Santos faces defensive crisis as Lucas Veríssimo suffers injury

Santos defender Lucas Veríssimo has been diagnosed with an injury to his right posterior thigh, potentially sidelining him for the remainder of the season. The diagnosis followed an injury sustained during a match against Fluminense. Medical assessments suggest he may require at least a month and a half before returning to ball training, which casts doubt on his availability for the final matches of the year.

Veríssimo's absence exacerbates existing injury concerns for the squad. The club is already managing several other absences, including Willian Arão and Escobar, both of whom are dealing with thigh injuries. Other players currently in the medical department include Arthur, Gabriel Brazão, and Vini Lira.

Nineteen-year-old João Alencar is expected to step in as the primary replacement in defense, likely starting in the upcoming match against Bahia at Vila Belmiro. Alencar, who recently renewed his contract with the club through 2031, previously debuted for the professional team in May 2025.