Why Santos chose Cuca to replace Vojvoda | OneFootball

Santos have moved swiftly to replace Juan Pablo Vojvoda with Cuca, prioritising on-field profile and familiarity with the club.

According to Globo.com, fewer than 12 hours separated Vojvoda’s exit and Cuca’s appointment. The board valued his knack for organising teams and improving individuals, qualities they felt had faded late in Vojvoda’s spell.

Executives believe the squad should sit higher in the table. Santos have six points from seven Brasileirão rounds and are close to the relegation zone.

Cuca’s familiarity is expected to ease his adaptation. Across previous spells he led Santos to the 2020 Conmebol Libertadores final.

Internally, the club discussed his 1989 conviction in Switzerland for coercion and a sexual act with a minor during a Grêmio tour before advancing talks.

The club does not seek to downplay the case, and views his stance as one of acknowledgement, including recognising the delay in addressing events from the 1980s. In January 2024, the Bern-Mittelland regional court annulled the sentence because he was tried in absentia without defence lawyers, a ruling that did not address the merits.

He read a letter, drafted with his wife and daughter, pledging to help make the world safer for women.

He has also worked at Atlético-MG. In 2023 he was hired by Corinthians but resigned after widespread supporter protests.

Opposition to his arrival has surfaced on social media. The club are not changing course at present. Cuca is expected to debut on Sunday at Mineirão against Cruzeiro in the Brasileirão.

Source: Globo.com