Crespo returns: São Paulo look for answers at Maracanã | OneFootball

São Paulo return to Brasileirão action this Saturday with an away fixture against Flamengo at Maracanã, marking their first league outing following the break for the Super Club World Cup—and the high-profile return of Hernán Crespo to the technical area, according to Arquibancada Tricolor.

The fixture, part of the 13th round, has added narrative intrigue as Crespo resumes his second spell in charge of the club after São Paulo finalized the exit arrangements for outgoing coach Luis Zubeldía earlier this week. Crespo, who previously delivered silverware in his first tenure, steps in at a juncture where the team is seeking to stabilize results after a string of inconsistent league performances. So far this season, São Paulo have achieved two wins, six draws, and four defeats from twelve matches, tallying ten goals for and conceding fourteen, which sees them sit 14th in the current standings.

Fans traveling to Maracanã and intending to support São Paulo in the away end (South Sector B) will need to purchase tickets via the club's online portals, with sales opening Wednesday morning. Entry to the stadium will be managed exclusively through biometric identification, and supporters are encouraged to complete the necessary registration in advance to prevent delays on matchday. Ticket prices are set at R$80 (full) and R$40 (half entry).

On the training ground, São Paulo’s preparations have been marked by a convincing 6-0 win for the senior side over the club’s under-20s last Friday. Striker Dinenno led the scoring with a hat-trick, while Alisson added two and Marcos Antônio also found the net. The dominant display has been interpreted by the technical staff as a positive sign, particularly with attacking options and squad readiness under review ahead of a demanding run of fixtures.

Behind the scenes, a change in leadership was accompanied by measured comments from young right-back Moreira, currently on loan at Porto, who reflected positively on his development under Zubeldía and reaffirmed his affection for São Paulo. “There are no hard feelings. São Paulo is my home. I love São Paulo, I love the people there. Every day I get messages from fans asking me to come back,” he shared, underscoring ongoing ties between the club and its promising talent pool.

As Crespo prepares for his managerial return at Maracanã, São Paulo fans will be watching closely to see if a new chapter under familiar guidance revives the team’s fortunes in the Brazilian top flight.

(Sources: Arquibancada Tricolor)

Photo by Ricardo Moreira/Getty Images