Homegrown talent: The ‘Made In cotia’ Generation Takes Shape at São Paulo
Table of Contents
- 1. Homegrown talent: The ‘Made In cotia’ Generation Takes Shape at São Paulo
- 2. How much influence do you believe the “Made in Cotia” generation’s success or failure will have on future recruitment and investment in São paulo’s youth academy?
- 3. Made in Cotia: Interview with Carlos Belmonte on São Paulo’s Rising Stars
- 4. A New Era of Tricolor Talent
- 5. Beyond the trophy Room
- 6. A Legacy in the Making
- 7. Looking Ahead
The stands at the Morumbi stadium are buzzing with excitement. A new generation of São Paulo talent, the “Made In Cotia,” is making its mark. Leading the charge is Ryan Francisco, nicknamed ”The Cold,” who has already captured the hearts of fans.
But he’s not alone. Coach Luis Zubeldía, in an unconventional move, opted to give minutes to several promising youngsters in the São Paulo cup rather of taking them to Florida. “Its aimed at giving minutes to all ‘Made In Cotia’,” explained Carlos Belmonte, referencing the Argentine coach’s institutional partnership with the club’s direction.
Of the quartet - Ryan Francisco, Hugo Leonardo, Matheus Alves, and Lucas Ferreira – Hugo Leonardo sadly suffered a knee injury during pre-season and will miss the remainder of the year. The others, though, are eager to prove themselves. In a recent match against Portuguese, the team featuring several “Made In Cotia” champions from the Copinha (Brazil’s U-20 Cup), secured a victory reminiscent of thier 1985 state final triumph over the same opponent.
Ryan Francisco entered the match and scored, showcasing his clinical finishing.Lucas Ferreira got ten minutes of playing time, while matheus Alves, Maik, Igão, and Henrique Carmo waited patiently on the bench. Patryck Lanza, from a previous generation of Cotia graduates, started in goal, with veteran Rodriguinho, also a Cotia product, coming on in the 14th minute.
The influence of “Made In cotia” runs deep. Pablo Maia,Negrucci,Oscar,and Lucas,all previous graduates of the renowned youth academy,add further depth to the squad. Even Moreira and William Gomes, who are set to transfer to Porto, began their journey in Cotia.
with 14 out of 28 players at the start of the year hailing from the academy, it’s clear that the ”Made In Cotia” generation is shaping the future of São Paulo FC.
How much influence do you believe the “Made in Cotia” generation’s success or failure will have on future recruitment and investment in São paulo’s youth academy?
Made in Cotia: Interview with Carlos Belmonte on São Paulo’s Rising Stars
Carlos belmonte, a leading sports journalist specializing in São Paulo F.C., joined us to discuss the rise of the “Made in Cotia” generation, a new wave of talented youngsters emerging from the club’s renowned youth academy.
A New Era of Tricolor Talent
Archyde: Carlos, the stands at Morumbi Stadium are buzzing with excitement over this new generation of São Paulo talent. How do you see the “Made in Cotia” generation shaping the future of the club?
Carlos Belmonte: This generation represents a true return to São paulo’s DNA. The club has always been known for its academy, and these young players are carrying that tradition forward with incredible talent and passion.You see it in their performances – they’re not just promising, they’re already making an impact.
Beyond the trophy Room
Archyde: Coach zubeldía’s decision to prioritize these young players in the São Paulo Cup over a trip to Florida was a bold move. What message does that send?
Belmonte: It sends a powerful message that the club truly invests in building for the future. It shows a commitment to developing these young talents, giving them valuable experience at the professional level, and integrating them seamlessly into the senior squad.
A Legacy in the Making
Archyde: Ryan Francisco, nicknamed ”the Cold” for his clinical finishing, has already captured the hearts of fans. Are there other emerging players who have caught your eye?
Belmonte: Absolutely. Hugo Leonardo, unfortunately sidelined with an injury, demonstrated tremendous potential before his setback. Matheus Alves, Lucas Ferreira, and the others are all showing glimpses of greatness. It’s a very exciting time to be following São Paulo’s youth academy.
Looking Ahead
Archyde: Think about ten years from now. What could the “Made in Cotia” generation achieve for São Paulo F.C.?
Belmonte: **Ten years? that’s bold! But these players possess the talent and dedication to build a dynasty. Their passion for the club, combined with the experience gained in the current squad, could propel São Paulo to national and international success, reclaiming their place among the world’s elite.