Santos coach Cuca called for new signings across all positions during the World Cup break to address widespread squad shortages. He emphasized the need for reinforcements in defense, midfield, and attack as injuries and player departures have depleted the roster.
"A little in every area (laughs). A little at the back, a little in midfield, a little up front. Two for each would be good, right? It’s not just one area. All of this is being discussed with the president, with Alexandre, and we’re going to work on it," Cuca said.
The team’s defensive options have been severely limited. Igor Vinícius has been playing through pain with a broken toe, while his backup Mayke faces strong rejection from Santos fans and could leave the club in the transfer window. On the left side, Escobar is the only viable full-back after Vini Lira suffered a season-ending left knee injury and Rafael Gonzaga failed to meet expectations, returning to the U-20 team.
In midfield, injuries have forced the club to rely on academy players. João Schmidt and Gabriel Menino are sidelined, and Zé Rafael is training separately from the squad, with his contract possibly being terminated. Veteran Tomás Rincón is not part of Cuca’s plans. As a result, under-18 players Samuel Pierri and Davizinho have been fast-tracked into the first team.
"The two boys who played today aren’t even 18. It’s too early to evaluate them, but they’re being forced to mature. Like papaya that you wrap in newspaper so it ripens faster," Cuca said.
Up front, winger Moisés stands as the only player in the squad with the technical ability to consistently take on defenders one-on-one, according to the coaching staff. However, he is currently facing doubts and criticism from fans. With the second half of the year approaching, Santos’ board is expected to act in the transfer market to resolve these personnel gaps.
No independent assessment was available for this report.