Robinho Jr. at an impasse at Santos and could leave the club

Robinho Jr. at an impasse at Santos and could leave the club

Just one month after signing his contract renewal, young forward Robinho Jr., 18, finds himself in an uncertain situation at Vila Belmiro.

Having not taken the field for more than 30 days, the player has lost ground under coach Cuca, refuses to return to the under-20 team, and could end up leaving Peixe in the next transfer window.

The Coaching Staff’s Assessment

Despite an informal promise that he would get more minutes after the renewal (sealed on April 17), the reality has been different.

Cuca’s coaching staff believes the youngster is still not fully ready to make a difference and take on responsibility in the starting team.

• Last appearance: April 8, 2026, against Deportivo Cuenca, in the Copa Sudamericana.
• Playing time: The youngster has made only eight appearances all season.

Refusal to Return to the Youth Setup and Demand for a Career Plan

Even after being advised by football manager Elano to drop down to the under-20s in order to gain match fitness and stand out under the board’s watch, the player and his representatives rejected the idea.

His camp informed Santos that Robinho Jr. will not return to the youth setup unless there is a very well-structured career plan in place. The agents’ argument is that the forward already completed his development stage last year and should now establish himself in the professional squad, where he has been training regularly.

European Market on the Radar

With the situation at a standstill in Brazil, the player’s representatives have already started looking abroad. Curiously, the lack of games with the first team is seen as a factor that could “facilitate” a deal, since his market value would not be high, allowing for a transfer at more affordable figures.

• Inter Milan: The Italian club is interested in the forward and is monitoring the situation, although it has not submitted any official offer so far.