Robinho Júnior, whose full name is Robson de Souza Júnior, is a young talent in Brazilian football making waves at Santos Football Club. Born on December 17, 2007, in Santos, São Paulo, he is the son of former player Robinho, an idol of the club and the Brazilian national team. At just 17 years old, Robinho Júnior already shows skill and potential to pursue a promising career, primarily playing as a forward or attacking midfielder. His journey is marked by resilience, dedication, and the support of key figures like Neymar. This article explores his life, career, and the latest updates as of October 2025.
Beginnings in Football
Birth and Family
Robinho Júnior was born into a football-centric family. His father, Robinho, was at the peak of his career playing for Real Madrid at the time. The city of Santos, the birthplace of the “Peixe” (Santos FC), has always been the family’s home, and it was there that Júnior grew up surrounded by sporting influences. However, his entry into football was not immediate. Unlike many young players who start early, he began his journey later, at age ten, at Portuários, a local Santos club.
His first coach, Robson Fernandes de Oliveira, personally chosen by his father, quickly noticed Júnior’s natural talent. “He had better dribbling than his father and incredible courage to attempt plays,” Oliveira recalled in interviews. His mother, Vivian Guglielmetti, Robinho’s wife, played a crucial role, traveling weekly from Belo Horizonte to Santos during Robinho’s stint at Atlético Mineiro between 2016 and 2017 so Júnior could play on Saturdays. This exhausting routine demonstrated the family’s commitment to the boy’s development.
Joining Santos
In May 2022, Robinho Júnior joined the youth academy of Santos FC, the club where his father became a legend. His development was gradual, as he started in the under-15 team and played only two matches in that category. Aware of his potential, Santos instructed staff to avoid sensitive topics related to his father’s legal issues, allowing Júnior to focus on football and enjoy his time at the Rei Pelé Training Center.
Youth Career Trajectory
Under-17 and Early Highlights
Promoted to the under-17 team in 2023, Robinho Júnior began to shine in 2024. That year, he won the São Paulo Under-17 Championship with Santos, scoring nine goals and sharing the top scorer title with Lucca Amaro. His ability to use both feet and versatility to play as a left winger or attacking midfielder caught the attention of the coaching staff. These goals were not just statistics; they represented moments of resilience, as he showed composure and refined technique in crucial matches.
Under-20 and Copinha 2025
In 2025, Júnior moved up to the under-20 team and participated in the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior, known as the Copinha. His debut in the competition was memorable: in January, he scored a goal and won a penalty in a Santos match. In the Brazilian Under-20 Championship, he played nine games and scored three goals, cementing his status as a gem of the youth setup. Registered with the senior squad for the São Paulo State Championship in February 2025, he trained with the professionals, accelerating his maturation.
These tournaments were pivotal for his development. Playing alongside other young talents, Robinho Júnior learned to handle the pressure of large crowds and the importance of teamwork. Scouts described him as a “self-taught” footballer, quick to learn and adapt to different playing styles.
Professional Debut
Friendly Against Desportiva Ferroviária
The year 2025 marked his definitive transition to professional football. On July 10, Robinho Júnior made his unofficial debut in a friendly against Desportiva Ferroviária in Espírito Santo. Coming off the bench in the second half, he provided an assist for Diego Pituca’s goal, helping Santos win 3-1. This performance opened doors and showed he was ready for bigger challenges.
Brasileirão Debut and First Matches
Six days later, on July 16, he made his official debut in Brazil’s Série A against Flamengo at Vila Belmiro. Substituting for Álvaro Barreal, Júnior contributed to a 1-0 victory. By October 2025, he has played four matches for the senior team, mostly coming on in the final stages of games. His number 7 jersey, inherited from his father, symbolizes not only a legacy but also the expectations of Santos fans for a new idol.
In September, he was called up for a Brasileirão match against Flamengo under coach Cléber Xavier. Though not yet a regular starter, his appearances have been praised for adding speed and creativity to the attack.
Relationship with Neymar
One of the most influential figures in Robinho Júnior’s career is Neymar, Santos’ number 10. After returning to the club, Neymar took on a mentorship role, acting as a “guardian” or “godfather” to the young player. He offers advice, helps Júnior adapt to the professional environment, and encourages him daily. “I’m here to help. He’s a good-hearted kid, and I’m rooting for him,” Neymar said after a win against Flamengo.
This mentorship is symbolic: Neymar was mentored by Júnior’s father during his early days at Santos. Now, the roles are reversed, with Neymar guiding the young player. In social media posts, Neymar praises Júnior’s under-20 performances, boosting his confidence. This relationship has been crucial for Júnior’s adjustment to the professional setting and handling the pressure of being the son of a former idol.
Contract Renewal
In July 2025, Santos renewed Robinho Júnior’s contract until April 30, 2027, with an automatic two-year extension clause upon turning 18. The release clause for foreign clubs is set at 50 million euros (approximately R$320 million at current exchange rates), reflecting the club’s confidence in his potential. The signing took place at Vila Belmiro, attended by club president Marcelo Teixeira and board members.
Teixeira emphasized Júnior’s importance to the club’s future: “Santos has a DNA of developing stars. We see hope and renewal in him.” For Júnior, the renewal was a dream come true: “I’m living a dream.” This recognition came after his debut and consistent performances, ensuring he remains with Santos as he continues to grow.
Interest from European Clubs
With his rising talent, Robinho Júnior is attracting international attention. As of October 2025, clubs like Inter Milan, Chelsea, and Liverpool are monitoring the young player. Inter, in particular, plans to intensify their pursuit, with scouts attending his matches. Chelsea is considering a move for the wonderkid, while Liverpool has sent scouts to watch him in action.
Other European clubs, such as Milan and Grêmio (as a potential bridge to England), have shown interest, but Júnior remains focused on Santos. His market value, according to Transfermarkt, is 1 million euros, but experts predict a rapid increase. Training exceptionally, he is seen as Brazil’s next wonderkid, with potential to shine in Europe after turning 18.
Personal Life and Discretion
Due to the challenges faced by his father—Robinho is serving a nine-year sentence for rape in Italy—Júnior maintains a low profile. He avoids public appearances and active social media presence, focusing on football. Santos shields him from questions about his father, recognizing his personal struggles. “He’s not responsible for his father’s issues,” say fans and analysts.
Júnior prefers to be called Robinho Júnior, embracing his legacy while striving to be recognized for his own merits. Standing at 170 cm with ambidextrous skills, he trains daily to overcome comparisons.
Latest Updates (October 2025)
As of October 16, 2025, Robinho Júnior continues to be part of Santos’ senior squad. He has participated in intense training sessions and was included in recent matches, such as against Atlético Mineiro in September. Neymar continues to mentor him, “sponsoring” his adaptation after returning to the club.
European interest is growing: Inter Milan is preparing a proposal, while Chelsea and Liverpool compete for his signature. On X (formerly Twitter), fans debate the need to separate him from his father’s name, but Júnior chooses to keep it. His next match could be against Flamengo, where he hopes for more minutes.
In the under-20 team, he continues to shine with goals and assists. Analysts predict he may soon be called up to youth national teams. Santos plans to utilize him more in 2026, aiming for his consolidation as a starter.
Conclusion
Robinho Júnior represents the new generation of Brazilian football, carrying a heavy legacy but shining on his own. From a late start to his professional debut, his journey is one of perseverance and talent. With Neymar’s support, a renewed contract, and international interest, his future looks bright. At 17, he’s already inspiring Santos fans, proving that a legacy can be rewritten with dedication. Here’s to more goals, assists, and achievements for this young star.
