AFCON 2025
In a remarkable turn of events, Brazilian football icon Neymar Jr. has returned to Santos FC, the club where he began his illustrious career.
He is also now playing alongside Robson de Souza Junior, the 17-year-old son of his former teammate and mentor, Robinho.
On January 31, 2025, Santos FC officially announced Neymar’s return, with the star forward donning the iconic number 10 jersey, previously worn by the legendary Pelé.
Neymar’s re-debut took place on February 6, 2025, in a Campeonato Paulista match against Botafogo-SP at the Vila Belmiro stadium. Entering as a halftime substitute, Neymar was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from fans, though the match concluded in a 1-1 draw.
Robson de Souza Junior, born on December 17, 2007, is the son of Robinho, a celebrated figure in Brazilian football. Joining Santos’ youth academy in May 2022 at the age of 14, Robson Junior quickly showcased his potential.
By August 2024, he had signed his first professional contract with Santos, which included a notable €50 million release clause. His impressive performance in the Campeonato Paulista Sub-17, where he emerged as the team’s top scorer with nine goals, further solidified his reputation as a rising star.
The narrative of Neymar and Robson Junior is deeply intertwined with that of Robinho. In the early stages of Neymar’s career, Robinho served as a mentor, guiding the young talent through the ranks of professional football.
Now, years later, Neymar finds himself in a similar role, offering guidance and support to Robson Junior as they share the pitch for Santos. This unique mentor-mentee relationship spanning two generations underscores the enduring legacy of Santos FC in nurturing football talent.
