Hernanes warns Brazil of a shrinking space for creative players
Former Brazil international Anderson Hernanes de Carvalho Andrade Lima, known as the Profeta, has emerged from a year‑long sabbatical in Italy to take charge of the youth set‑up at ASD Sale, while lambasting modern Brazilian football (Brasil) for offering no room for the transgressive talent he once embodied.
A sabbatical turned coaching stint
During his break from the sport, Hernanes ran a restaurant and produced wines in Italy, describing the experience as “a culture of wine, of restaurants, that enchanted me”. He says the entrepreneurial world revealed “headaches” similar to those he faced in football, reinforcing his desire to return to the game.
Now appointed supervisor of the youth categories at ASD Sale, he remains undecided about his next step, weighing the possibilities of becoming a player agent or a coach. He has completed the UEFA B and A licences in Europe, and stresses that his path is “a little open” as he follows what makes his heart shine.
Harsh words for Brazil's football system
Hernanes is outspoken about what he calls the “football industry” in Brazil, arguing it favours physical attributes over technique and intellect. He summed up his frustration with São Paulo, stating, “É muita desordem, muita coisa que não me inspira a querer voltar.”
The former midfielder also warned that the country lacks “craques”, lamenting that the current model leaves no space for the “transgressor”. He believes the emphasis on size and strength stifles creativity, a view he shared during his interview with Abre Aspas.
When asked whether he misses Brazil, Hernanes replied, “Mas não tem saudade do Brasil?” – a rhetorical question that underlines his forward‑looking mindset rather than nostalgia.
A decorated career and future plans
Hernanes’ playing résumé includes spells at São Paulo, Santo André, Lazio, Inter Milan, Juventus, Hebei China and Sport, and he collected titles such as the Brazilian league (2007, 2008), the Paulista (2021), Serie A (2015/16) and two Coppa Italia trophies (2012/13, 2015/16). Internationally he earned 27 caps, scored two goals, and was part of the 2013 Confederations Cup‑winning squad, plus a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Although often described as ambidextrous, Hernanes clarified that he is right‑footed who, through disciplined training, developed his left foot to the level of a left‑handed player. He enjoys teaching, saying that seeing a youngster “assimilate, put into practice and improve” is his primary motivation.
Looking ahead, he intends to let “the heart that shines guide” his decisions, hinting that a return to the pitch may begin with hands‑on work with the youth at ASD Sale.