Gabigol emerges as Santos’ leading figure in Neymar’s absence | OneFootball

Gabriel Barbosa has taken centre stage for Santos in early 2026, his brace in the draw with Mirassol reinforcing that rise. Globo.com reports that the No 9 is filling the void left by Neymar for now.

In 10 appearances this year he has six goals and two assists, eight direct goal contributions near one per game. He is the club's leading scorer with double the next best, and sits second for assists behind Igor Vinicius on three. Neymar has two goals in three outings, with Thaciano on three as the nearest challenger.

Barbosa has been involved in nearly 40% of Santos' 21 goals in 2026, 13 in the Paulistão and eight in the Brasileirão. His numbers have risen in recent weeks despite a fluctuating side, including a quarter-final exit in the state competition and an ongoing search for rhythm in the league.

Against Vasco he was a substitute and did not come on in the win that had Neymar starting.

He then partnered Neymar versus Novorizontino and Velo Clube, while the No 10 was rested on Tuesday and is expected to return for Sunday's derby with Corinthians. Across his last three outings, against Mirassol, Novorizontino and Velo Clube, he produced four goals and two assists.

Beyond the numbers, Barbosa has taken on-field leadership, remonstrating with officials, demanding standards and urging team-mates when two down on Tuesday. His double helped avert defeat and eased the mood before the clássico.

Santos face Corinthians at 16:00 Brasília time on Sunday at Vila Belmiro, approaching the match from mid-table rather than under early relegation pressure.

Source: Globo.com