Jean Pierre Guisel Costa, also known as Pito, was born in Chapecó in 1991 and is recognized as one of the top futsal players in the world. The Brazilian star spoke with MARCA ahead of another World Cup, which begins on September 14 in Uzbekistan. At 32 years old, Pito has played for the three major teams in Spanish futsal: starting with ElPozo Murcia (2016-2019), then moving to Inter Movistar (2019-2021), and since 2021, he’s been with FC Barcelona, where he’s won six titles, including the Champions League in 2022. He was named the league’s best player in 2021 and 2023 and is under contract with Barcelona until 2027, although he hopes to extend his stay even longer.
the season
Question: How do you evaluate this season at Barça?
Answer: It has been a challenging season for everyone, especially with the injuries we had. Those injuries took a toll on us, and we were exhausted by the time the playoffs came around. We aimed for more, including the Champions League, but we fell short, lacking the strength to reach our goals. In the end, we managed to secure a title, but we know that isn’t enough for Barça. We need to work hard, and hopefully, this season won’t be as affected by injuries. Since we’re not in the Champions League, our goal is to win every other title.
Q: What are your thoughts on Jesús Velasco’s departure and Tino Pérez’s arrival, with whom you worked at Inter Movistar?
A: Jesús chose to step down, and I believe he’s keeping an eye on the Spanish national team. He never discussed it openly, but that’s the word around. I played under Tino at Inter Movistar for two seasons, and we won all four Spanish titles. I trust Tino’s work, and I’m happy and optimistic, but we have to prove ourselves on the court.
Q: This season brings many changes, including the coach’s departure, Ferrao and Coelho leaving, and no Champions League competition this year. How are you dealing with it?
A: At Barça, everyone felt a bit down about it. We knew how important the Champions League was, but we just didn’t have the strength to go all the way. Now, we have to focus on working hard. This season will be intense because without the Champions League, we must win all the other titles, and we have to approach it with that mindset.
Pito: “Brazil is always the favorite no matter where it plays.”
Q: You have a contract with Barça until 2027, when you’ll be 36. Do you want to retire in Barcelona?
A: I would love to continue playing at Barça, and I’d like to extend my contract for another two or three years. I know it’s tough because at Barcelona, you have to perform at your best every day, showing your skills and staying fit. My goal is to maintain my best physical form to stay here as long as possible.
Q: How are you personally preparing for this World Cup in Uzbekistan?
A: I’m feeling good now. Last year, I struggled with pubalgia, but I’ve had time to rest and treat it. I’m training every day to be in the best possible shape for the national team, and I feel really well-prepared.
Q: Brazil is ranked number one by FIFA. Do you think they are the favorites to win their sixth World Cup?
A: Brazil will always be a favorite no matter where it plays. However, it’s not like the old days when it was just Brazil and Spain dominating. Now, many teams are strong contenders. There are several teams that can compete, but I’m confident Brazil will be a strong contender. Spain, along with Portugal, Morocco, and Argentina, are all in the mix too.
lucao
Q: What do you think about top players like Lucao being left off the final roster?
A: It’s unfortunate, but Brazil has so many talented players, and there are only so many spots available. Even Matheus, who is a great player and my teammate at Barcelona, didn’t make the cut. Brazil could easily field two or three teams that would be competitive.
Q: How do you view the Spanish national team’s chances in the World Cup?
A: I think they’re in good shape and are probably one of the favorites, along with us, Portugal, Morocco, and Argentina. They’re well-prepared. I’ve talked a lot with Antonio and Didac, and Sergio Lozano just joined them—they’re confident. Sergio told me that if everything goes well, we could meet in the semifinals. It would be an incredible match.
Jesús Velasco – Spain Coach
Q: How would you feel if Jesús Velasco became the new coach of Spain?
A: I think he would do an excellent job. Everyone knows his track record; he’s one of the best in history. If that happens, Brazil will have a tough challenge because Spain will be very strong.
Q: Who would be your ideal opponent in the World Cup final?
A: Argentina. I’ve lost three championships to them. I got my revenge in the Copa America, but I still want to settle the score from the last World Cup.
Q: Have you gotten over the losses to Argentina after the Copa América final?
A: A little, yes, but there are still things left undone. Personally, I’ve lost three championships to them, so I feel there’s still more to be done.
