São Paulo’s recent approach to player signings is a blend of numbers, statistics, unwavering confidence, and a touch of serendipity. This unique strategy draws its inspiration from the cinematic masterpiece “Moneyball,” known as “The Man Who Changed the Game” in Brazil, a film that graced screens in 2011.
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What is the storyline behind “Moneyball”?
This film is a portrayal of the remarkable true story of Billy Beane, the shrewd general manager of the Oakland Athletics, a renowned US baseball team. In the movie, Billy Beane, played by Brad Pitt, takes the center stage as it chronicles his triumphant journey in assembling the 2002 season’s team.
The movie narrative unfolds as Billy Beane encounters Peter Brand, a brilliant young economist with an exceptional penchant for collecting intricate player data. Brand becomes Billy’s trusted assistant, and together, they embark on a statistical revolution, making player acquisition decisions that defy conventional wisdom.
They opt to sign players who had previously been dismissed by both media and fans. To their astonishment, this bold experiment yields incredible results, culminating in the Oakland Athletics achieving a historic 20-game winning streak, etching their name in the annals of league records.
https://youtu.be/50-Qyq-95bQ?si=4cfqOrZ81Ao8zRJ6
How does the movie relate to São Paulo FC?
São Paulo’s recent transfer dealings echo this remarkable story. In the past season, the club displayed a striking parallel as they acquired three players from teams that had faced relegation, mirroring the plot of the movie. Notably, players like Rafinha and Alisson, who had experienced relegation with Grêmio, and Wellington Rato, formerly with Atlético Goianiense, joined São Paulo. Despite the setbacks these players had faced in their previous clubs, São Paulo had unwavering faith in their potential.
Carlos Belmonte, the esteemed director of São Paulo, underlined their steadfast commitment to this innovative approach, emphasizing, “We persistently invest in this project that began with our arrival. São Paulo’s pursuit isn’t centered on marquee names; it’s a quest for exceptional talents capable of adding substantial value.
The triumphant championship-winning squad boasted three players with relegation backgrounds – Rafinha, Alisson, and Wellington Rato. Additionally, two starters who were formerly considered reserves, namely Rafael and Caio Paulista, further exemplify our unwavering dedication to this vision.”
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