Cuca Considers Neymar's Synthetic Turf Dilemma

Santos boss Cuca is refusing to be rushed into a decision over Neymar’s involvement on synthetic turf, insisting the club’s entire technical staff will be part of the call.

The coach underlined his cautious approach in an interview with ESPN Brazil, making it clear this won’t be a one-man verdict.

“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,” Cuca said, pointing to a collective process rather than a simple yes or no on his star forward.

The hesitation is rooted in Neymar’s long-standing anger over artificial pitches. He aggravated an ankle problem against Atletico Mineiro last year and has not softened his stance since.

On social media, he didn’t bother dressing it up: “It's proven, synthetic is absolute s***.”

That frustration has not gone away. Asked in the mixed zone about the possibility of playing at Palmeiras’ home ground, with its synthetic surface, Neymar cut the conversation short.

“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 replied, batting away the question but leaving his doubts in plain sight.

His view of Allianz Parque has been clear for some time. The forward has previously dismissed the idea of playing there, comparing the experience to a small-sided game on a cramped, unforgiving field.

“Playing at Allianz, for me, is impossible. Playing on a 7-a-side surface is something that bothers any player, regardless of injuries,” he said, broadening the complaint beyond his own fitness.

He draws a sharp contrast with Morumbi, where the natural grass and feel underfoot give him confidence instead of concern.

“Morumbi is very good, and I feel better there. I feel good on that pitch.”

Between a coach preaching caution and a star who openly detests synthetic turf, the next trip to Allianz Parque is no routine fixture decision for Santos. It’s a test of how far they are willing to push their main man against a surface he simply does not trust.