Alex Santana to miss Corinthians’ Copa do Brasil opener against Barra-SC | OneFootball

Alex Santana has been registered for the Copa do Brasil after being reintegrated to the squad at Fernando Diniz’s request. The 30-year-old will not feature in Corinthians’ opener against Barra-SC at the Ressacada at 21:30 on Tuesday.

According to Meu Timao, he is not yet in playing condition and his omission is a technical choice by Diniz’s staff.

Signed from Athletico-PR in 2024 for about two million euros, he has made 37 appearances for Corinthians, 17 as a starter, and scored two goals. He was part of the 2025 Paulista title-winning squad.

He lost ground after Dorival Júnior arrived in April 2025, leading to a loan to Grêmio in June. He played 10 times there, with his last outing on four October 2025 in a 1-0 win over Red Bull Bragantino in the Campeonato Brasileiro.

Back at CT Dr. Joaquim Grava, he was separated from the first team by Dorival and trained at different times alongside centre-back Renato, while the board sought a move. Interest emerged but no talks advanced.

He is eligible for the Copa do Brasil and the Brasileiro, and for the Libertadores only if Corinthians reach the knockouts. Since Monday he has trained with the main group again but was not selected for the goalless draw with Vitória on Saturday. Diniz has options in his role, including Raniele, Allan, Matheus Pereira, André Luiz, André Carrillo, Breno Bidon and Charles, so Santana must regain rhythm to earn a place.

Source: Meu Timao