Robinho Jr. rejects under-20 return and could leave Santos in next window | OneFootball

Santos are facing an impasse over 18-year-old Robinho Jr. following his 17 April contract renewal. According to Globo.com, he is unwilling to play for the under-20s without a clear career plan, and coach Cuca does not appear minded to use him in the first team.

The forward has not featured for more than a month, his last outing came on 8 April against Deportivo Cuenca in the Copa Sudamericana. He continues to train with the senior squad but has played only eight times this season.

An informal assurance at renewal that he would see more minutes has not materialised. The coaching staff judge that he is not yet ready to influence the starting side.

His camp have told Santos he will not step back to under-20 level without a defined pathway. They argue he played in the youth ranks last year as part of the club’s plan, and that circumstances have changed.

Despite Elano’s advice to drop down to impress under the eye of the football manager, the player wants to remain with the seniors, while his agent is targeting Europe.

A move could even be eased by his limited first-team minutes, which would keep his market value modest. Inter Milan have an interest, but no proposal has been made.

The football department believe he must stay ready and wait for his chance. He is expected to be available for the next two games with Coritiba in the Copa do Brasil and the Brasileirão.

His current deal runs until 30 March 2031.

Source: Globo.com