Alex Santana named in Corinthians squad for first time in 2026 for Vasco clash | OneFootball

Alex Santana has been named in Corinthians' squad for the first time this season, for Sunday's Brasileirão round 13 clash with Vasco da Gama at Neo Química Arena, kick-off 16:00.

According to Meu Timao, the 30-year-old returned to full training with the squad after Fernando Diniz arrived. Having come back from a loan at Grêmio in January, he had been left out by then coach Dorival Júnior and trained at separate times.

The club confirmed his reintegration on the 13th. He was registered for the Copa do Brasil but was not selected for the tie against Barra on Tuesday because he lacked match fitness. He cannot feature in the Libertadores group stage, with changes only permitted in the knockouts.

Signed in 2024 for around two million euros, approximately R$ 12 million at the time, from Athletico-PR, Santana has made 37 appearances for Corinthians, 17 as a starter, and scored two goals. He was part of the 2025 Paulista title-winning squad.

After losing his place under Dorival last season, he was loaned mid-year to Grêmio, where he played 10 matches before dropping out of contention late in 2025. His last official appearance was on 4 October 2025, when he came on 25 minutes into the second half in a 1-0 win over Red Bull Bragantino in the league.

For the Vasco game he will be among the substitutes, providing cover for Allan, Breno Bidon, André Luiz and Rodrigo Garro, who start. Raniele will play at right-back with Matheuzinho suspended.

Source: Meu Timao