Santos FC takes Mayke's contract case to court as Zé Rafael departs by mutual agreement

Santos Futebol Clube was unable to reach an amicable termination with right‑back Mayke. After negotiations stalled, the club referred the dispute to its legal department and the player is expected to file a lawsuit to end his contract, which runs until 2027. Mayke, out of coach Cuca’s plans since June, made only eight appearances for Santos in 2026.

In contrast, midfielder Zé Rafael reached a mutual termination with the club. The 33‑year‑old, also not in Cuca’s plans, will leave the team after agreeing to a settlement that includes a modest indemnity and the waiver of image‑right claims. His contract also extended to the end of 2027, and he made 40 appearances for Santos since joining in 2025.

Both cases reflect Santos’ effort to reduce its wage bill and resolve contracts of players who are no longer in the first‑team squad.