Rodriguinho justifies São Paulo’s faith at MorumBIS | OneFootball

Rodriguinho took center stage for São Paulo in their 2-1 victory over Athletico Paranaense in the Copa do Brasil round of 16 first leg at MorumBIS, providing the crucial assist for Ferreirinha’s goal and reinforcing long-held expectations around his talent, according to Arquibancada Tricolor.

The attacking midfielder, a product of the club’s famed Cotia academy, was instrumental in the attacking phase, setting up the goal that handed São Paulo a narrow advantage going into the second leg in Curitiba. His assuredness on the ball and decisive contribution echoed early predictions from former São Paulo coach Rogério Ceni, who believed strongly in Rodriguinho’s potential. Back in 2022, while still managing the club, Ceni stated, “He is talented, is being developed, will play for São Paulo, listen to what I’m saying,” and added, “Good player, good kid, has a future at São Paulo. I believe he should get more opportunities, has a brilliant future.”

Three years on, Ceni’s confidence appears increasingly justified. Rodriguinho’s impact in high-stakes moments is giving São Paulo valuable options during a congested fixture period, as the squad contends with injuries and suspensions across the pitch. His rise is emblematic of the club’s continued faith in its youth system to deliver when the stakes are high.

As São Paulo prepare for the return leg in Paraná, the hope is that Rodriguinho will remain influential in the push for a place in the Copa do Brasil quarterfinals. His growing role not only justifies the early trust placed in him but also highlights the ongoing synergy between academy development and first-team needs at MorumBIS.

(Sources: Arquibancada Tricolor)

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