Robinho Júnior, whose full name is Robson de Souza Júnior, is a young talent in Brazilian football gaining attention in the youth ranks and now in the professional squad of Santos Futebol Clube. Born on December 17, 2007, in Santos, São Paulo, he is the son of former player Robinho, a Brazilian and international football icon known for his stints at clubs like Santos, Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Milan. At 17, Robinho Júnior already shows skill and potential for a promising career, primarily playing as a left-sided attacker. In 2025, marked by his integration into the first team, he has been praised by coaches, teammates, and fans despite facing personal and family challenges.
This article explores Robinho Júnior’s journey from childhood to the latest updates in October 2025. Based on reliable sources such as match reports, interviews, and sports analyses, we’ll see how he is building his identity in the sport, overcoming the shadows of the past, and attracting interest from European clubs.
Childhood and Family Influence
Robinho Júnior grew up in a football-centric environment. His father, Robinho, was a major figure in Brazilian football during the 2000s and 2010s, winning titles like the 2007 Copa América with Brazil and the Spanish La Liga with Real Madrid. However, the family faced challenges: Robinho was convicted of gang rape in a 2013 case in Italy and has been serving a sentence in Brazil since 2024. This situation deeply affected the family, including young Robson Júnior.
From an early age, Robinho Júnior showed a passion for football. He started playing on the streets of Santos and soon joined the youth ranks of Santos FC, the same club where his father rose to fame. To shield him from negative comments related to his father’s case, the club adopted the nickname “Juninho” during his time in the youth teams. This measure helped protect him, allowing him to focus on his technical and psychological development.
In recent interviews, Robinho Júnior highlighted the support of his family and club in overcoming these challenges. “My father always encouraged me to play with joy, no matter what,” he said after a training session in July 2025. Neymar, a close family friend and former teammate of Robinho at Santos, has been a key figure, mentoring him and aiding his integration into the first team.
Robinho Júnior’s childhood was marked by intense training and watching his father’s games. He frequented the CT Rei Pelé, Santos’ training center, where he absorbed lessons from professionals. By age 10, he was already considered a prospect, with skills like quick dribbling and game vision reminiscent of his father’s style. However, the club emphasized gradual development to avoid excessive pressure.
Youth Career at Santos
Robinho Júnior officially joined Santos’ youth system at age 8 in 2016. His progress was steady, moving through the under-11, under-13, and under-15 teams. In these stages, he stood out in regional and national tournaments, frequently scoring and assisting. In 2023, at 15, he was promoted to the under-17 team, where he began to draw more attention.
In 2024, he competed in the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior, known as Copinha, where Santos reached the quarterfinals. Robinho Júnior scored two goals in the tournament, showing maturity beyond his years. His performance led to a promotion to the under-20 team in early 2025. That year, he played in two more Copinha matches, scoring one goal and contributing to the team’s campaign.
Santos invested in a personalized development plan for him, including physical, tactical, and psychological training. “He’s a quick learner with an impressive work ethic,” a youth coach commented in February 2025. This approach helped refine his talent, preparing him for the leap to professional football.
During this phase, Robinho Júnior faced inevitable comparisons to his father. To mitigate this, the club identified him as “Juninho” in reports and lineups, avoiding direct associations. This strategy succeeded, allowing him to build his own reputation.
Professional Debut and First-Team Integration
The year 2025 marked Robinho Júnior’s transition to professional football. In February, he was registered for the Campeonato Paulista, signaling confidence from then-coach Pedro Caixinha (who later left the club). His official debut came in July during a friendly against Flamengo, where he entered in the second half and provided a decisive assist.
Days later, on July 19, Robinho Júnior made his Brasileirão debut, coming on in the final minutes against Corinthians. The crowd chanted his name, and he stirred attention by saying, “It’s my family duty to win.” The quote went viral, showcasing his confident personality.
In August, with the arrival of new coach Juan Vojvoda, Robinho Júnior gained more opportunities. He was included in several matchday squads, including classics. In September, he renewed his contract until April 2027, with an automatic extension to 2029 upon turning 18. The deal includes a R$644 million release clause, reflecting the value Santos places on him.
His integration into the first team was aided by Neymar, who “adopted” him in gratitude for the support Robinho gave him during his own youth days. Photos of them training together became iconic, symbolizing the continuity of generations at Santos.
Recent Performances in the 2025 Season
Throughout 2025, Robinho Júnior accumulated valuable minutes in the Brasileirão. In October, he played in the final minutes of a 1-1 draw against Grêmio in the 26th round, helping spark the attack. His speed and dribbling were praised, igniting Santos’ offense.
In the classic against Corinthians on October 16, Vojvoda brought him on late, explaining, “He’s ready, but we need to manage his workload to avoid injuries.” Fans chanted for his entry, showing growing affection.
In another match against Flamengo, interim coach Cléber Xavier (who stepped in at times) called on him, and he contributed to a victory. By October 2025, he had played around 10 official matches, with one assist and moments of brilliance. His average minutes per game are low but increasing, indicating trust from the coaching staff.
Analysts highlight his versatility: he can play as a left winger or second striker. In a September analysis video, he was compared to young talents like Endrick of Palmeiras for his boldness. Despite Santos facing relegation risks in Série A, Robinho Júnior has been a bright spot, motivating the team.
Interest from European Clubs
Robinho Júnior’s talent has not gone unnoticed in Europe. In September 2025, Liverpool and Chelsea sent scouts to watch him. Liverpool, in particular, attended Santos matches, impressed by his skill.
In October, Inter Milan intensified their interest, planning an offer by the end of 2025. An Inter scout met with his representatives during a match against Corinthians. Other giants, like Milan (his father’s former club), have shown curiosity, but Santos is holding firm, valuing his high release clause.
Robinho Júnior has expressed a desire to play in Europe eventually but prioritizes development in Brazil. “I want to win titles here first,” he said in a recent interview.
Personal Challenges and Support System
Despite his success, Robinho Júnior faces challenges. His father’s imprisonment casts a shadow, but the club and family shield him. He underwent psychological support to handle pressures, emerging stronger.
Santos provides comprehensive support, including education and nutritional guidance. Neymar and other veterans, like former player Ronaldinho (whose son also plays), offer advice. In April 2025, Neymar aided his integration from the youth ranks, strengthening bonds.
The international press covered his debut, highlighting the family cycle at Santos. Robinho Júnior stays focused on the pitch, avoiding controversies.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Robinho Júnior has the potential to join Brazil’s under-20 team and eventually the senior squad. With Santos at risk of relegation, a transfer could occur, but the club plans to keep him until 2026 for further development.
Experts predict that by 18, he’ll be ready for Europe. His R$644 million clause protects Santos, but negotiations are possible. In 2025, he aims for more minutes and goals to solidify his career.
Conclusion
Robinho Júnior represents the new generation of Brazilian football, blending family legacy with his own talent. At 17, he has overcome adversity and shines at Santos, attracting global attention. With updates through October 2025 showing his growth, his future is promising. May he continue playing with the joy football demands, honoring his lineage while forging his unique path.
