Neymar Included in Santos Squad for Copa do Brasil Quarter-Final Against Palmeiras Despite Turf Concerns

Neymar has been named in the Santos squad for their upcoming Copa do Brasil quarter-final first leg against rivals Palmeiras, even though concerns about the artificial turf at Nubank Parque remain. The 34-year-old forward had previously shown hesitation about playing on synthetic surfaces due to his history with ankle injuries.

Squad Confirmation Ends Speculation

Santos officially confirmed Neymar will travel for Wednesday's match at Nubank Parque. His inclusion ends doubts that followed Santos' recent 1-1 draw with Mirassol, where his participation was uncertain because of previous ankle issues aggravated by playing on artificial ground.

Coach Cuca’s Approach on Neymar’s Availability

The Santos head coach Cuca highlighted that the decision on Neymar’s involvement would be a collective one involving the technical staff. Speaking to ESPN Brazil, Cuca said, "I will talk to him and we will make our decisions. With him and the entire squad. We'll determine what is best to do."

Neymar’s Criticism of Artificial Turf

Neymar has openly criticized synthetic pitches after aggravating an ankle injury against Atletico Mineiro last year. He expressed his frustration on social media, stating, "It's proven, synthetic is absolute s***." When asked about playing at Palmeiras’ home turf, he responded cautiously: "Man, are you already thinking about that? Calm down, there’s a game on Sunday. I don’t know [if I’ll play on synthetic turf]." He previously described venues like Allianz as impossible to play on and said the 7-a-side surface affects players regardless of injury status. In contrast, he feels comfortable at Morumbi stadium.

Growing Opposition to Artificial Surfaces in Brazil

Resistance to synthetic turf is rising among Brazilian footballers. Alongside Neymar, players such as Lucas Moura, Gabigol, and Thiago Silva have voiced their opposition to the spread of artificial pitches. Neymar remarked, "It is absurd that we have to discuss synthetic grass on our pitches."

Several major Brazilian stadiums, including Liga Arena, Nilton Santos, Arena MRV, Arena Conda, and Pacaembu in São Paulo, currently use artificial turf.

Santos Face Busy Schedule Ahead

Santos must navigate a challenging week with a trip to face Corinthians in the Campeonato Brasileiro followed by the Copa do Brasil second leg against Palmeiras at Vila Belmiro on September 2. Coach Cuca plans to carefully manage Neymar’s fitness to keep him ready for this demanding run of fixtures.

• Match: Copa do Brasil Quarter-final First Leg
• Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2026
• Venue: Nubank Parque
• Upcoming Fixtures: Away vs Corinthians, Home vs Palmeiras (Sep 2)