Unexpected great season for Santos. There was some frustration in the end but only because the team created high expectations out of nothing during most of the season.
At first glance, no one could imagine this squad could be title contenders. With their biggest star youngster Rodrygo set to leave after 6 rounds, the squad was made out of players used to be on 2nd plan everywhere they played.
However, the brilliancy of coach Sampaoli turned some of those solid rocks into stars and transformed the team into one of the most exciting South American teams of recent times.
Constantly shifting their formations, lineups always unpredictable even for the players, presenting some bold approaches, Santos was a joy to watch most of the time, even if there were some setbacks on the way.
The period between 14th and 21st rounds was awful and made Peixe give up on the title. With only 1 victory in 8 rounds it seemed that Santos was about to collapse, but Sampaoli managed to turn things around and bring back the joyful yet competitive football of the first rounds.
Besides Sampaoli, there were some important players, but rare was the case where someone maintained a good level during the season. Jean Mota had a dream start of season only to fade away to oblivion. Pituca’s influence on the first half was matched by Sanchez on the second.
Everson dethroned the club’s charismatic goalkeeper Vanderlei and together with Lucas Veríssimo and Gustavo Henrique formed the team’s solid backbone. Sasha was always on the mood for goals and Soteldo was a constant troublemaker.
Unfortunately for the fans, Sampaoli was already confirmed to leave the club. It’s hard to imagine this squad fighting for top places without the eccentric Argentinean on board.
