Neymar has helped Santos to escape relegation
On the night of Sunday, December 7, 2025, when Santos desperately needed calm, courage, and a little bit of joy, a heart-warming and hilarious exchange between Neymar and a devoted fan helped set the tone for what would become a season-saving victory.
Moments before kickoff against Cruzeiro, a match Santos had to win to avoid dropping back to Serie B, Neymar was warming up near the touchline when a supporter shouted a joke that echoed around Vila Belmiro.
“Neymar, take my knee! Here for you!” the fan yelled, referencing Neymar’s meniscus injury that has troubled him for months.
Neymar, never one to miss a playful moment, turned with a grin and fired back:
“I need both.”
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Without hesitation, the fan raised his hands and shouted: “Take both, it’s okay.”
The entire section behind him burst into laughter, including Neymar, who shook his head and clapped toward the stands. For a team living through months of tension, it was a rare moment of levity.
Minutes later, Neymar channelled that energy into a fearless performance, playing through pain as Santos powered to a 3–0 victory, thanks to Thaciano’s brace and João Schmidt’s strike.
The win lifted the club to safety, capping a night full of emotion, relief and unforgettable moments.
Watch the video below:
FKA/AE
