With a reformulation launched after the successes of Libertadores and Brazilirão, Botafogo lives a new phase under the command of Davide Ancelotti. Announced as a coach about ten days ago, the Italian made his debut on the edge of the field in a tie without goals with Vitória, Wednesday (16), at the Nilton Santos stadium. Despite the result, the game marked the beginning of the tactical changes and cast adjustments promoted by the new commander.
One of Ancelotti’s main outbreaks is the use of Jefferson Savarino. Venezuelan, a highlight of the 2024 campaign, was repositioned and obtained a new function. According to the coach, Shirt 10 should act with freedom in the central sector, in collaboration with Álvaro Montoro and Alex Telles on the left side. During the post-match press conference, Ancelotti explained his decision: “Savarino can play released, like 10. He likes to find the position. I ask him to play a little left because he could have a good association with Álvaro and Alex. I see Savarino like an offensive stocking and not as a tip.”
Savarino in Botafogo action (photo: disclosure/botofogo)
Previously used more open by Renato Paiva, Savarino suffered from performance fluctuations. Now, the proposal of the new coach is to improve the athlete’s virtues from a more centralized position, with creative and also defensive functions.
Another point faced by Ancelotti was the need to adapt the cast to Arthur Cabral’s arrival. The center forward, which replaces Igor Jesus after transfer to English football, requires a new game dynamics. “He has to help, he is an important player for the team. Even his teammates need time to play with him, because they have different features from Igor Jesus,” said the coach.
Still on the draw with Vitória, Botafogo’s offensive performances have been intensely analyzed. The Spanish newspaper brand has classified performance as an “offensive nightmare”, highlighting the 20 presentations and 62% possession of the Rio team. Also with this volume, goalkeeper Lucas Arcanjo prevented Alvinegra’s victory with decisive defenses.
“It wasn’t enough. We weren’t lucky, but we must also improve. We did enough to win today, but it can’t always be like that. Football is like this,” complained Ancelotti after the game.
The coach started his work with the additional challenge to face various changes in the cast. In addition to Arthur Cabral, they recently arrived at the Cristhian Loor Club, Kaio Fernando, Montoro and Joaquin Correa. On the other hand, the team has lost three owners: Jair, Igor Jesus and Gregore, the latter negotiated with Al-Rayyan.
Botafogo returns to Sunday’s field (20), at 16:00 (Brasilia time), to face sport, away from home, in a game valid for the 15th round of the Brazilian championship.
Source: Terra
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