Muller makes a comparison between Crespo and Zubeldía at São Paulo

São Paulo is undergoing a period of transition, marked by the arrival of Hernán Crespo as coach. Since taking over, the Argentine coach has managed to turn things around in the Brazilian Championship, achieving five wins, one draw, and suffering only one loss. This performance has put the Tricolor in a more comfortable position in the table, away from the relegation zone and closer to more competitive positions.

In an analysis on the "Mesa Redonda" program, Muller, a club legend, highlighted significant differences between Crespo and former coach Luis Zubeldía. He noted that the new coach's communication skills have made a difference in the team's environment. Players who had previously been out of action, such as Marcos Antônio and Luciano, have returned to regular play, gaining confidence and contributing to the team's recovery.

Zubeldía in São Paulo (Photo: Disclosure/São Paulo)

"He talks to the player. Marcos Antônio didn't play with Zubeldía and now he's a starter," said Muller, reinforcing that this close relationship with the squad is crucial to recovering important players. The former striker also pointed out that São Paulo is only not in fifth place in the table due to Botafogo 's recent victory, but that the leap in performance is already noticeable.

Meanwhile, more good news has arrived for Tricolor fans. Jonathan Calleri, one of the team's key players, is in an advanced stage of recovery from a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in his left knee, suffered in April against Botafogo. The striker returned to training on the pitch this Monday (August 11), running for the first time since surgery on April 23.

The recovery process, typically estimated at six to nine months, could be shortened if progress continues positively. The number 9 is expected to be available in the coming weeks, reinforcing the team in the Copa Libertadores, where São Paulo faces Atlético Nacional this Tuesday at 9:30 pm (Brasília time) in Medellín for the first leg of the round of 16.

In addition to counting on the gradual return of its top scorer, the club remains attentive to the market, with interest in players like Estudiantes' Cristian Medina. Crespo's management, in fact, has already been publicly praised by Muller, who sees the Argentine as having a more approachable approach to the players and the potential to enhance collective performance.

The rematch with Atlético Nacional will be crucial for São Paulo's hopes in the continental competition. The return leg, scheduled for Monday (August 19) at Morumbi Stadium, should be a favorable atmosphere, especially if the team achieves a good result in Colombia.