ESPN News ServicesDec 7, 2025, 07:53 PM ETEmailPrintOpen Extended ReactionsSAO PAULO -- Santos and Neymar secured survival in Brazil's Serie A on Sunday with a 3-0 win over Cruzeiro, and the 33-year-old soccer star later confirmed he will undergo surgery on his left knee. Playing its last league match of the season, Santos, which achieved a global following with all-time great Pelé, avoided what would have been the club's second relegation in club history. Santos was relegated in 2023 for the first time almost a year after the death of Pelé. Neymar struggled to recover from a torn ACL in October 2023 sustained during a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. But he proved key for Santos in a successful fight to avoid relegation in the Brazilian championship after promotion last year. Neymar, who returned to Santos in January, was decisive for the club where he started his professional career.
