How Hugo Souza became Corinthians’ unexpected leader | OneFootball

According to Globo, Hugo Souza's story at Corinthians marks a significant transformation in less than a year since his arrival. When the 26-year-old goalkeeper came to the club, opinions were split—he was not even the initial target. Corinthians, in the midst of uncertainty after losing Cássio and with Carlos Miguel’s sudden switch to Nottingham Forest, looked set to hand the number one shirt to Santos, fresh from an Olympic gold with Brazil. Instead, it was executive Fabinho Soldado, familiar with Hugo from his Flamengo days, who pushed through the signing, convinced the keeper had what it took to resolve the side’s goalkeeping dilemma.

At that moment, Hugo Souza was just emerging from a difficult spell with Chaves in Portugal, a team that had suffered relegation. The decision raised eyebrows across the club’s hierarchy, but Soldado persisted, defending his view to the scouting department and board. Corinthians paid Flamengo a loan clause of 800,000 euros—a calculated gamble, but modest by current market standards.

Hugo's impact was immediate. Within his first year, he emerged not only as a reliable presence between the posts, but also as an unexpected leader at CT Joaquim Grava. With the departures of established figures like Paulinho and Cássio, Corinthians were lacking vocal leadership. Hugo stepped into the void, forming a new axis of influence alongside veterans like Romero. His leadership credentials were on display before the Brasileirão match against Flamengo—he expressed his wish to captain the side against his former club, a moment which coach Ramón Díaz granted. Hugo wore the armband after Fagner's substitution, even while Romero was still on the field, a clear sign of the respect he had quickly earned.

On the pitch, Hugo delivered consistently. He played a critical role in Corinthians' campaign to escape the Brasileirão relegation zone, ultimately driving them to a Copa Libertadores qualifying position. His standout moment came in the Paulistão final, where his saves were instrumental in ending a six-year title drought for Corinthians in men’s professional football. Club insiders now describe his acquisition as “one of Fabinho Soldado’s great successes” as executive director.

Hugo Souza’s performances have resonated beyond the club, drawing national attention and earning him a place on Carlo Ancelotti’s first call-up list for the Brazilian national team. His journey at Corinthians, from a contentious signing to a locker-room leader and hero in vital fixtures, stands as a mark of both opportunity and transformation—for player and club alike.

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