Davizinho inspired by Neymar, once dubbed David Luiz, as Santos newcomer rises | OneFootball

Santos forward Davi Fernandes, known as Davizinho, has broken into the first team and grew up idolising Neymar. According to Diario Do Peixe, he has signed a first professional deal to January 2029.

As a boy he was first dubbed David Luiz for his curly hair at four, a nickname he disliked. After a haircut, some neighbours began calling him Neymar.

He joined Flamengo at 10, then spent time at Volta Redonda without a contract before moving to Boavista-RJ from 13 to 16, where he captained the side and shone at the Brasil Soccer Cup. Santos wanted him immediately, but his family sought time to sort paperwork and school.

His father, Ricardo, played professionally, worked with Zico at CFZ and later went to Kashima Antlers. Through that link, Zico’s son Thiago Coimbra flagged the youngster to agent Leca. Davi signed a development deal in September 2024, valid until 2 September 2027.

He played for the Under-16s, then the Under-17s, but lost ground under Elder Campos and was put on a preliminary release list. Late in the Brasileiro Sub-17 he scored against Cruzeiro, faced Grêmio and assisted against Bragantino to stay.

Backed by former Under-20 coach Vinicius Marques, now a first-team assistant, he trained more with the seniors, was involved under Vojvoda and praised by Cuca and Cuquinha. Wearing 27, he came on in the 3-2 loss at Grêmio and the 3-1 win over Vitória in rounds 17 and 18. He can also play full-back and turns 18 in late July.

Source: Diario Do Peixe