Cuca to Address Neymar's Discipline as Santos Faces Suspension Woes

Santos coach Cuca has confirmed plans to speak privately with Neymar about his growing disciplinary issues. The Brazilian forward has accumulated nine yellow cards in just 19 appearances this season, leading to a suspension crisis for the team.

Impact of Neymar’s Absence on Santos

The absence of their captain hit Santos hard on Sunday when they lost 2-0 to Athletico Paranaense at Vila Belmiro. This defeat leaves the club stuck in the relegation zone, underscoring how much they depend on Neymar’s creativity and leadership in attack. Without him, the team generated chances but lacked the sharpness Neymar usually brings.

The 34-year-old star has already surpassed last season’s total of eight cautions, despite playing fewer matches this year. His presence on the pitch often means the difference between scoring quality chances or missing out.

Cuca Demands More Discipline

After the match, Cuca expressed his frustration about Neymar’s frequent bookings. He stressed the importance of avoiding suspensions to keep the key players available during crucial moments of the season. "Yes, we will talk about the cards," Cuca said. "It is very important that he does not miss matches like today. Our finishing could have been better, not necessarily by quantity, but by quality."

Despite impressive stats — eight goals and five assists in 2026 — Neymar’s inability to stay on the field consistently poses a threat to Santos' ambitions both in the league and cup competitions.

Tensions Off the Field Add to Concerns

Neymar’s disciplinary troubles extend beyond yellow cards. Following a Copa do Brasil win against Remo, he was involved in a heated confrontation with opposing officials, captured on camera dancing and shouting in the tunnel. This led to criticism from Remo’s president, Antonio Carlos Teixeira, who condemned Neymar's behavior as provoking the opposition.

Teixeira said: "That bum Neymar, who's idolised by many children, did his antics here and then came to provoke us. We're guilty of idolising a bunch of bums like that guy."

These incidents add pressure on Neymar as he approaches what might be the closing chapter of his career.

Crucial Matches Ahead for Santos

Santos now prepare for the Copa do Brasil quarter-finals, where Neymar faces another risk of suspension, being just one booking away from a ban. With the draw scheduled for Tuesday, Cuca must manage his squad carefully to avoid losing his second-highest scorer in important fixtures that could decide the club’s fate in the league and their hopes for silverware.

Speculation about Neymar’s future continues, with rumors linking him to Inter Miami in 2027 to reunite with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. For now, though, his focus remains on helping Santos stay afloat in the top flight.

• Upcoming Fixtures:
• 14 Aug 2026: Santos FC vs CSD Macara (Copa Sudamericana)
• 15 Aug 2026, 23:30: Red Bull Bragantino vs Athletico Paranaense (Serie A)