The Peixe coach stated that the plan will be defined after discussions with the player and the club's medical team in the coming days.
Santos coach Cuca brought up Neymar's situation after the 2-1 defeat to Botafogo in the Campeonato Brasileiro. In a press conference held this Thursday (July 16), the coach was asked about the schedule for the star player, who is preparing to return to the club.
According to Cuca, there is no specific training schedule or activities outlined for the number 10 yet. The entire agenda will be elaborated jointly, after dialogues with the athlete himself and the health professionals who are part of the Alvinegro Praiano team.
The indecision regarding Neymar's next steps generates anticipation among fans and the press. The careful planning aims to ensure the player's best physical condition and well-being upon his return, considering his recent match history.
Cuca Defines Neymar's Return to Santos as a Priority Post-Defeat
After the away setback, Cuca was transparent in discussing Neymar's arrival. He emphasized that the player's individual planning is a crucial stage that demands special attention from the football department. “I still don't have a schedule for him; he will report back tomorrow. We will analyze, talk to the player, check with the physiology and physical department, to see when we can count on him,” declared Cuca, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary evaluation.
Neymar's return to the club is scheduled for this Friday (July 17), one day after the coach's press conference. From then on, Santos will intensify discussions and analyses to integrate the star player back into the squad safely and efficiently, aiming for the best performance in future matches.
Neymar's Recent History: Performance with the Brazilian National Team
Neymar's return to Santos comes after his participation in important matches for the Brazilian National Team. The forward played in two World Cup matches, demonstrating his return from a previous injury program. On these occasions, he had limited time on the field.
Against Scotland, the number 10 played for 14 minutes, while against Norway, his presence was 23 minutes. In one of these appearances, Neymar managed to find the net, scoring one goal against the Norwegians, which demonstrates his ability even with reduced playing time.
Match Analysis: Santos' Defeat to Botafogo in the Brasileirão
Cuca's interview took place right after the match in which Santos was beaten by Botafogo 2-1, marking the resumption of the Campeonato Brasileiro. The match was characterized by a decisive play in the final minutes, which resulted in the home team's victory. The Santos defense failed at a crucial moment, allowing Kadir to score the winning goal.
Cuca lamented the result and pointed to the failure in the last play as decisive. “We failed in the last play of the match, which was a dangerous situation, a counter-attack from a counter-attack. Brazão went out of the area, I encourage him a lot to do that, and we were unlucky with that ball. One ended up kicking into another and offering the ball to the Botafogo player. We are sad and upset by the result,” explained the coach, visibly dissatisfied with the outcome.
Santos' Upcoming Commitments: Copa Sudamericana
The Santos team will have little time to recover and focus on the next challenges. The Peixe already has a commitment scheduled for next Tuesday (July 21), for the Copa Sudamericana.
The match will be away, in the competition's playoffs, where Santos will face Universidad Central from Venezuela. The match is scheduled for 9:30 PM, Brasília time, representing a chance to reverse the recent scenario and seek qualification in the continental tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Neymar report back to Santos?
Neymar reports back to Santos this Friday, July 17, to begin the formalities of his return to the club.
What is the initial schedule for Neymar at Santos?
There is no initial schedule defined for Neymar yet. The plan will be aligned after discussions with the player, physiology, and physical department of Santos.
How was Neymar's last performance for the Brazilian National Team?
Neymar played in two World Cup matches for the Brazilian National Team, playing 14 minutes against Scotland and 23 minutes against Norway, scoring one goal against the Norwegians.
What is Santos' next match?
Santos' next match will be on Tuesday, July 21, against Universidad Central from Venezuela, in the Copa Sudamericana playoffs, at 9:30 PM.
