How the Corinthians derby lifted Barreal’s status at Santos | OneFootball

Álvaro Barreal has begun 2026 as a cornerstone at Santos, his rise traced to last October’s derby win over Corinthians at Vila Belmiro.

According to Globo.com, Santos bought the Argentine permanently despite him not hitting the loan target of playing more than 30 minutes in 65% of matches. The 15 October clássico was a key marker in that shift.

Under Juan Pablo Vojvoda, Santos beat Corinthians 3-1 in what was possibly their best display, and Barreal scored a long-range strike after taking Neymar’s advice. He also delivered an assist from a corner, Zé Rafael heading in during the opening minutes.

Buoyed by that performance, he finished the Brasileirão as Santos’ top scorer with nine goals. A paperwork delay meant his permanent deal was only confirmed after the first round of the Paulistão.

This year he has completed 90 minutes against Palmeiras and Guarani. He lost the ball that led to Palmeiras’ winner in the derby, but scored in the 1-1 draw in Campinas, where Santos conceded at the final kick. With his account open for 2026, he is a Santos hope for Thursday’s meeting with Corinthians at Vila Belmiro, 19:30 Brasília time, in the fourth round of the Paulistão.

Source: Globo.com