Santos FC is gearing up for the 2025 season amid significant changes, both on and off the field. After returning to Brazil's top league, the club is focused on strengthening its roster and preparing strategically for the upcoming matches.
One of the most notable developments is the return of star player Yeferson Soteldo, who has been highlighted as the team's primary reinforcement for the new season. During the preseason training, which began on January 4 at the CT Rei Pelé, Coach Pedro Caixinha has emphasized the importance of intense workouts and tactical drills.
With the new season approaching, Santos FC is facing challenges related to player transfers and the retention of key players. Several individuals, including President Marcelo Teixeira, are aware of the mounting pressures from fans and the media to bring new talents to the club. While the president has acknowledged the fans' desire for new signings, he reiterated the club's strategic approach to player acquisitions. "The speed of negotiations is normal... We want players who come to add weight and quality to the team," said Teixeira, reinforcing the club’s commitment to making calculated decisions rather than rushing just to satisfy immediate demands.
The team's training sessions have already kicked off with the existing roster, minus players affected by illness. A gastrointestinal virus has sidelined some key members, such as Hyan and Luan Peres, as they recover from severe symptoms. The coaching staff is utilizing this time to work closely with the available players, ensuring they are prepared for their first match against Mirassol on January 16.
Despite the lack of immediate new signings, President Teixeira is hopeful about the club's direction. His decision to let go of several managerial figures—Alexandre Gallo, Marcelo Fernandes, and goalkeeper coach Arzul—has been met with approval by some analysts. Journalist Fábio Sormani noted, "The day started well, Santos dismissed Gallo, Arzul, and the 'Presuntinho', it was what everyone was waiting for," reflecting the sentiment among many supporters for change.
The focus now shifts to the club's performance on the field. Santos FC will participate not only in the Paulista Championship but also aims to improve its standing as it navigates financial difficulties. These constraints pose challenges for the recruitment of new players. The prospect of moving to a Sociedade Anônima do Futebol (SAF) structure is being discussed as a potential pathway for recovery and stability.
Throughout January, Santos FC’s schedule is packed, with numerous training sessions and competitive games. The coaching staff is hard at work clarifying tactical roles and ensuring athletes are fit optimally for the intensity of matches. Current training routines are set to include two daily sessions leading up to key fixtures, aimed at refining technical and tactical capabilities.
Looking at the competitive aspect, the club is placed alongside familiar opponents like Bragantino, Guarani, and Portuguesa within its group, with the immediate goal of showcasing strength from the onset of the season.
With the first match against Mirassol less than two weeks away, the urgency to finalize any outstanding player agreements and solidify the strategy cannot be overstated. The Santos FC community is buzzing with anticipation, hoping to see their club return to prominence under Coach Caixinha's guidance and the new team structure.
The road to recovery for Santos FC may be steep, but with strategic planning and dedicated training, the club stands poised to show signs of rejuvenation as it welcomes the challenges of the 2025 season.