Santos retire club legend's shirt number until promoted back to Brazil's top flight

A match-issued Pele Santos jersey from 1956 on sale at an auction in June 2023.
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Brazilian giants Santos were relegated for the first time in their 111-year history when they lost 2-1 at home to Fortaleza earlier this week thanks to a 50-yard Juan Lucero wonder goal.

It triggered a fierce backlash, with fans seen burning cars in the street post-match. Santos have won eight domestic titles and are thought to be the highest-scoring team in football, boasting stars such as Neymar, Robinho, Coutinho and Carlos Alberto.

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