Vojvoda’s pick Nadson impresses Cuca and could gain a bigger role at Santos | OneFootball

Santos, under a Fifa transfer ban and short of funds, are leaning on the academy. According to Globo.com, 17-year-old Nadson could fill a first-team gap for Cuca.

A highly rated prospect, he debuted for the seniors earlier this year under Juan Pablo Vojvoda. Now back with the main squad, Cuca has said he will be important in the run-in.

The coach watched a Brasileirão Sub-20 game where Nadson starred on the left. He produced two assists and led a comeback thrashing of Botafogo.

The next day he featured in a training match against Osasco Sporting. In the senior defeat to Botafogo, he then came on for Miguelito after the break, ahead of Robinho Jr.

Nadson is a quick dribbler who can create on his own, traits Cuca wants for one v one situations. Previously, he viewed only Moisés as fitting that profile.

At Santos since the under-11s, he has often played above his age. Last season he featured for the under-17s and under-20s, and in the Paulista under-20 final against São Paulo he helped the team fight back before winning on penalties.

The hierarchy also note his attitude. After an ankle ligament strain in April sidelined him for just over a month, he asked to bolster the under-17s in the Brasileiro to regain rhythm and scored the winner against Atlético-GO.

He signed his first deal last year, days after turning 16, and is contracted until 23 January 2028.

Source: Globo.com