The return of the club icon Neymar generated massive tension at SantosBut the results in the field have failed to match the hype. Now the Brazilian legend has been hit by his first major setback since he returned to the club, Since head coach Pedro Caixinha has officially been exempted from his duties.
The decision was announced on Monday, Less than 24 hours after a 1-0-stop defeat against Fluminense in Matchday 3 in Brasileirao. Caixinha, who never completely won the fan base, saw that his position became unsustainable after a profitless start to the league campaign and recorded just one move and two losses.
In particular, The Fluminense -Match marked Neymar’s return to action after more than a month on the side line. His last appearance came under Campeonato Paulista quarter final against RB Bragantino, a game where he picked up a blow that sideways sided him from Brazil’s international fixtures.
Santos confirmed the news in an official statement published on X: “Santos Futebol Clube Annouces that head coach Pedro Coffin is in the long one responsible for the first team. Together with him, the assistant coaches leave Pedro Malta and Jose talks, fitness coach Guilherme Gomes and goalkeeper Jose Belman also the club. Assistant coach Cesar Sampio will take over on interim base. The board thanks the coach for his work and wishes him success in the next step in his career. “
Caixinha was employed in December 2023 but lasted only 112 days at the helm. In 17 matches in all competitions, the Portuguese manager published a record of 6 wins, 4 draws and 7 losses. His exit continues a turbulent trend for Santos, which makes him The club’s 12th coach since 2020. His replacement will be on the 13th for five years.
Familiar faces appear as potential replacements
Now sits at the bottom of Brasil’s top flights, Santos is under pressure to quickly turn their season– Especially with Neymar back in the lineup. A number of high -profile names are already linked to the vacant position.
According to Globo EsporteThe Club leaders have reached two remarkable candidates. The first is former Brazil National Team Boss Dorival juniorwhich reportedly weighs several offers and has not yet undertaken to return to the management.
The other is TitNeymar’s former coach with the Brazilian national team. While the two share a strong relationship suggests the Brazilian outlet report that Tite has shown some interest in starting negotiations at this stage. With a key fix against Atletico Mineiro on Wednesday, Santos is under pressure to act quickly when the coaching search intensifies.
