Arão and Bontempo on gym work as Santos prioritise fitness | OneFootball

According to Diario Do Peixe, Santos continued their interseason programme at CT Rei Pelé on Friday 26, with Cuca's staff again prioritising physical conditioning before tactical drills.

Midfielders Willian Arão and Gabriel Bontempo were the notable absentees from the pitch, remaining in the gym for targeted strength work under the fitness department.

The club expect both to rejoin team training next week. From there, staff plan to increase ball work and step up tactical adjustments for the rest of the campaign.

Since returning from holidays, the squad have undergone fitness assessments, muscle strengthening and recovery work to raise their physical level during this match-free window.

João Schmidt, Gabriel Menino and Thaciano are in physical transition after muscle injuries and are gradually progressing on the grass at CT Rei Pelé.

Santos' next competitive match is on 16 July against Botafogo in the Campeonato Brasileiro, followed by Universidad Central of Venezuela on 21 July in the first leg of the Copa Sul-Americana play-offs, with the return set for 28 July at Vila Belmiro. The staff are studying the possibility of friendlies in Brazil to complement preparations.

Source: Diario Do Peixe