Reflections on the Management of Soccer Clubs in Brazil

Objective. I discuss the present reality and future trends of the Brazilian soccer market, which primarily involves the big clubs. These clubs are already undergoing major changes, particularly with respect to increasing adoption of best practices in business management. However, there is still major challenges to be overcome in the future until our major clubs can finally achieve a standard of management excellence that guarantees them a financial sustainability and the possibility of forming increasingly strong and competitive teams. Methodology. This work follows a more free and open methodology seeking to stimulate a discussion, in the academic and practical arenas, about management and governance of football clubs. The paper has two parts: the first is a discussion about the current situation of the Brazilian soccer clubs, and the second is a projection of some future trends, given the need to professionalize the clubs and make them more prepared for a possible internationalization and transformation of managerial excellence in organizations. Limitations. This work does not pretend to make an accurate and definitive diagnosis of soccer clubs in Brazil, nor to discuss a final set of actions to be undertaken by the clubs themselves, in order to improve and modernize their management. I believe, however, that it can be a first step towards a more formalized and well directed discussion on the subject. Originality/Value. We dealt with an academically underexplored theme, particularly in Brazil, and we think such a theme deserves a greater attention given the importance of soccer in our country.