In four games played, the new coach of the lions beat Amarante (6-0), in the Portuguese Cup, and won Arsenal (5-1), in the Champions league, and Santa Clara (1-0) and Moreirense. (2 to 1), in the Betclic Series.
Tonel, who is 44 years old and played for Sport between 2005/06 and 2009/10, praised the qualities of Ruben amorim, but explained that the coach also had “hot feet”, which was not the case with João Pereira.
“There are things in football that cannot be explained. Ruben Amorim is extremely competent – it is indeed no coincidence that United came to get him – and his quality is not in question, but the happiness that Amorim had at João Pereira was only the as much. He was a coach,as we say,hot on his feet”,he emphasized.
With the setback against moreirense, the Greens and Whites are already level on total wins [duas] which they suffered in the championship last season, in which they won the title.
“A very difficult situation has been created and all the results say it. If João Pereira continues on this negative path it will be difficult for him to continue in office, but, as always, in football the dictating results”, explained Tonel, who was a teammate of the current coach at the Lions.
The former Portugal international also considered Ruben Amorim to be a “basic piece” in Sporting’s overall structure,but stressed that the Lions where “already great before Amorim and will continue to be great”.
“joão Pereira started as a coach at the club,he was in training and then in the B team,and now he is in the main team,which is a big leap”,said Tonel,who coached at FC Porto and Sporting de Espinho ,after still playing in clubs such as Académica,Marítimo,Beira-mar. Feirense, Belenenses or the Croats from dinamo Zagreb.
How can joão Pereira build a strong team mentality to ensure success at Sporting after a transitional phase?
Interview: Navigating Change in Football – Insights from former Defender Tonel
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Tonel, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent developments at Sporting Clube de Portugal. With the departure of Ruben Amorim and the promotion of João Pereira as head coach, what are your observations about the challenges the team is currently facing?
Tonel: Thank you for having me. Yes, as I mentioned previously, the departure of Ruben Amorim certainly left a meaningful legacy. He did a remarkable job at Sporting, and I anticipated that his exit would create turbulence for the team. A new coach inevitably brings changes, and João Pereira, coming from the B team, faces a steep learning curve.
TNE: Speaking of João Pereira, how do you assess his promotion to the first team? Do you think he is equipped to handle this level of pressure?
Tonel: It’s a big leap for anyone, especially someone like João, who has climbed through the ranks from training, to B team, and now to the first team. While he has potential, he lacks the experience that comes with handling a team at this level.The initial results may not reflect it, but it’s crucial for him to find his footing quickly.
TNE: So far, João has experienced mixed results. What do you think he needs to focus on to turn the tide for sporting?
Tonel: Results are the final judgment in football. João has strengths, but he needs to establish a clear tactical identity and foster confidence within the squad.Building a strong team mentality and adapting to the pressures of top-flight football is essential. The players must rally around him to overcome challenges.
TNE: You mentioned the ‘heavy legacy’ left by Amorim.What specific aspects of his tenure do you think are most challenging for Pereira to replicate?
Tonel: Ruben Amorim’s effectiveness came from his unique ability to connect with the players—not just tactically but on a personal level. He had “hot feet,” meaning he was very much in tune with the game and the team’s dynamics. João must cultivate that same level of happiness and energy if he wants to inspire the players and make an impact.
TNE: Considering the recent setbacks, how critical do you think the upcoming matches are for JoãoS career at Sporting?
Tonel: The next few matches are crucial. They dictate not just immediate results but also his future with the club. If he continues on a negative path, it could jeopardize his position. Though, it’s crucial to remember that every coach faces tough situations; it’s about how you respond to these challenges that defines your success.
TNE: Lastly, what message would you convey to fans regarding this transition phase in Sporting’s history?
Tonel: To the fans, I would say patience is key.Every team goes through tough phases, and while the club has a glorious history, it is indeed critically important to support the new coach and players as they find their rhythm. The foundation laid by amorim was significant, but Sporting has always been great, and I believe it will come back strong.
TNE: Thank you, Tonel, for your valuable insights. It will be interesting to see how João Pereira navigates this pivotal moment in his coaching career.
Tonel: Thank you for having me! I’m looking forward to seeing how it all unfolds.
