Robinho Junior Shines Despite Santos Derby Loss, While Controversies Surround His Father

Robinho Junior, like his father, emerged from the youth ranks of Santos FC and made his senior professional debut during the 2025-26 season. At the tender age of 17, his opportunities have been somewhat limited, featuring in nine league matches and recently earning his first start against rivals Palmeiras. Although Santos faced a 2-0 defeat in that match, the young forward displayed commendable technical ability and actively participated in the team’s offensive endeavors until he was substituted in the 65th minute.

Following the derby loss, Santos’ head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda praised Robinho Junior’s performance, stating, “I appreciated his first-half display, although we struggled with possession in the second half. He played a solid game, particularly considering it was his inaugural start. He has significant potential for growth. I encouraged him and expressed my belief that he will become a great player. He needs to focus on improving his statistics, assists, and goals, but he is on the right path.”

In a contrasting narrative, Robinho, the former Santos star, has faced severe legal repercussions since being convicted in 2017 for his involvement in the gang rape of an Albanian woman at a Milan nightclub in 2013. The sentence was upheld by the Italian Court of Cassation in January 2022. Robinho has been incarcerated at Tremembe prison, located 150 kilometers from São Paulo, since March 2024. Despite his claims of innocence, a recent appeal for release was rejected by Brazilian authorities, who voted 10-1 against his release. A previous ruling confirmed the transfer of his sentence from Italy to Brazil.

Justice Luiz Fux remarked on the matter, stating, “An appeal is only permissible when there is ambiguity or contradiction in the ruling, as per article 619 of the CPP. The defense’s arguments lack merit. The Supreme Court’s Plenary has unanimously determined that the principle of non-retroactivity does not apply in this case.”

In a separate development, Neymar, who rejoined his boyhood club in January, faces uncertainty regarding his contract’s renewal as Santos evaluates his performance throughout the year. Club president Teixeira commented on Neymar’s future, saying, “The Neymar project is not intended for just six months or a year; it aims for the 2026 World Cup. Santos recognized the investment needed for Neymar’s return, and both parties will assess the situation periodically. The evaluation at the time of his signing differs from the current assessment, and financial considerations will continue to be discussed. If both Santos and Neymar can find common ground, his continuation with the club will be confirmed. We have a strong mutual understanding, which we believe will lead to a resolution at the appropriate time.”

Brazil’s national team coach Carlo Ancelotti has also expressed his concerns regarding Neymar’s physical condition, suggesting that he may need to transition into a more central role, as he struggles to meet the demands of playing as a winger.