Robson de Souza, widely known as Robinho, rose from the futsal courts of São Vicente to reach the pinnacle of global association football. Identified as a significant talent at age 12, he became a defining figure for Santos before securing high-profile transfers to European giants Real Madrid, Manchester City, and AC Milan throughout a career spanning over a decade.
Early Development and Santos
Born on 25 January 1984, Robinho developed his fundamental dribbling and acceleration skills through extensive participation in futsal. He signed his initial professional contract with Santos in 2002. During his debut season, he made 24 appearances and scored one goal, contributing to the club securing their first Campeonato Brasileiro title since the era of Pelé. Despite a kidnapping incident involving his mother, Marina da Silva Souza, in 2005, Robinho remained a central attacking threat for the club.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →European Tenure and Achievements
In July 2005, Robinho moved to Real Madrid for 24 million euros. He wore the number 10 shirt and played a vital role in two La Liga title victories. Following his time in Spain, he transitioned to the Premier League with Manchester City in September 2008 for a reported fee between 41 and 42 million euros. His tenure in England included a hat-trick against Stoke City and finishing as the team's top goalscorer for the 2008-09 season. He later achieved success in Italy, securing a Serie A title during his debut season with AC Milan.
Legal Conviction
In 2017, an Italian court found Robinho guilty of sexual assault related to a 2013 gang rape incident at a nightclub in Milan. The conviction was subsequently upheld by the Milan Court of Appeals and finalized by the Italian supreme court in January 2022. While Italy requested his extradition, the Brazilian Constitution prohibits the transfer of its nationals. Consequently, Robinho began serving his nine-year sentence within Brazil in March 2024.
Fast facts
- Born: 25 January 1984, São Vicente, Brazil
- Professional debut: 2002, Santos
- Real Madrid transfer fee: 24 million euros
- Manchester City transfer fee: 41-42 million euros
- International honors: 1 Copa América, 2 FIFA Confederations Cups
- Italian conviction year: 2017
- Prison term: 9 years
Questions readers ask
Did Robinho play in the FIFA World Cup?
Yes, he appeared in two FIFA World Cup tournaments during his professional career.
Why was Robinho not extradited to Italy?
The Brazilian Constitution does not permit the extradition of Brazilian citizens to other countries.
.jpg)
