Santos FC has officially announced Portuguese coach Pedro Caixinha as the club’s new head coach, with a contract running until the end of 2026. The announcement was made on Monday, December 23, during a press conference where Santos also introduced Pedro Martins as the club’s new CEO. Caixinha, who was last at Red Bull Bragantino until October, was chosen to lead Santos after an extensive search for a coach capable of implementing a new philosophy and methodology for the team.
Following their decision not to renew the contract of Fábio Carille, despite his success in leading the club to the Série B title, Santos considered several candidates, including Luis Castro and Gustavo Alfaro, but those negotiations did not yield results. Caixinha emerged as the ideal choice, partly due to the strategic planning led by Pedro Martins. Martins, who was recently appointed CEO, played a key role in selecting Caixinha, emphasizing the need for alignment in vision and philosophy.
In the press conference, club president Marcelo Teixeira explained that the decision to appoint Caixinha was based on careful deliberation and the need for a cohesive strategy. He stated that the priority was to adopt a long-term vision that aligns with the club’s ambitions and identity.
Pedro Martins elaborated on the selection process, highlighting Caixinha’s understanding of the club’s objectives and his compatibility with Santos’ vision. Martins described their discussions as constructive and focused, adding that Caixinha’s appointment would now allow the club to move forward with pre-season plans, squad building, and ongoing negotiations.
Caixinha brings extensive coaching experience, having managed teams across Europe, North America, and South America, including União Leiria (Portugal), Santos Laguna (Mexico), Rangers (Scotland), Talleres (Argentina), and most recently Red Bull Bragantino. At Bragantino, he achieved remarkable milestones, such as two appearances in the Campeonato Paulista semifinals and the team’s best-ever performance in the Brasileirão, earning a spot in the 2024 CONMEBOL Libertadores. Over 124 matches with Bragantino, Caixinha recorded 50 wins, 38 draws, and 36 losses.
As Santos prepares for the 2025 season, the club’s leadership and fans are optimistic about Caixinha’s ability to bring stability and success. His experience, coupled with the strategic direction of Pedro Martins and Marcelo Teixeira, is expected to steer Santos towards renewed competitiveness in Brazilian football and on the international stage.