Our Friends Afar: Pernambuco Supporters Group, Brazil

My name is Guilherme Ronald and I’m from Pernambuco, Brazil. I am the leader of the Pernambuco Supporters Group here in Brazil and helped found the first Watford WhatsApp group with fans from all over Brazil.

I have always been passionate about English football, mainly because of the speed and strength that is involved. However, in 2015, after watching a popular Brazilian YouTuber who played Career Mode on FIFA with Watford, I began to research the club and I found the club’s history to be fascinating. From the amazing work done by the great Graham Taylor, taking the club from the Fourth Division to the First Division, as well as being runners-up in the 1982/83 season and runners-up in the FA Cup in 1984. From there I began to watch all the matches that were televised and became a huge fan. One of the most defining moments during my first season as a fan was, in fact, the win over Arsenal at the Emirates in the FA Cup.

Despite being far away, I always follow the club closely. I watch all the matches televised on ESPN or DAZN, I’m always on top of news and what’s going on behind the scenes, for example, signings, departures, tactical aspects, player and team technique, press conferences with players and the manager and interacting a lot with fellow Brazilian Watford fans. I also spend time learning more about the club’s history and significant past fixtures.

My favourite player is Troy Deeney because of everything he represents to the club and fans. He is a player that was fundamental to the club’s return to the Premier League. I also have a soft spot for Heurelho Gomes and João Pedro, being that they are fellow compatriots, as well as Étienne Capoue, Abdoulaye Doucouré, Ismaïla Sarr, Gerard Deulofeu and Ben Foster.

My favourite Watford game is the FA Cup semi-final against Wolves, when the team made a comeback with two insane goals from Deulofeu. I don’t think I have ever cheered so much in my life!

I will always support Watford and do everything to get more fans from generations to come by using the momentous game against Leicester City in the Championship play-offs 2012/13 as motivation.

If there are more Brazilians or South Americans interested in being part of our “Watford Brasil” WhatsApp group, please get in touch with me on Twitter or Email.