This is why Abel Ferreira will not be fired from Palmeiras

Abel Ferreira's permanence in command of Palmeiras was confirmed even after the elimination against Corinthians , last Wednesday (6), by the Copa do Brasil. The classic played at Allianz Parque ended 2-0 for the rival, aggravating the dissatisfaction of the fans, who protested in the stands.

However, the Portuguese coach remains backed by the board, which is already considering extending his contract until the end of 2027—the year that marks the end of president Leila Pereira's second term. According to director Anderson Barros, the club believes Abel remains a key player in the current restructuring process.

Abel Ferreira, Palmeiras coach, on the sidelines (Photo: Cesar Greco/Palmeiras)

The manager actively participated in assembling the squad for the season, even postponing his vacation to be directly involved in the planning. In total, Palmeiras signed eight players and said goodbye to more than ten. The restructuring has been led by Abel, Barros, and Leila, who share the same long-term vision.

"Abel can't have unlearned. The athletes can't have unlearned. We haven't unlearned. We showed it recently and we don't want to live off of that," the director said.

Barros acknowledged that the situation is delicate, especially given the team's early exit from the Copa do Brasil, but noted that the squad is still seeking balance after the changes. "There is, indeed, a lack of harmony in this process, and we will find it. I think we are going through a transitional period," the football director added.

The club, in fact, doesn't see the current situation as a reason for drastic changes. Despite the criticism, the focus is on identifying flaws and making internal adjustments. "If you always do the same things, you'll always get the same results. We have to be aware and clear about everything we're doing," Barros explained.

Meanwhile, Aníbal Moreno's red card in the Derby also caused a strong reaction. The player was shown a red card in the 14th minute of the first half for headbutting José Martínez. The decision, upheld after a VAR review, was classified as "violent conduct" by the referee.

"Daronco, I suggest a review for a possible red card. The player in green headbutted his opponent in the face, okay? Out of the contest, violent conduct," announced video referee Caio Max Vieira. Soon after, Anderson Daronco confirmed the decision after seeing the footage: "For me, player number 5 headbutted, and the ball was out of play."

Abel Ferreira's team returns to the field on Sunday (10), at 6:30 pm (Brasília time), against Ceará, for the Brazilian Championship. In addition, Palmeiras continues to compete in the Copa Libertadores, facing Universitario, from Peru, in the round of 16.