Cuca surprised by Gabigol's Cruzeiro return comments, avoids discussing striker's form

Santos coach Cuca said he was surprised by Gabigol's comments about returning to Cruzeiro at the end of the season, stating he was unprepared to respond and preferred to speak with the player first. Gabigol, on loan at Santos until year's end, said staying was difficult due to the club's financial situation and that he still believes Cruzeiro, which owns his rights until 2028, is a project that will succeed. Cuca declined to discuss the striker's performance in Wednesday's Copa do Brasil elimination against Palmeiras. Gabigol is Santos' top scorer this season with 17 goals and seven assists in 39 matches. Palmeiras advanced to the semifinals after a 0-0 draw, where they will face Vasco.