Santos coach Cuca faces injury setbacks ahead of Botafogo clash

Santos will be without suspended forward Gabriel "Gabigol" Barbosa for Thursday's match against Botafogo at Nilton Santos Stadium. Coach Cuca must also decide how to replace the absent striker, weighing options between Rony and Thaciano, both of whom performed in preseason friendlies.

Medical doubts linger for midfielder Gabriel Bontempo, who is being treated for a pubic region inflammation, and winger Moisés, who suffered a left‑ankle sprain in a recent friendly. Neymar, who has been resting after Brazil duty, is set to return to training on Friday, but his participation in the Botafogo game is not confirmed. The line‑up for Santos is expected to feature a mix of recovered players and new selections as the club seeks to climb out of the relegation zone.

The 19th round of the Campeonato Brasileiro will see Botafogo host Santos, with both sides managing squad issues ahead of the encounter.