SAO PAULO — Santos Football Club has successfully earned its place back in Brazil’s premier soccer division for next season, a moment eagerly anticipated by fans who hope to see star player Neymar return to the venue that once celebrated legends like Pelé.

In a significant match on Monday night, Santos achieved a 2-0 victory against Coritiba, effectively clinching their promotion to Serie A. Wendel scored the first goal in the 20th minute, followed by Romulo Otero extending the lead with a second goal shortly before halftime in the 41st minute.

As the leaders of Serie B, Santos currently holds 68 points across 36 games, securing one of the four available promotion spots.

Santos’ president, Marcelo Teixeira, announced early Tuesday that he is willing to await a decision from Neymar and his current club, Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia, regarding the player’s future. Neymar, 32, is still under contract until June.

Back in 2011, a young Neymar was instrumental in leading Santos to victory in their first Copa Libertadores title in 48 years. He departed the club in 2013 when he signed with Barcelona.

“We are being clear and straightforward; his father and team are well informed,” Teixeira stated to reporters at Vila Belmiro Stadium in Santos, located just outside of São Paulo. “They know me and they know Santos too. We must wait due to his active contract.”

Teixeira also invited Neymar to attend Santos’ upcoming game against CRB on Sunday, signaling that a victory in this match would crown Santos as the Serie B champions.

“The box is available for him as always. Should he be in Brazil, we will extend a warm welcome,” Teixeira confirmed.

While recovering from an ACL injury, Neymar has consistently shared media showing him watching Santos’ matches and engaging with team players. However, Al-Hilal revealed on November 6 that Neymar is currently sidelined again due to a muscle injury.