América-RN faces squad overhaul as striker Cassiano departs and coach Ranielle's future uncertain

Striker Cassiano announced on August 5 that he will leave América Futebol Clube (RN) after the club’s elimination in the round of 16 of the Série D of the Brazilian Championship. In a social‑media post he thanked the club, apologized to supporters for not achieving promotion to Série C, and said he will honor the remainder of his contract while the team prepares a new roster for the 2027 season.

The club’s management is also reviewing the future of head coach Ranielle Ribeiro. His contract expired following the Série D campaign, which ended with a loss to Gama on penalties. The club’s football executive, Daniel de Paula, said no renewal meeting has taken place and a decision will be made after the SAF evaluates Ribeiro’s performance. Ribeiro, who led the team to a state championship after a 40‑year drought, posted a 67% win rate in 34 matches but failed to secure promotion, prompting the current uncertainty.