RIO DE JANEIRO, Aug. 19 -- Former Villarreal and Brazil international striker Nilmar is set to make his debut for Santos on Sunday after being included in their match-day squad for the away clash with Coritiba.

The 33-year-old was named as a replacement for veteran center-forward Ricardo Oliveira, who is suffering a back injury, Santos said in a statement on their official website on Saturday.

Nilmar, who has not played for more than a year, signed an 18-month contract with the eight-time Brazilian Serie A champions in July.

The striker rose to prominence during an impressive spell with Spain's Villarreal from 2009 to 2024, but he has since suffered serious injuries to both knees.

He has been capped 24 times for Brazil's national team, scoring nine goals.

Santos are currently third in Brazil's top flight standings, 11 points behind leaders Corinthians.