João Schmidt starts 2026 in form at Santos, a pillar in Vojvoda’s side | OneFootball

João Schmidt has begun 2026 in fine form for Santos, establishing himself as a mainstay in Juan Pablo Vojvoda’s team after regaining his place.

Santos open their campaign on Saturday aiming to sustain the momentum that kept them up in the Brasileirão and to secure a Copa Sudamericana berth.

Schmidt impressed during the late 2025 surge, enjoying a brief scoring run. He netted two goals across the final three rounds, which proved vital in avoiding a drop to Série B.

In that spell, Santos won three straight and finished the year upbeat, particularly in midfield. The No 5 forged a solid partnership with Willian Arão, built on constant communication.

"João and I also talked to understand how he likes to play. I think it is very much about understanding the characteristics of the player next to you," said Willian Arão, speaking to ge.

"It was about telling João how he likes to receive. If I go here, you close there. I prefer to attack this space, play on this or that side. We keep adjusting and getting to know our team-mates."

Schmidt is expected to start on Saturday at 16:00, Brasília time, against Novorizontino at Vila Belmiro in the first round of the Campeonato Paulista.

Source: Globo.com