Neymar on his 'director' side at Santos: I bet Santos fans are happy | OneFootball

Santos went hard in the market to strengthen its squad.

And Neymar played a decisive role in that process. 

The likely final act of “executive” Neymar is expected to be making Philippe Coutinho’s signing official.

The No. 10 himself reflected on the “new” Santos that is taking shape.

"Man, I was thinking here... Whether it’s going to work out or not, I don’t know, but I’m happy, I am. And I bet Santos’ fans are too. Let’s go, Peixão!"

The first player recommended by Neymar was defensive midfielder Arthur, who was negotiating the termination of his contract with Juventus.

A signing that only moved forward after NR Sports, the company run by his father, stepped in to pay off the transfer ban that was preventing new registrations at Peixe.

Then came the arrivals of Rodinei and Lima (the only one who joined on loan).

Neymar was once again key to the arrival of Everton Cebolinha.

He did not take part in the talks, but his presence at the club was decisive in convincing the then-Flamengo forward to accept Santos’ offer. 

A friend of Neymar’s since they played for Brazil’s U-17 team in 2008, Coutinho has still not been officially announced.

But his arrival — which could happen after the transfer window closes this Friday — is seen as certain. He is even already at CT Rei Pelé to finalize the last formalities.

His next goal will be to recover from his right thigh injury so he can play alongside Arthur, Cebolinha and Coutinho, all former Brazil teammates.

The most optimistic forecast points to three more weeks of recovery.

After taking 10 of the last 12 points in the Brasileirão, Peixe will be back in action in the competition this Saturday (12).

The team currently sits 13th with 32 points and will host Cruzeiro (6th) at Vila. 

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

📸 LUIS ACOSTA - AFP or licensors