Santos sign Philippe Coutinho after Neymar’s thigh injury setback | OneFootball

Santos have completed the signing of former Liverpool and Barcelona playmaker Philippe Coutinho as a free agent after Neymar sustained a right thigh injury. They are enduring a turbulent domestic campaign.

The 34-year-old arrives at Vila Belmiro in a return to one of Brazil’s historic giants. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the deal runs until the end of the year.

Neymar, who returned to Santos aiming to restore past glories, recently suffered a grade 2B injury to the rectus femoris in his right thigh. With him sidelined for a crucial stretch, the club moved quickly to recruit his childhood friend to remain competitive.

Coutinho dazzled at Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp before a record transfer to Barcelona, the Catalan club paying about $187m as they sought to replace Neymar after his switch to PSG. He struggled for a consistent role, prompting loan spells and a permanent move to Aston Villa.

Opportunities at Villa Park were limited under Unai Emery, leading Coutinho back to Brazil with Vasco da Gama to rediscover his spark away from European scrutiny. He scored one goal in three games there, but Santos believe his experience can steady the side.

Santos sit near the bottom of the table and face a genuine relegation threat, making every point vital. Coutinho’s arrival offers a timely lift as Neymar spends another spell on the sidelines.

Source: Goal.com

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