transfer ban, and under deep financial problems, 'Timão' can only buy free players, or very cheap ones. Under these limitations, full-back Milans, veteran centre-half Gabriel Paulista and holding midfielder Matheus Pereira were brought in. All three have conditions to become relevant and the midfielder looks already an immediate option for the XI. Midfielder Alisson (São Paulo) and winger Kaio César (Al-Hilal) are about to sign in and should be mean two significant improvements for the new season.