The PFA Coaching team visit Vasco da Gama, the third biggest club in Brazil with an estimated fan base of 23 million!
Founded by Portuguese immigrants the ground is in a poor, run down area of Rio.
In contrast to the area the facade of the main stand is a magnificent symbol of local pride and passion in the club.
Director of Football Rodrigo Caetano hosted our study group as we toured the ground, learning of the history and traditions of Vasco.
The focus on this visit was to gain an understanding of the philosophy, identity and structure of the club. It's Portuguese traditions means they would find it very difficult to choose an English manager before a Portuguese manager if they ever looked abroad.
The first priority for him is to produce a winning team. Developing players to meet the demands of Vasco and their passionate fans.
They focus their scouting on small towns within the Rio county boundaries and look for technique above all else.
It was an interesting visit to a club with a clear identity focused on its traditional roots.
.jpg)
