Pre-match outlook
- Model lean: Sao Paulo is the strongest pre-match signal before kickoff.
Sao Paulo vs Santos in Serie A. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 21 stage in the 2026 season. Kickoff is scheduled for 2026-07-29T20:00:00Z. The match will be played at Estadio Do MorumBIS in Sao Paulo. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Sao Paulo and Santos. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Serie ARecorded meetings: 32 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Juan Cuadrado confirmed interest from an MLS team, leading many to wonder whether he could end up as Lionel Messi's teammate at Inter Miami. Juan Cuadrado finds himself without a club after his one-year stint at Pisa in Italy’s Serie A came to an end on June 30, and Lionel Messi‘s Inter Miami have emerged as a possible suitor for the Colombian, after he confirmed he received an offer from MLS. Besides MLS, the 37-year-old player revealed in an interview with DSports that he also has offers from Mexico and a club in Europe. “There are offers from the United States, from Mexico, and one from Europe that isn’t confirmed yet, but there are talks… Right now I’m waiting on proposals, but for the moment I’m not ruling out the FPC (Professional Colombian Football),” Cuadrado revealed. While Cuadrado hasn’t revealed any of the clubs that have shown interest in him, Inter Miami could easily be one of the MLS sides in the mix for several reasons. The Colombian is currently a free agent, which would make any move straightforward from a contractual standpoint. Since he wouldn’t need to be signed as a Designated Player, the Herons wouldn’t have to touch their salary cap structure to fit him in — a detail that matters given how tightly Miami already manage their DP slots around Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and German Berterame. German Berterame celebrates a goal with Lionel Messi. (Getty Images) There’s also a clear on-field need he could fill. Facundo Mura, the Argentine right back Inter Miami signed as a free agent from Racing Club, has yet to find the level he showed during his time in Argentina. Cuadrado, who can also operate as a right-sided midfielder, would give Hoyos both direct competition for that spot and extra depth on the right flank, something the squad could use as the fixture list piles up. Cuadrado brings a wealth of experience Then there’s the experience factor. Cuadrado cuenta con muchos partidos con una alta carga de presión, having played in a Champions League final. There, he came on as a substitute for Juventus in the 2016-17 decider against Real Madrid, where they lost 1-4 in Cardiff. On the international stage, he featured for Colombia at two World Cups, 2014 and 2018, and across five editions of the Copa America, helping the team to third-place finishes in 2016 and 2021 over more than 110 caps for La Tricolor. None of that guarantees a move to Fort Lauderdale, but between the financial fit, the positional need, and the pedigree he’d bring to the dressing room, Inter Miami have plenty of reasons to keep an eye on Cuadrado’s situation as he weighs his options between MLS, Mexico, Europe and Colombia.
Fiorentina have made young Spanish defender Valde their eighth signing ahead of the Serie A season, in an €8m deal from Real Madrid. The post ‘From one to 10, I’d say 20!’ – Valde thrilled to clinch Fiorentina move from Madrid appeared first on SoccerNews.
Despite leading South Africa to the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time, Hugo Broos has decided to leave his position. The post South Africa announce Broos exit following historic World Cup campaign appeared first on SoccerNews.
Multiple Italian clubs have been hovering around Real Madrid talent Franco Mastantuono and now, there are signs he could be heading to the Serie A soon.Tuttomercatoweb report that the Argentine has be...
The late centre-back defined an era of Italian defending and his collection of honours is eternal proof of his classThere are very few players who become bywords for their position, who enjoy universal acclaim. But for anybody who watched football in the late 80s or early 90s, Franco Baresi was the central defender. He was unsurpassed, obviously the best in his position in the world, the definition of the art of the defending. The oddity is, he really wasn’t like very many other defenders at all.Baresi had just turned 19 when he won his first scudetto at Milan under Nils Liedholm. It was 1979 and Italian football was still dominated by the ideals of catenaccio. Most defences comprised a libero, two man-markers and, if you were lucky, an attacking left-back. But not Liedholm’s. The Swede was a pioneer in Serie A of zonal marking, and the idea that the game was not a series of physical battles but a question of space. Baresi was only 5ft 9in and a teenager. More traditional coaches might not have trusted him. But Liedholm saw an impeccable reader of the game, even at that age. Baresi was an ever-present, not only in the league but in the Coppa Italia and Uefa Cup as well. Continue reading...
Former defender had had surgery on pulmonary nodule‘The entire history of Milan is in tears,’ Serie A club saysThe former Milan and Italy defender Franco Baresi, one of the most recognisable players of the golden era of Italian football in the 1980s and 1990s, has died at the age of 66.“The entire history of AC Milan is in tears following the passing of Franco Baresi,” his former club said on Friday. “His example and integrity will be forever etched into the club’s DNA, just as his iconic No 6 shirt is.” Continue reading...
Neymar received a special tribute at Santos stadium with a bust and a statue, now turning alongside Pele as the two players to have specific tribute areas in the museum. Neymar’s legendary career is entering its final chapter following his recent retirement from the Brazilian national team, but his legacy at the club level is already set in stone. The superstar forward has officially been immortalized at Vila Belmiro Stadium, where Santos unveiled a dedicated museum exhibit featuring a custom bust and statue, placing him alongside all-time icon Pelé with a permanent tribute area. On Thursday, July 30, Santos inaugurated a newly designed wing honoring Neymar Jr. inside the Memorial das Conquistas (Memorial of Achievements), the museum located inside the club’s iconic stadium. The brand-new attraction showcases a bronze bust, a statue, and an autographed blue Santos No. 10 jersey. It was a landmark day for soccer fans worldwide and a deeply personal homecoming for the former Menino da Vila (“Village Boy“). Santos FC officially opened the dedicated space to celebrate the career of the idol long affectionately referred to by local supporters as the “Prince of the Vila.“ Renato Guedes, the lead sculptor behind the artwork, reflected on the challenge of capturing the essence of a living legend. “The intention was always not just to portray the athlete, but to portray the role model he is for the new generation, for the boys who dream of playing football and will see in him the benchmark of futebol arte (beautiful game),” Guedes stated in the club’s official website. Neymar expressed his gratitude in an emotional social media post following the ceremony: “Today I was caught by surprise… being honored by your beloved team is incredible. Being part of the history of Santos is an honor! I thank God first and foremost, my family, and the entire Santista nation that supported me from my first steps in SANTOS FC’s youth academy!“ Os bastidores da inauguração do espaço dedicado a Neymar Jr no Memorial das Conquistas. Uma homenagem especial ao nosso Príncipe da Vila! 🔟✨ pic.twitter.com/sDV2iqiQgh— Santos FC (@SantosFC) July 30, 2026 He closed his message by reaffirming his devotion to the club that launched his career. “We’ve had many emotional and unforgettable moments… but we’ve also had bad times, and all of you were by my side. I’m a fan on the pitch, fighting, battling, and giving everything I can at every moment; I’ve made mistakes countless times and I’ll make mistakes again (hopefully not), but always wanting what’s best for Peixão! Thank you, SANTISTA NATION, for everything,” he wrote. Engraved at the base of the bust are Neymar’s major achievements with Santos, including three consecutive Campeonato Paulista titles (2010–2012), the 2010 Copa do Brasil, and the 2011 Copa Libertadores. During his initial run with O Peixe, he also won the 2011 FIFA Puskas Award, scored 136 goals in 225 official matches, and secured the largest transfer fee in club history via his historic €88 million move to FC Barcelona. The Prince joins the King On its official website, Santos formally dubbed Neymar the Príncipe da Vila (“Prince of the Village“), the title bestowed upon him as the heir to O Rei Pele. While the museum features team exhibits honoring historic eras like the 1960s “Os Santásticos” squad and the “Sereias da Vila” women’s team, Neymar and Pele stand as the only two individual players with dedicated personal galleries inside the facility. Pelé’s legendary gallery, known as “The King’s Space,” houses iconic memorabilia including game-worn jerseys, boots, personal trophies, and a symbolic crown and scepter honoring his status as soccer royalty. It also features his personal locker, which has remained locked and untouched since his final match for Santos in 1974, one of the most sacred sites at Vila Belmiro.
Following his latest announcement, discussions have emerged over how one of the nation's greatest players could be honored after bringing an extraordinary international career to an end. Neymar’s remarkable journey with Brazil may have reached its conclusion on the pitch, but another memorable chapter could still be waiting. Following his latest announcement, discussions have emerged over how one of the nation’s greatest players could be honored after bringing an extraordinary international career to an end. While his focus now remains on club soccer, the conversation surrounding his legacy continues to grow. The Brazilian star leaves behind a career filled with unforgettable moments, individual records and emotional highs and lows. His influence stretched across more than a decade, helping shape an era for the national team while becoming one of the most recognizable faces in world soccer. The 34-year-old officially ended any remaining speculation after Santos defeated Universidad Central 4-2 in the Copa Sudamericana. Speaking after the match, Neymar made it clear that he has no intention of returning to represent Brazil following the country’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup. “My time with the national team is over. I made history, I was very happy, I gave my blood, my life, I always fought for the yellow jersey, but now I don’t want to anymore,” Neymar said. His comments reinforced the emotional message he first delivered after Brazil’s 2-1 defeat to Norway in the World Cup round of 16. That match saw Neymar come off the bench to score a stoppage-time penalty, a goal that ultimately became the final strike of his international career. Brazil prepares special farewell Although Neymar insists his international days are finished, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is reportedly considering organizing an official farewell match to celebrate his contribution to the Selecao. According to O Globo, discussions are underway, although no date has been established because the forward remains an active player at club level. The proposal remains in its early stages, but it reflects the enormous respect Neymar commands within Brazilian soccer. Rather than allowing his final appearance to come in the disappointment of World Cup elimination, the federation hopes supporters could eventually have the chance to celebrate his achievements on a dedicated occasion. Neymar Jr #10 of Brazil reacts after the 1-2 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. Career filled with records Neymar’s international résumé places him among the greatest players ever to represent Brazil. After making his senior debut in 2010, he accumulated 130 appearances and scored a record 80 goals, surpassing Pelé to become the country’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer. He also became only the second Brazilian after Pele to score in four different FIFA World Cups, finding the net during the 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026 editions. Those accomplishments came despite injuries repeatedly interrupting his biggest tournaments. His international journey also included one of Brazilian soccer’s most emotional victories. Neymar captained the national side to its historic first Olympic gold medal at the Rio 2016 Games, scoring during the final before converting the decisive penalty in the shootout against Germany.
Carlo Ancelotti shared his honest thoughs on Neymar's retirement from Brazil national team, as well as the decision include him in the 2026 World Cup roster: "It was the right decision to call him up." Neymar has officially announced his retirement from international soccer 16 years after making his senior debut in 2010, bringing a defining era in Brazil sports history to a close. Following the news, head coach Carlo Ancelotti reflected on the superstar’s decision to walk away, while defending his choice to include the veteran in his final World Cup roster: “It was the right decision to call him up.“ The 2026 World Cup was always envisioned as Neymar’s final international objective, an ambition so driving that he returned to Santos to escape the European spotlight and rebuild his match fitness. But a heartbreaking Round of 16 exit brought a abrupt end to his time with the Selecao, ushering in a changing of the guard as Ancelotti turns his focus toward a total program rebuild ahead of 2030. Speaking Wednesday with ESPN’s Pedro Ivo Almeida, Ancelotti made it clear that a new chapter has arrived for the five-time World Cup champions: “I think that players like Neymar, who already commented yesterday, and with all due respect to his decision. I believe that in history, one generation ends and another has to come, and it has to be better than the last one.” Addressing Neymar specifically, Ancelotti offered a candid assessment of the frustration surrounding the forward’s physical condition heading into the tournament, particularly the lingering injuries that kept him sidelined for the group stage. “The only thing that bothered me is that Neymar could have prepared himself better during that lead-up period. He could have been ready for game one instead of game four. That was the only disappointing part.“ Neymar Jr #10 of Brazil applauds fans Arriving at training camp with muscle discomfort, an MRI revealed a Grade 2 calf strain that ruled Neymar out of Brazil‘s first two group matches against Morocco and Haiti. Still, Ancelotti praised the star’s professionalism, noting his attitude “was perfect,” highlighting his focus on rehab, support for younger teammates, and work ethic in training. “I think he didn’t contribute on a technical level as it was hoped he could, because he couldn’t. But, in terms of attitude, it was a very positive attitude. I have a lot of affection for him, I thanked him for his attitude, for his behavior, and I think it was the right decision to include him on the 26-man roster,” Ancelotti concluded, maintaining that bringing the veteran to North America was no mistake. Ancelotti hints at further roster turnover Since taking charge in May 2025, Ancelotti has demonstrated a commitment to reshaping Brazil’s national team pool, blending emerging domestic talent with experienced veterans. With Neymar moving on, several other longtime pillars are approaching the end of their international careers; while a select few will be retained to provide veteran leadership, others will be phased out entirely. While developing young talent remains the cornerstone of the 2030 cycle, Ancelotti confirmed that a select group of leaders will remain in the fold: “Some of these will be there, obviously. Marquinhos, for example. Alisson, we’ll see. Obviously, we have to look at the young goalkeepers, because there are young goalkeepers who are already playing in the Campeonato Brasileiro, and other very young ones who are playing who could be there.” When asked specifically about stalwarts like Casemiro, Danilo, and Alex Sandro, whose international careers may have reached their natural conclusion in North America, Ancelotti didn’t mince words. “I think so. It is a period that is coming to an end. Obviously, we have to thank all of them, and I have a lot of affection for all of them. But I think the idea that a player over 30 is done means that we have to think about the future,” the Italian stated.
Sankhoun Diawara has joined AC Milan from Troyes, and the versatile 20-year-old defender is obviously very excited to be at his new club. Getting to know Sankhoun Diawara 👋 pic.twitter.com/kYZJi2NVWA — AC Milan (@acmilan) July 29, 2026 The post Young defender Sankhoun Diawara excited to have joined AC Milan (Video) appeared first on SoccerNews.
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