Arthur’s cautious exit becomes a costly Santos absence

Arthur’s cautious exit becomes a costly Santos absence
Santos will have to reshape their midfield for Thursday’s Brasileirão meeting with Flamengo after Arthur was ruled out with a right-hamstring injury sustained against São Paulo. The midfielder felt discomfort after a sprint early in the second half of the delayed 21st-round derby and was replaced shortly afterwards.

Arthur had initially framed his departure as a precaution. “I didn’t want to take a risk. I asked to come off,” he said after the match, adding that he hoped the injury would not be serious and that he might be available for Flamengo. Imaging later confirmed a muscle injury, however, ending that possibility and also ruling him out of the subsequent league match against Atlético-MG.

The reports converge on the immediate consequence: Arthur will begin physiotherapy and Santos must find an alternative in midfield. They differ over the longer outlook. Santos had not publicly specified the injury grade or a return date, while journalist Lucas Musetti, cited in one report, projected a return only in the final four rounds of the Brazilian championship.

Arthur’s absence comes as coach Cuca assesses several other selection issues before Flamengo visit Vila Belmiro. Rollheiser was expected to return after illness, while Gabigol and Luan Peres were also viewed as likely options. Neymar was continuing transition work and could be included, whereas Cebolinha was expected to miss the match because of a contractual restriction involving his former club.

Signed by Santos after leaving Juventus at the end of August, Arthur has made six appearances and registered one assist. His injury removes a recent arrival from a side preparing for a demanding pair of league matches.

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