Neymar has been named in Santos’ squad for the Copa do Brasil quarter-final against Palmeiras, but doubts remain over whether he will actually play after he did not travel with the team initially.

Neymar named in Santos squad but mystery deepens before Palmeiras showdown

Neymar has been included in Santos’ squad for the huge Copa do Brasil quarter-final against Palmeiras, but uncertainty over his involvement has taken another unexpected twist.

The Brazilian superstar was named among the players available for the first-leg clash after training normally with the squad ahead of the game.

However, Neymar reportedly did not travel with his teammates when Santos initially left for São Paulo.

Neymar officially included in Santos squad

Santos named Neymar in their 25-man group for the quarter-final, raising hopes that the No.10 could feature in one of the club’s biggest matches of the season.

The forward had taken part in the final training session at CT Rei Pelé and was considered physically available for selection.

His inclusion represented a significant change after coach Cuca had previously admitted that Neymar’s participation remained uncertain.

Neymar does not travel with the team

Despite being named in the squad, Neymar reportedly did not travel with the main Santos delegation.

That immediately created fresh speculation that he could still be left out of the final matchday squad.

However, Santos have kept the door open for Neymar to join the group separately on the day of the match.

A similar situation has happened before, meaning his absence from the initial journey does not automatically rule him out.

Artificial pitch remains major concern

The biggest issue continues to be the artificial playing surface at Palmeiras’ stadium.

Neymar has previously spoken openly about his concerns over artificial pitches, particularly because of the additional impact they can place on the knees and joints.

Santos are therefore weighing the importance of the quarter-final against the risk of exposing their biggest star to a surface he has repeatedly criticised.

Suspension risk adds another complication

Neymar is also carrying two yellow cards in the Copa do Brasil.

Another booking could rule him out of the second leg at Vila Belmiro, giving Cuca another reason to carefully consider how and when to use him.

Some reports in Brazil expect Neymar to be available, while others suggest he could still miss the match entirely.

Santos keep Palmeiras guessing

For now, Santos have not revealed their final decision.

Neymar is officially in the squad, has trained normally and remains eligible to play, but his unusual travel situation has ensured the mystery continues right up to kick-off.

Whether Neymar starts, appears from the bench or is left out altogether has now become one of the biggest questions surrounding the Copa do Brasil quarter-final.