Jorge Sampaoli is the new head coach of Atlético Mineiro. In his last campaigns (unlike the years he was at his peak), he’s had poor results and has always caused trouble. What led the “Galo” of Minas Gerais to hire him? Could it be… nostalgia?

Brazilian football isn’t consistent in hiring coaches. There’s no defined philosophy, which is why, for example, Santos FC has daring coaches and then conservative ones in the same year. From Diniz to Carille in a short time. Or Fluminense, when they switched (look, him again) Diniz for Mano Menezes.

Returning to Atlético: Cuca, a winner at the club, came back even when he wasn’t in a good phase. Now, the same thing is happening with Sampaoli. And what’s worse: a contract until the end of 2027! What’s the buyout clause? After all, at some point before that date, it will have to be paid. But the question is: what qualifies the Argentine coach today? His difficult-to-deal-with personality behind the scenes certainly isn’t it.

Think about it: even Fortaleza, which has been praised, struggles to get it right. They had 4 years with Vojvoda and 10 games with the unlikely Renato Paiva.

The blame for all of this must be the club’s structure. Not having a director of football who is in tune with the club’s history or tendencies, who defines a perennial work plan, is the cause. It doesn’t have to be like Barcelona’s La Masia, but something that provides a sense of direction. And, we know, few have that.

Am I the only one who believes that Sampaoli will cause trouble and won’t make it to December 2027?