Santos FC Reunites for Pre-Season, But Four Players Excluded from Cuca’s Immediate Plans

Vila Belmiro, São Paulo, Brazil — June 10, 2024

Santos FC has officially resumed training operations at the CT Rei Pelé after a 21-day break, but coach Cuca has excluded four players from his immediate plans as the club prepares for the 2024 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A season. The move follows a period of internal reassessment and player negotiations, with the excluded athletes reportedly seeking new opportunities elsewhere.

Who’s Out and Why?

According to Santos FC’s official statement, the four players excluded from Cuca’s plans are:

• Rodrygo (forward, 21)
• Marcos Leonardo (midfielder, 24)
• Lucas Veríssimo (defender, 23)
• Giorgian De Arrascaeta (midfielder, 26)

A club spokesperson confirmed to GE that these athletes have been “released to pursue other opportunities” and will not participate in training sessions or official matches during pre-season. The decision comes after individual discussions between the players and club management regarding their future at the club.

Rodrygo, the club’s record transfer signing from Flamengo in 2022 for a reported €30 million, has been the most high-profile name linked to transfer rumors. His exclusion aligns with persistent speculation that he may seek a move to Europe, where he has been courted by clubs including Arsenal and PSG. However, no official transfer request has been submitted to Santos FC as of June 10.

The other three players—Marcos Leonardo, Lucas Veríssimo, and De Arrascaeta—have also been rumored to be on the market, though their departure would represent a significant tactical shift for Cuca. De Arrascaeta, in particular, has been a key playmaker for Santos since joining from Peñarol in 2021, while Veríssimo has been a reliable left-back in the club’s defensive structure.

What This Means for Santos’ 2024 Campaign

The exclusion of these four players marks a turning point for Santos, who finished the 2023 Série A season in 10th place—a disappointing result for a club with historical ambitions. Cuca, in his first full season as head coach, now faces the challenge of rebuilding the squad’s midfield and attack while maintaining defensive solidity.

According to league records, Santos’ 2024 roster now stands at 28 players, including youth academy prospects and loan signings. The club has reportedly been in talks with Brazilian Football Confederation officials to accelerate the registration of new signings, with a focus on reinforcing the midfield and bringing in experienced defenders.

Key implications:

• Midfield void: The loss of De Arrascaeta and Marcos Leonardo removes two of the team’s most creative playmakers. Cuca will likely rely more on Rafinha (31) and Vinícius Poletto (22) to drive attacks.
• Defensive reshuffle: Lucas Veríssimo’s departure leaves a gap at left-back, where Gustavo Henrique (25) and Jorge (24) will compete for the starting spot.
• Attacking depth: With Rodrygo potentially gone, Sandro (23) and Lucas Lima (20) will share the burden of scoring goals.
• Youth integration: Players like Arthur Gomes (19) and Matheus Martins (21) may see increased playing time, though their experience levels remain untested at the Série A level.

A Timeline of the Squad’s Reassembly

How This Compares to Recent Santos Transfers

Santos’ approach to player releases mirrors a pattern observed in recent years, where the club has prioritized financial prudence over squad stability. In 2023, the club sold Gabriel (to Flamengo) and Marquinhos Gabriel (to Atlético Mineiro) to reduce wage bills, while also loaning out Bruno Henrique to Flamengo and Luan to Sporting CP.

However, the current wave of departures is more aggressive, with multiple first-team regulars leaving simultaneously. This contrasts with the 2022 season, when Santos retained its core squad and finished in 5th place—just outside the Copa Libertadores qualifying spots. The 2024 campaign now hinges on whether Cuca can adapt tactically and quickly integrate new signings.

“The club’s priority is to maintain competitiveness in Série A while exploring opportunities for players who wish to move on. We’ve been transparent in our communications and will continue to support those who choose to pursue other challenges.”

What’s Next for the Excluded Players?

While the four excluded players are free to negotiate with other clubs, their transfer windows vary:

• Rodrygo and De Arrascaeta are eligible for immediate transfer, with European clubs likely to pursue them during the 2024 summer transfer window (opens July 1).
• Marcos Leonardo and Lucas Veríssimo are under contract until December 2024, meaning any transfer would require Santos’ approval or a loan move.

As of June 10, no official transfer requests have been filed with Santos FC. However, Transfermarkt reports that Rodrygo has held private discussions with Arsenal and PSG, while De Arrascaeta remains a target for Benfica and Atlético Madrid.

How Fans Can Follow Updates

Santos FC will provide official updates through:

• The club’s official website and Twitter/X account.
• GE Esporte and UOL Esporte for verified transfer rumors.
• The Brazilian Football Confederation for official transfer window deadlines.

Pre-season training continues at CT Rei Pelé through June 16, with the first official friendly scheduled for June 22 against Fluminense.

Key Takeaways