Cuca to widen options and test Miguelito in new roles at Santos | OneFootball

Cuca says he wants to broaden Miguelito’s use across the pitch at Santos while the Bolivian’s contract talks continue. According to Diario Do Peixe, the coach outlined the plan after the win over Atlético-MG.

Miguelito missed the last two matches due to muscle fatigue following Bolivia duty. He was named on the bench but remained unused against Atlético-MG.

The coach noted that Miguelito typically plays off the right on his left foot, similar to Robinho Jr and Barreal, and that a hamstring issue had kept him out. Cuca added that staff will look to try him in other roles to expand options and prepare him to feature.

The 20-year-old’s deal runs until 24 April 2027, which would allow a pre-contract from October. There was an early March meeting in which the club presented a sporting project, then the player’s camp sent a proposal and received a counter deemed well below their expectations. Talks are ongoing and expected to develop in the coming weeks, and he was the only loanee recalled to report back at CT Rei Pelé last year.

More mature this season, Miguelito played in eight of nine Paulistão matches and registered an assist against Velo Clube. He also featured in the first four Brasileirão fixtures.

He came close to a World Cup chance, but Bolivia’s defeat to Iraq ended that possibility.

Source: Diario Do Peixe