«I’m embarrassed when they ask me in Portugal if I want to stay here»
Abel Ferreira started a press conference after Palmeiras’ victory at Santos ground by talking about Marília Mendonça, a Brazilian singer who died following a plane crash and whom the Portuguese coach compares to Ayorton Senna.
«I want to express my feelings to the entire family of Marília Mendonça. Yesterday I followed the greatness of a woman and I think that, in fact, Brazil has many examples to change sports culture. The way she faced life reminds me a lot of Ayrton Senna, who is an example for all Brazilians and for me. Senna was a reference for me in the sport, not only for winning, he didn’t like to lose, but he respected his opponents when he lost. »
From here, Abel went on to make a fierce criticism of Brazilian football. The Portuguese never said it, but everyone associated that he was referring to the sad events of the last week, particularly the violence in the Internacional-Grémio.
“I have to say this: Brazilian football needs to change sports culture. You have to know how to win and know how to lose. People don’t like me to tell the truth, but this is a football game. If we want to change the culture of Brazil, I have to improve, the press has to improve, the players’ mentality has to improve, clubs and managers have to improve. Behaviors generate behavior. I get embarrassed when I see some images and when people from Portugal ask me if I want to continue in this football », he said.
«The football here has a lot of quality, very quality players, it has players in the biggest leagues. People have to realize that Brazil is the country of football or football players. But we have to make a reflection. This goes through sports culture. Starting with me, of course. We have to improve our behaviors. If I sow hatred and violence, what do I hope for on the other side? Love, affection and respect for the opponent? No. We have to know how to win and lose. I like to learn, look at my mistakes and evolve, even if sometimes they fall on me. Everyone has a very big responsibility to see what message they want to pass on Brazilian football. »