Verdão was coming from an immaculate second half of 2018 and the start of this season seemed to present 2019 as a smooth continuation of an imperial run from Scolari’s men, reaching a total of 32 consecutive league games without losing.
However, Palmeiras seemed affected by the recent success of rivals Flamengo, winning without compromising an attractive style, and somehow Verdão started to collapse. A defeat to Ceará on round 11 initiated a winless period that ended in a clear defeat to Fla and subsequent sacking of Scolari.
Mano Menezes was called in but he didn’t change the team’s style and the team followed a competent yet sparkless rout, unable to match Flamengo’s impeccable run. Curiously, another defeat to Flamengo, close to the end, caused Mano’s sacking just like with Scolari.
Dudu was once again the absolute standout of the season; new signing Luiz Adriano needs to improve physical condition to show his obvious above-average quality; Felipe Melo had more discipline problems than good performances; Weverton saved the team multiple times.
The squad is obviously good and is unmatched in terms of depth. However, there’s a clear need to get a handful of unquestionable quality players for the starting XI to match Dudu and Luiz Adriano. That and the advanced age of some once key players should lead to a significant reform of the squad.
The 17-years old Gabriel Veron will be on his own a great reason to follow Brazilian football next season.
