Vasco player demands pay rise to stay and solve Diniz’s problem | OneFootball

Vasco da Gama is experiencing a decisive moment behind the scenes involving one of the most versatile players in its squad. With his contract set to expire at the end of this year, full-back Puma Rodríguez is negotiating his stay, but the agreement hinges on a specific financial condition. According to information from the portal ge, the athlete’s representatives are seeking a salary increase to sign the new deal, taking advantage of the moment when he has become essential to the team.

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With an eye on the 2026 World Cup

The negotiation has taken on new dimensions due to the tactical importance the Uruguayan has assumed in this final stretch and the upcoming calendar. Puma’s agents argue that 2026 is a World Cup year, and the player wants to stay at the club, where he is happy and well-adapted, but with greater financial recognition. Vasco has already made an official offer and now the parties are discussing the final figures. The backstage trend is that a deal will be finalized as early as December.

The management views the renewal positively, not only for his technical quality but also for his demonstrated commitment. The club values the athlete’s effort, who, during the last two FIFA dates, endured long flights to return straight from the Uruguay national team and take the field for the Cruz-Maltino the next day, showing total dedication to the project.

The “Puma Protocol” on Vasco’s left side

While discussing his salary, Puma will have a tough and vital mission on the field. With the confirmed injury of Lucas Piton, the so-called “Puma Protocol” will be activated once again. The right-back by trade will be improvised on the left for the final stretch of the season, including the crucial semifinal of the Copa do Brasil.

Fernando Diniz chose the Uruguayan over the specialists in the position, Victor Luís and Leandrinho. The coach considers Puma a more complete player, highlighting his height, speed, and goal-scoring instinct (he has 8 goals and 8 assists in 115 games for the club). He has already played in this improvised role against Ceará, Flamengo, Bahia, and Cruzeiro, during which the team remained unbeaten, earning the full confidence of the coaching staff to be the emergency solution in the absence of the starter.

Puma is an important player in Vasco’s squad – Photo: Celso Pupo/Fim de Jogo

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