Zé Rafael, who was dismissed by the coaching staff, is training separately and is considering going to court as well. The 33-year-old central midfielder, who is of Brazilian and Italian nationality, joined Santos FC in February 2025 and has a contract until the end of 2027. In the 2025/2026 season of the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, he has made 5 appearances, scoring 1 goal and providing 1 assist. His market value is currently listed by Transfermarkt as €1.50m.