Neymar Included in Santos Squad for Copa do Brasil Clash with Palmeiras Despite Artificial Turf Worries

Neymar has been named in the Santos squad for their upcoming Copa do Brasil quarter-final first leg against rivals Palmeiras. This selection comes despite ongoing concerns about the artificial pitch at Nubank Parque, where the match is scheduled to take place. The 34-year-old forward has previously expressed strong reservations about playing on synthetic surfaces due to his ankle issues.

Squad Announcement Confirms Neymar's Inclusion

The official squad list confirms Neymar will travel with Santos for Wednesday evening's Copa do Brasil fixture at Nubank Parque. His inclusion ends speculation that he might miss the match after a 1-1 draw with Mirassol over the weekend left doubts about his fitness. The decision follows long-standing worries about Neymar's ankle injuries, which have been aggravated by artificial turf in past games.

Coach Cuca's Cautious Approach

Santos head coach Cuca stated that the final decision on Neymar's participation involved the entire technical team. Speaking to ESPN Brazil, he said: "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."

Neymar's Criticism of Synthetic Turf

Neymar has openly criticized artificial pitches. After suffering an ankle injury against Atletico Mineiro last year, he vented on social media, calling synthetic turf "absolute s***." When asked about playing on the synthetic surface at Palmeiras' home ground, he responded: "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 has also described playing at Allianz as impossible and commented that smaller artificial pitches disturb players regardless of injury status. He favors natural grass venues like Morumbi, where he feels comfortable.

Growing Opposition to Artificial Surfaces Among Brazilian Players

Resistance against synthetic turf is increasing in Brazilian football. High-profile players such as Lucas Moura, Gabigol, Thiago Silva, and Neymar himself have campaigned against the use of artificial grass. Neymar said: "It is absurd that we have to discuss synthetic grass on our pitches."

Several major Brazilian stadiums currently use artificial turf, including Ligga Arena, Nilton Santos, Arena MRV, Arena Conda, and Pacaembu in Sao Paulo.

Santos Face a Challenging Schedule

Santos have a demanding week ahead, with a trip to face Corinthians in the Campeonato Brasileiro before returning home to host Palmeiras for the Copa do Brasil second leg at Vila Belmiro on September 2. Coach Cuca will likely manage Neymar's workload carefully to keep him fit and effective through this intense period.

• Match: Copa do Brasil quarter-final first leg
• Date: Wednesday evening (exact date not specified)
• Venue: Nubank Parque (artificial turf)
• Upcoming fixtures: Corinthians (Campeonato Brasileiro), Palmeiras (Copa do Brasil second leg)