Santos striker Neymar missed a training session on Friday, November 28, at CT Rei Pelé after coming down with a flu-like illness, according to the club’s medical department. The absence was ordered by the club’s Health Nucleus just two days before a crucial Campeonato Brasileiro match against Corinthians.
Neymar’s Illness and Status for the Corinthians Clash
According to reports from the club and outlet A Tribuna, Neymar was sidelined from Friday’s workout due to a sudden flu. Despite the setback, club officials expect the number 10 to be included in the squad for Sunday’s match, though his physical condition will be evaluated again before the team travels to São Paulo following a final training session on Saturday morning.
The forward had participated normally in Thursday’s training session during the team’s reapresentation following a 3-0 defeat to Palmeiras. While players who started that match underwent a regenerative workout, Neymar trained alongside the rest of the non-starting squad. He had also been preserved by the technical staff and left out of the first leg of the Copa do Brasil quarterfinals against Palmeiras on Wednesday, November 26, to manage his workload.
Santos Squad Updates and Defensive Concerns
Beyond Neymar’s condition, Santos faces additional roster questions ahead of the derby. According to A Tribuna, central defender Lucas Veríssimo is doubtful for the matchup after experiencing discomfort in his left calf during the second half of the game against Palmeiras. Veríssimo had recently returned to the pitch following a three-week recovery from injury, and he will undergo medical examinations to determine his availability. If he cannot play, the defensive pairing will likely consist of Willian Arão and Luan Peres.
On a more positive note for the attack, Gabigol is expected to return to the starting lineup. Gabigol began on the bench during the initial stage of the midweek clash against Palmeiras but is slated to partner with Neymar in the attacking line at the Neo Química Arena.
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High Stakes at the Neo Química Arena
The upcoming classic carries heavy implications for Santos as the team fights to pull away from the bottom of the table. Under the command of coach Cuca, the squad is still searching for its first victory against a major rival this season, having recorded four draws and three losses in seven previous derby matches throughout 2026. Sunday’s fixture kicks off at 16:00 (Brasília time) in São Paulo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Neymar play against Corinthians?
According to Santos and reporting from A Tribuna, Neymar is expected to face Corinthians, provided he passes a final physical evaluation on Saturday morning following his recovery from a brief bout of flu.
What is Santos’s position in the Campeonato Brasileiro standings?
Santos enters the weekend in 14th place with 26 points, holding a two-point cushion above the relegation zone.
Why did Neymar miss the Copa do Brasil match against Palmeiras?
The technical staff chose to preserve Neymar during the Wednesday quarterfinal match as part of a planned workload control strategy.
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