Cuca Plans Talk with Neymar Amid Rising Suspension Concerns at Santos

Santos coach Cuca has confirmed he will meet privately with Neymar to discuss the striker’s growing disciplinary problems. The Brazilian star missed a recent match due to suspension, and the team felt his absence deeply during a 2-0 loss to Athletico Paranaense at Vila Belmiro.

This defeat leaves Santos in the relegation zone, underscoring how much they depend on Neymar’s creativity and leadership. In 19 appearances this season, the 34-year-old forward has already received nine yellow cards, surpassing last year’s total of eight cautions.

Cuca Demands Better Discipline

After the match, Cuca expressed frustration over Neymar’s repeated bookings. He said, "Yes, we will talk about the cards. It is very important that he does not miss matches like today." Cuca believes the team had chances but lacked the finishing ability Neymar usually brings.

The coach wants his key players available for the crucial end-of-season period. Neymar’s form remains strong, with eight goals and five assists in 2026, but his frequent suspensions threaten the club’s survival hopes.

Tensions Off the Pitch

Neymar’s disciplinary issues extend beyond yellow cards. After a Copa do Brasil win against Remo, he was involved in a confrontation with opposition staff in the tunnel. This incident drew harsh criticism from Remo’s president, Antonio Carlos Teixeira, who said, "That bum Neymar, idolized by many kids, did his antics here and came to provoke us. We are guilty of idolizing bums like him."

Such episodes add pressure on Neymar as he navigates what could be his final year in professional football.

Upcoming Challenges for Santos

Santos await their quarter-final opponent in the Copa do Brasil, where Neymar sits just one booking away from another suspension. With the draw coming Tuesday, Cuca knows losing his second-highest scorer would be a major blow to their hopes for trophies and top-tier survival.

Meanwhile, speculation surrounds Neymar’s future beyond this season. Rumors link him to a move to Inter Miami in 2027 to reunite with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, but right now, his focus remains firmly on helping Santos avoid relegation.

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