The Gossip

Version 1: Following their first-ever relegation in their 111-year history, supporters of the Brazilian club Santos took to the streets in riotous behavior. The team’s descent to the second division was sealed with a 2-1 defeat against Fortaleza in their final match of the Brazilian Serie A season on 7 December. What began as tears of disappointment soon escalated into acts of violence, with fans setting ablaze cars and buses, and engaging in clashes with law enforcement officers.

Santos, one of Brazil’s most accomplished clubs, boasts a prestigious list of alumni that includes legendary figures such as Pele and Neymar Jr. The coastal city team were one of three clubs, along with Sao Paulo and Flamengo, never to have been relegated from Brazil’s top flight but a woeful run of five games without a victory saw them drop to 17th in the standings with 43 points. In addition to Pele and Neymar, Santos has also nurtured talents like Robinho and Rodrygo.

Neymar conveys a heartfelt message. Neymar shared photographs of himself from his tenure at Santos, accompanied by the caption: “Santos, forever Santos.” In addition to Neymar, Rodrygo, the talented player from Real Madrid, expressed his solidarity on Instagram. Having emerged from the youth system of the Brazilian club before departing in 2019, he stated, “I will remain loyal to Santos, regardless of whether the ball finds the net or not, even if the stadium falls silent, even if the revered legacy diminishes, and even if triumph seems distant. Santos will always reside within me, whether the path is lengthy or arduous, ingrained in my heart and soul, resonating through my chants and held within my palms.”