Santos head coach Cuca has admitted he is uncertain whether Neymar will feature in Wednesday's Copa do Brasil quarter-final first leg against Palmeiras due to the synthetic pitch at Nubank Parque. The Brazil international is an outspoken critic of artificial surfaces, leaving his availability in doubt ahead of a crucial cup encounter in Sao Paulo.
The long-standing rivalry between Neymar and Thiago Mendes reached boiling point on Sunday as the Vasco da Gama midfielder pointedly ignored the Santos superstar during the pre-match handshakes. The frosty exchange at São Januário sparked immediate reactions across social media, with Neymar’s inner circle weighing in on the latest chapter of a feud that dates back to their time in Ligue 1.
Santos star Neymar has raised fresh doubts over his participation in the upcoming Copa do Brasil quarter-final tie against Palmeiras due to concerns over the synthetic pitch at Nubank Parque. The 34-year-old forward has long been a vocal critic of artificial surfaces, raising questions about his readiness to play in the crucial fixture on August 26.
Santos star Neymar lashed out at "negative" home supporters after being booed during Thursday's 2-1 Copa Sudamericana comeback victory against Macara at Vila Belmiro. Despite registering two assists to complete a hard-fought round-of-16 first-leg win, the former Brazilian international urged critical fans with pessimistic attitudes to "stay home" instead.
Santos head coach Cuca has confirmed he will hold a private meeting with Neymar to address the forward's worsening disciplinary record. The Brazilian superstar was forced to watch from the sidelines as his team suffered a damaging defeat in his absence.
Santos FC
