Full Breakdown
Neymar–Robinho Jr. Training Ground Clash Prompts Santos Internal Investigation
5/5/2026, 2:28:05 PM
Training Ground Clash Triggers Internal Probe
During a Sunday training session on 3 May at Santos’ CT Rei Pelé, veteran forward Neymar (34) and 18-year-old forward Robinho Jr. clashed after the younger player dribbled past Neymar. Sources say Neymar told him to “take it easy,” then tripped, pushed and slapped him. Teammates intervened and the two were pulled apart. Both were omitted from the subsequent 1-1 draw with Palmeiras. Santos announced an immediate internal inquiry.
Background & Player Profiles
Neymar, a former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star and Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, is vying for a spot in the 2026 World Cup squad. Robinho Jr., son of ex-Real Madrid and Manchester City forward Robinho, was promoted to Santos’ first team in 2025, has made eight appearances this season, and is under contract until 30 April 2025.
Official Statements & Club Response
Santos issued a Portuguese statement confirming awareness of an alleged assault and noting that “by determination of the presidency, an internal inquiry process was instituted immediately after the facts occurred… The club’s legal department is responsible for conducting the inquiry.” Neymar’s press office declined to comment.
Criticism & Opposition
Robinho Jr. alleges Neymar hurled offensive insults, tripped him and delivered a violent slap to the face. His representatives sent an extrajudicial notice demanding an internal inquiry, the release of training footage, a meeting to discuss possible contract termination for “lack of minimum safety conditions,” and that Santos cover any early-termination costs.
On-the-Ground Accounts
Eyewitnesses say Neymar told Robinho Jr. to “take it easy,” then tripped and slapped him after feeling disrespected. Teammates separated the players. Some reports later claimed the matter was “resolved” following Neymar’s apology.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on whether the incident is fully settled; while some note an apology, Robinho Jr.’s legal notice indicates ongoing dispute. His representatives have requested the club provide the training footage, indicating it has not yet been made public, and Neymar’s camp remains silent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “'s representatives sent Santos an extrajudicial notice demanding action over the incident involving Neymar last Sunday (4).” — OneFootball
- “Neymar and Robinho Jr are believed to share a close bond despite their bust-up | GETTY The matter was subsequently resolved when Neymar acknowledged his wrongdoing and offered an apology to the young midfielder.” — GB News
What’s Next
Santos’ legal department will review the training footage and meet with Robinho Jr.’s representatives. The inquiry’s findings could lead to contract termination and affect squad selection ahead of the Copa Sudamericana match with Deportivo Recoleta. Neymar is currently seeking a place in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad.
