Santos lose Zé Rafael for Paulista opener, growing list of absentees | OneFootball

Santos has suffered another setback for the debut in the Paulista Championship. Midfielder Zé Rafael has developed conjunctivitis and will be absent for the game against Novorizontino, scheduled for this Saturday.

The club informed that Zé Rafael has already started treatment for his condition. The number 6 thus joins the extensive list of absentees for Santos in the match. The game kicks off this Saturday at 4 PM (Brasília time) at Vila Belmiro.

More Absences

In midfield, Santos is already without Neymar, who is recovering from knee meniscus surgery. Vojvoda is also unlikely to have Gabriel Bontempo available. The player underwent surgery to correct a deviated nasal septum and has only participated in one unrestricted training session with the team. Additionally, Victor Hugo, on loan to Santos from Flamengo, is set to leave for Atlético-MG.

In the attack, Santos also faces absences. The team is experiencing delays in the documentation process and is unlikely to register Barreal's new contract in time. He needs to be registered in the BID by 7 PM (Brasília time) this Friday. Meanwhile, Tiquinho Soares, with a calf strain in his left leg, is out.

Finally, Souza might also be absent. The left-back is very close to finalizing a move to Tottenham in England.

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Upcoming Santos Matches

Santos vs. Novorizontino (first round of the Paulista Championship) Date and time: 01/10 (Saturday), at 4 PM (Brasília time) Location: Vila Belmiro, in Santos (SP)

Palmeiras vs. Santos (second round of the Paulista Championship) Date and time: 01/14 (Wednesday), at 9:30 PM (Brasília time) Location: Arena Barueri, in Barueri (SP)

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