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Neymar has clarified his omission from the Santos squad after watching his side slump to a comprehensive 3-0 defeat against bitter rivals Palmeiras in the Copa do Brasil. The 34-year-old forward was left out of Wednesday's round-of-16 first leg entirely, sparking intense scrutiny following the Peixe's toothless display at Nubank Parque.

Santos football executive director Alexandre Mattos insisted that leaving Neymar out of their 3-0 Copa do Brasil defeat to Palmeiras was purely tactical. The veteran forward was omitted from the matchday team sheet, sparking debate surrounding his physical condition and the venue's synthetic surface.

Neymar has been named in the Santos squad for Wednesday's Copa do Brasil quarter-final first leg against fierce rivals Palmeiras. The forward's inclusion comes despite long-standing concerns regarding artificial turf at Nubank Parque, with the 34-year-old previously expressing strong reluctance to risk his fitness on synthetic surfaces.

The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has reportedly made contact with the representatives of Santos starlet Robinho Jr. to discuss a potential future with the Azzurri. While the teenager has been on the radar of the Brazilian national team, his eligibility for Italy has opened the door to an international tug-of-war over his allegiance.