The Rise of Corinthians: An Interview with President Augusto Melo
In an engaging interview on the Zona Mista program, President Augusto Melo of Corinthians shared his insights on the club's tumultuous year, accomplishments, and plans for future growth. The discussion, rich with details about the club's internal management and the dynamics of Brazilian football, highlighted Melo's commitment to restoring Corinthians’ stature in both domestic and international competitions.
The conversation began with Melo acknowledging the challenging year his team faced, marked by early struggles including a thin roster. Starting out with an inadequate lineup, the club saw a rapid turnaround: by year’s end, Corinthians had secured a spot in the Libertadores and reached the semi-finals of the Copa do Brasil. “We began with a limited squad, but through hard work, we turned things around,” said Melo. He stated that this success was due to the strategic management introduced after he took over.
One of the core themes Melo emphasized was the importance of professionalizing the club's management. “You need people who are up-to-date and knowledgeable about the market,” he stated, recognizing that the club lacked this expertise previously. Under his leadership, the club hired executives from various sectors to fortify its operational and financial capabilities.
Melo described how Corinthians transitioned from having no resources and credibility to establishing partnerships and increasing revenues—ultimately creating a financial structure of around 1.8 billion reais. This growth paved the way for bringing in notable players and enhancing the overall management quality, with a focus on bringing in athletes who fit the club's culture.
Melo did not shy away from discussing past missteps, particularly regarding early recruitment and the initial management team he trusted. “I made errors in judgment about the people I assigned,” he admitted. However, he learned quickly from these mistakes, stating he would now be directly accountable for future decisions. “From that point, every decision would be mine,” he said, inspiring confidence in the direction he had taken the club.
This new approach allowed the team to focus on hiring talent that was not only skilled but committed to the ethos of Corinthians. Melo noted that the players brought in were engaged and dedicated, as seen in their performances throughout the season.
Speaking about engagement with fans, Melo highlighted the significant support the club received during a recent protest against an attempted impeachment of his presidency. The players’ solidarity with the fans was touching for Melo, who acknowledged the emotional weight those moments carried. “It was unprecedented for me to witness that level of unity,” he reflected.
The president stressed the importance of maintaining transparent communication with both fans and players. He believes this approach has cultivated a newfound trust, creating positive energy both on and off the field.
As the conversation shifted to future ambitions, Melo was optimistic. His plans include not only competing in national leagues but also making a significant impact in the Libertadores. This ambition hinges on maintaining a tight-knit and competitive squad.
Melo discussed the importance of a robust recruitment strategy for future seasons, focusing on identifying key positions that needed strength. He reiterated the club’s commitment to financial stability and intentional spending, with the understanding that every investment needs to align with the broader goals of the team.
Ultimately, President Augusto Melo presented a clear vision for Corinthians. From reversing a lean financial structure to fostering a passionate and competitive culture, his leadership has laid the groundwork for what he believes will be a bright future. As he stated confidently, “Corinthians will return to being a powerhouse, making its mark in Brazil and beyond."
With the combination of a devoted fan base, dedicated management, and a strong commitment to professional development, Corinthians is poised for a resurgence that could bring home multiple championships in the coming years. The challenges are many, but under Melo’s leadership, the club now possesses the resilience and ambition to face them head-on.
Part 1/7:
The Rise of Corinthians: An Interview with President Augusto Melo
In an engaging interview on the Zona Mista program, President Augusto Melo of Corinthians shared his insights on the club's tumultuous year, accomplishments, and plans for future growth. The discussion, rich with details about the club's internal management and the dynamics of Brazilian football, highlighted Melo's commitment to restoring Corinthians’ stature in both domestic and international competitions.
A Year of Highs and Lows
Part 2/7:
The conversation began with Melo acknowledging the challenging year his team faced, marked by early struggles including a thin roster. Starting out with an inadequate lineup, the club saw a rapid turnaround: by year’s end, Corinthians had secured a spot in the Libertadores and reached the semi-finals of the Copa do Brasil. “We began with a limited squad, but through hard work, we turned things around,” said Melo. He stated that this success was due to the strategic management introduced after he took over.
Professionalizing the Club
Part 3/7:
One of the core themes Melo emphasized was the importance of professionalizing the club's management. “You need people who are up-to-date and knowledgeable about the market,” he stated, recognizing that the club lacked this expertise previously. Under his leadership, the club hired executives from various sectors to fortify its operational and financial capabilities.
Melo described how Corinthians transitioned from having no resources and credibility to establishing partnerships and increasing revenues—ultimately creating a financial structure of around 1.8 billion reais. This growth paved the way for bringing in notable players and enhancing the overall management quality, with a focus on bringing in athletes who fit the club's culture.
Reflection on Management Decisions
Part 4/7:
Melo did not shy away from discussing past missteps, particularly regarding early recruitment and the initial management team he trusted. “I made errors in judgment about the people I assigned,” he admitted. However, he learned quickly from these mistakes, stating he would now be directly accountable for future decisions. “From that point, every decision would be mine,” he said, inspiring confidence in the direction he had taken the club.
This new approach allowed the team to focus on hiring talent that was not only skilled but committed to the ethos of Corinthians. Melo noted that the players brought in were engaged and dedicated, as seen in their performances throughout the season.
Strengthening Club Culture and Fan Engagement
Part 5/7:
Speaking about engagement with fans, Melo highlighted the significant support the club received during a recent protest against an attempted impeachment of his presidency. The players’ solidarity with the fans was touching for Melo, who acknowledged the emotional weight those moments carried. “It was unprecedented for me to witness that level of unity,” he reflected.
The president stressed the importance of maintaining transparent communication with both fans and players. He believes this approach has cultivated a newfound trust, creating positive energy both on and off the field.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans
Part 6/7:
As the conversation shifted to future ambitions, Melo was optimistic. His plans include not only competing in national leagues but also making a significant impact in the Libertadores. This ambition hinges on maintaining a tight-knit and competitive squad.
Melo discussed the importance of a robust recruitment strategy for future seasons, focusing on identifying key positions that needed strength. He reiterated the club’s commitment to financial stability and intentional spending, with the understanding that every investment needs to align with the broader goals of the team.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
Part 7/7:
Ultimately, President Augusto Melo presented a clear vision for Corinthians. From reversing a lean financial structure to fostering a passionate and competitive culture, his leadership has laid the groundwork for what he believes will be a bright future. As he stated confidently, “Corinthians will return to being a powerhouse, making its mark in Brazil and beyond."
With the combination of a devoted fan base, dedicated management, and a strong commitment to professional development, Corinthians is poised for a resurgence that could bring home multiple championships in the coming years. The challenges are many, but under Melo’s leadership, the club now possesses the resilience and ambition to face them head-on.