Pepa is out as Sport Recife manager after the team’s 1-2 loss to Fluminense on Saturday. The club is rooted to the bottom of the Brasileirão table, still searching for their first win. They’ve suffered five defeats and managed just two draws under Pepa.
The club announced his departure, along with his coaching staff, including Samuel Correia, Hugo Silva, Pedro Oliveira, and Pedro Azevedo. “The Sport Club do Recife officially announces the dismissal of coach Pepa,” the statement read. “The club thanks them for their dedication and commitment.”
The Sport Club do Recife officially announces the dismissal of coach Pepa. The club thanks them for their dedication and commitment. pic.twitter.com/R2gCXtZwT0
— Sport Club do Recife (@sportrecife) May 4, 2025
Reasons Behind the Decision
Sport Recife president Yuri Romão explained the decision, saying, “We chose to part ways with coach Pepa and his staff. We’re grateful for their work.” Romão emphasized that the club is committed to its project and needs a change to move forward.
The team had a good run last season, earning promotion from Serie B to Serie A. They also won the Pernambuco state championship. However, their Brasileirão campaign has been a struggle. Portuguese players Sergio Oliveira, Gonçalo Paciência, and João Silva are part of the squad. Paciência is currently sidelined with an injury that will keep him out for about two months, while Oliveira is recovering from another.
Match Details
In Saturday’s match, Sport Recife took the lead through Pablo in the 24th minute. However, Serna equalized for Fluminense in the 60th, and Everaldo scored the winner in the 90+7 minute. João Silva started the game.
Pepa’s Record
Since taking over last year, Pepa has managed 45 games, winning 21, drawing 10, and losing 14. This isn’t his first time being let go after a poor run – in 2023, he was sacked by Cruzeiro after seven winless games.