Santos and striker Gabriel Barbosa have a long-standing relationship. In recent days, more specifically, the Cruzeiro player gave some hints to the São Paulo club, which generated a considerable increase in rumors of a possible return.
During his participation in the Kings League, Gabigol stated that Santos would beat Palmeiras, help Cruzeiro and not fall to Series B. After Santos’ victory, the player was once again active on social media by publishing on X: “I warned you.”
At another time, still in the Kings League, when being provoked by Cris Guedes, Neymar’s friend, about a possible return to Vila Belmiro, Gabigol preferred not to commit, leaving the answer up in the air.
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Will Gabigol return to Santos?
At the beginning of 2025, Santos tried to sign Gabriel Barbosa, but the attacker chose to defend Cruzeiro. Local media sources reported that Peixe’s president, Marcelo Teixeira, was disappointed with the decision, but did not rule out a new move, as long as the team remained in Série A.
For a possible negotiation to progress, Santos would have to reorganize the salary sheet. This would include the departure of Tiquinho Soares, who receives more than R$1 million per month and has not been used by coach Vojvoda.
However, Gabigol has a contract with Cruzeiro until 2028, which would require a high-cost agreement. Thus, any movement depends on a favorable scenario in the Brazilian Championship and an analysis of the club’s financial conditions.
Santos focuses on staying in Series A
For now, Santos prefers not to think about important signings, as they are still fighting against relegation in the Brazilian Championship. The board understands that any discussion about reinforcements should only happen after the 2026 calendar has been defined.
Despite maintaining a climate of optimism regarding remaining in Series A, the club recognizes that a new drop would have serious effects on its finances.
Peixe occupies 16th place, with 36 points, one more than Vitória, the first team in the relegation zone. With five more games ahead and 15 points up for grabs, the São Paulo team needs to focus with maximum effort on staying in Series A.
Santos’ next games
- 19/11 – 21:30 – Santos x Mirassol – Brasileirão
- 24/11 – 21:00 – Inter x Santos – Brasileirão
- 28/11 – 21:30 – Santos x Sport – Brasileirão
- 03/12 – time to be confirmed – Juventude x Santos – Brasileirão
- 07/12 – time to be confirmed – Santos x Cruzeiro – Brasileirão
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