Sampaoli Demands Neymar Commitment and Defensive Reinforcements in Talks With Santos

Jorge Sampaoli is in advanced talks to return to Brazilian football, and he’s setting clear conditions before accepting the job. According to RedGol via ESPN Brasil, the former Chile and Argentina national team coach held initial talks with Santos FC, where he previously worked in 2019. While the club’s board expected to discuss salary and contract length, Sampaoli focused entirely on football matters — with Neymar at the center.

Currently sitting 18th in the Brasileirao table with just one point from three games, Santos is in urgent need of a turnaround. Sampaoli requested a full scouting report on the squad, prioritizing figures like Neymar, Yeferson Soteldo, Tiquinho Soares, and goalkeeper Gabriel Brazão.

Despite his recent failures — notably at Rennes, where he managed only three wins in ten matches — Sampaoli is looking for a fresh opportunity. His main concern is the defense, which he claims fails to meet the high-pressing standards his teams require. As a result, he demanded several reinforcements in that area. Offensively, he made no specific requests and emphasized his good relationship with Neymar, stating the star forward would be a guaranteed starter “as long as he trains properly.”

Sampaoli has asked for 48 hours to decide whether to take the job. If accepted, his return to Santos would represent another shot at redemption in a league where his tactical style has always sparked debate.