C.D. Nacional faces criticism following coaching change

Following C.D. Nacional's 3-2 defeat against Rio Ave, former player Ruben Micael has publicly criticized the club's management and the decision to dismiss coach João Gião after only four matches.

Micael expressed frustration on social media, questioning the decision-making of president Rui Alves. He suggested that the dismissal was due to tactical disagreements rather than performance, arguing that the club should have sought dialogue regarding playing systems instead of replacing the coach with Alexandre Santos.

New head coach Alexandre Santos addressed the team's recent performance, noting that while the squad showed improvement and unity, they lacked consistency and defensive stability. Santos highlighted the need to consolidate their playing style and manage player anxiety following recent results, despite feeling the team is moving in the right direction.