The 2024 season of the Brazilian Serie B commences with high expectations following a competitive 2023 season. With numerous traditional teams vying to return to the top tier of national football, fans can anticipate an intense and thrilling competition.
2023 Serie B Champion
Atlético Goianiense clinched the 2023 Serie B championship, earning their return to Serie A after a solid and consistent campaign. The Dragão distinguished themselves with a robust defence and efficient attack, deservedly securing the top spot.
Teams Relegated from Serie A to Serie B in 2023
Four traditional teams were relegated from Serie A to Serie B in 2023, adding significant weight to the 2024 competition:
⚽ Santos FC: For the first time in their centenary history, Santos will play in Serie B, a shock for fans and the Brazilian football scene.
⚽ Goiás: Following an underwhelming campaign, the Esmeraldino team seeks to restructure and swiftly return to the top tier.
⚽ Coritiba: Coxa Branca endured a difficult season and now focuses on reclaiming their position in Serie A.
⚽ América Mineiro: The Coelho failed to remain in Serie A and now aims to chart a path back to the elite of Brazilian football.
Main Contenders for Promotion
The battle for promotion to Serie A in 2025 will be fierce, with several strong teams contending:
⚽ Santos FC: Despite their unexpected relegation, Santos boasts a strong squad and is a favorite for promotion. Key players like Cazares and Otero will be crucial.
⚽ Goiás: Investing heavily in restructuring, Goiás aims to return to the elite of Brazilian football.
⚽ Sport Recife: Traditionally strong in Serie B, Sport has assembled a competitive squad and stands a good chance of fighting for promotion.
⚽ América Mineiro: After an unstable season, América MG has reinforced their squad, emerging as strong contenders.
⚽ Ceará: Determined to return to Serie A, Vozão has prepared intensively for the 2024 season.
Key Players to Follow in Serie B 2024
Several players promise to stand out in the 2024 Serie B season:
⚽ Diego Pituca (Santos): Voted the best player in the Campeonato Paulista in 2024, he will be pivotal for Santos’ ambitions.
⚽ Gabriel Poveda (Avaí): At 25, center forward Gabriel Poveda is Avaí’s biggest hope for goals, already scoring eight in 15 games this season. In 2022, he was the top scorer in Serie B with 19 goals for Sampaio Corrêa.
⚽ Lucas Lima (Sport): The 33-year-old midfielder returned to Sport after 11 years, aiming to replicate his 2013 success with the club.
⚽ Leandro Damião (Coritiba): The veteran striker, 34, returns to Brazilian football after five seasons at Kawasaki Frontale in Japan.
⚽ Paulo Baya (Goiás): The 24-year-old striker is Goiás’ top scorer this season with 11 goals in 16 games, alongside two assists. He appears more mature to shine in the competition.
The Situation of Santos FC
Santos FC’s relegation to Serie B was one of the most shocking events of 2023. For the first time in their history, The Peixe will compete in the second division, a significant blow for a club with a rich tradition of national and international titles.
For the 2024 season, the club signed several new players and new coach Fabio Carille, who was previously in Saudi Arabia. The pressure from the fans, known for their passion and unwavering support, will serve as an additional motivating factor for the players.
Expectations for the Season
The 2024 Brazilian Serie B season begins with a mix of anxiety and hope for the fans. The presence of traditional clubs and experienced players promises to elevate the competition’s level. Each round will be an intense battle, with teams fighting for promotion and survival in one of the world’s most challenging and unpredictable leagues.
With so many factors at play, the 2024 Serie B will be a true marathon where tradition, talent, and determination will determine who achieves glory and returns to the elite of Brazilian football. Fans will be keenly following and fervently supporting their beloved clubs.
The Playbook is powered by Genius Sports. We will provide regular updates of the Brazilian Serie B throughout the 2024 season.
