# Grêmio faces relegation crisis and internal restructuring > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/grmio-coaching-change-and-contract-dispute > Updated: 2026-10-19T22:49:58.000Z. Sources: 28. Developments: 9. Grêmio is currently embroiled in a relegation battle in the Brasileirão, sitting in 18th place with 31 points. Following a 0-0 draw in the recent Gre-Nal derby, statistical models indicate a 63.6% probability of relegation for the club. This struggle is compounded by what commentators suggest are the lingering effects of the 2024 climate disaster in Rio Grande do Sul on the stability of local clubs. To address internal tensions and prepare for an upcoming decisive match against Cruzeiro, head coach Renato Portaluppi has organized a team barbecue and a training match against Sindicato dos Atletas. Training at CT Luiz Carvalho has shifted focus toward ball possession and tactical recovery. Despite these efforts, Portaluppi continues to criticize the club’s recruitment strategy, specifically highlighting communication barriers caused by a high number of foreign players. As the club prepares for the Cruzeiro clash at the Arena do Grêmio, player Marlon has emphasized the need for psychological focus and intelligence to navigate the current pressure. For spectators, the club has implemented mandatory facial biometrics for match entry. Additionally, the match will feature observers from the CBF scouting players for the national team under Carlo Ancelotti. Following a 4-2 loss to Cruzeiro, Grêmio’s situation has intensified. Simulations now indicate a 43.35% probability that both Grêmio and Internacional will be relegated to Série B together, while the chance of both remaining in the top flight has fallen to 8.45%. Amidst these results, Renato Gaúcho has publicly questioned the quality and experience of the squad's recent signings. Despite rumors regarding his position, the manager has denied resigning and expressed his intention to lead the team through the end of the season. ## Claims - Grêmio lost 4-2 to Cruzeiro at home. (corroborated by 3 sources) - Grêmio's coach criticized the board for the squad's composition and the recruitment of unknown players. (corroborated by 2 sources) - Grêmio remains in the relegation zone (Z4) with 31 points after 31 rounds. (corroborated by 2 sources) - The coach stated that some players arrived significantly overweight. (single source) - Internacional is in 17th place with 32 points. (single source) - Corinthians drew 1-1 against Vitória, reaching 33 points. (single source) - Commentator Felipe Melo criticized Renato Gaúcho for exposing players in press conferences. (single source) ## Timeline ### 2026-10-19: Grêmio faces relegation risk amid internal tension Grêmio faces increased relegation risk in the Brasileirão following a loss to Cruzeiro and public criticism from coach Renato Gaúcho regarding squad recruitment and player fitness. 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-coach-renato-gacho-criticizes-board-after-loss ### 2026-10-13: Grêmio prepares for Cruzeiro clash amid relegation battle Grêmio prepares for a crucial Brasileirão clash against Cruzeiro amid relegation struggles, internal squad critiques by coach Renato Gaúcho, and scouting by CBF for the national team. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-resumes-training-ahead-of-cruzeiro-match ### 2026-10-13: Grêmio and Internacional face relegation crisis in Brasileirão Grêmio and Internacional face high relegation probabilities in the Brasileirão following a scoreless Gre-Nal derby, with both clubs fighting to escape the bottom four. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-and-internacional-face-relegation-battle-in-brasileiro ### 2026-10-13: Grêmio investigates suspected racism during Gre-Nal 455 Grêmio has opened an investigation and promised preventive suspension for any members involved in a suspected racist incident during the Gre-Nal 455 derby. 8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-investigates-suspected-racism-during-gre-nal-455 ### 2026-10-11: Grêmio faces investigations following controversial Gre-Nal derby Following a 1-1 Gre-Nal draw, Grêmio faces investigations into racist gestures by a fan, crowd misconduct, and controversial political statements made by coach Renato Portaluppi. 14 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-coach-renato-portaluppi-criticizes-squad-recruitment-and-communication ### 2026-09-30: Grêmio integrates youth talent and seeks playmaker under Renato Portaluppi Grêmio manager Renato Portaluppi is integrating youth prospect João Borne into the professional squad while searching for a traditional number 10 playmaker to improve the team's standing in the Brasileirão. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-integrates-youth-talent-and-seeks-playmaker-under-renato-portaluppi ### 2026-09-25: Grêmio undergoes squad and staff changes under Renato Portaluppi Renato Portaluppi is restructuring Grêmio's technical staff and squad, including re-evaluating loanee Caio Paulista and integrating youth players as the club prepares for the return of the Brasileirão. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-conducts-technical-and-physical-training-sessions ### 2026-09-21: Grêmio implements coaching change and structural shifts Grêmio has appointed Renato Portaluppi as head coach to replace Luís Castro. Amidst a battle against relegation, the club is restructuring its training and physical preparation departments. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-president-explains-coaching-change-and-disputes-exit-fee ### 2026-09-21: Grêmio faces financial dispute over Luís Castro contract termination Grêmio faces a financial impasse with former coach Luís Castro over his contract termination, as the club seeks installment payments while Castro demands full settlement upfront. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/grmio-faces-financial-dispute-over-lus-castro-contract-termination --- Cite as: Grêmio faces relegation crisis and internal restructuring. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/grmio-coaching-change-and-contract-dispute