Robinho Jr. on the Rise: The CBF’s Glances in Europe

Last Friday (2), forward Robinho Jr. shone in Genoa’s shirt, in a friendly against Rapid Bucuresti. The player, who is on loan from Santos, drew attention from none other than Branco, the CBF coordinator of the youth categories, who was there keeping an eye on the youngster.

A Visit That Matters

This Wednesday (7) was full of activity! Branco paid a visit to Centro Sportivo Pio XII during his trip through Europe, which aims to scout new Brazilian talents. What’s even cooler is that he returned to the club where he played in the early years of 90.

During the conversation with Robinho Jr., Branco revealed that he doesn’t want the young forward to slip away to the Italian team. That’s because, with an Italian passport in hand, Robinho Jr. was approached by the Federazione Italiana Giuoco Calcio (FIGC) to defend Italy’s youth selection. And look—he didn’t rule out the idea if the invitation comes, but his priority remains the Brazilian national team.

Loan Situation

It’s worth noting that Robinho Jr. is on loan from Santos until the end of the current European season, and the contract includes a purchase option. Santos, of course, is watching this situation closely and hopes that Branco will recommend the player’s name to coach Paulo Victor, of the under-20 national team. That’s because there’s a clause that provides for the payment of 500 thousand euros (approximately R$ 2,8 million) as a bonus if Robinho Jr. is called up.

The Brazilian Delegation in Europe

In addition to Branco, the CBF sent a strong delegation to Europe, including Paulo Victor himself and Carlos Eduardo Patetuci, the coach of the under-17 national team. They’re splitting visits between countries such as Germany and Spain, always seeking new references.

Branco couldn’t be more excited about this exchange of experiences. He stressed that football evolves all the time, and it’s crucial for us to stay open to new methodologies. These visits are an incredible opportunity to learn and also to track Brazilian talents who are outside the country.

He said: “These visits allow us to talk with professionals, understand other methodologies, and observe how clubs organize their processes. It’s also an exchange that broadens our references and can bring lessons to the work we do in the youth national teams.”

Focus on the South American Tournament

Finally, we can’t forget that Brazil’s under-20 team is preparing for the South American Championship, which will be held in January 2027. We’re keeping an eye on what’s coming!

So, we’ll keep cheering for Robinho Jr., who has a bright future ahead!