October 19 – Santos and former Brazil star Robinho have parted ways after growing public pressure over the player’s rape conviction in Italy in 2017 and his current defense.
“Santos Football Club and the player Robinho announce that by common agreement, they have decided to suspend his contract signed on October 10 so that the player can concentrate exclusively on his defense in the case that occurred in Italy,” wrote the Paulista club in a Twitter statement.
“With great sadness in my heart, I am letting you know that I have taken the decision together with the president to suspend my contract in this turbulent time in my life,” said Robinho, 36, in a video. “My goal was always to help Santos football club.”
“If my presence is in any way a disruption, it is better to leave and take care of my personal affairs.”
Last week, Santos announced the signing of their former star with pomp and circumstance, but the club were immediately heavily criticised by fans, media and womens rights groups because of Robinho’s rape conviction. In 2017, an Italian court handed the player a nine-year jail sentence after it found Robinho guilty of involvement in a 2013 gang rape.
Robinho has appealed the sentence, claiming his innocence. But Globo revealed damning evidence that the Italian prosecutor had used in the case.
Robinho is reportedly to be heard saying: “I’m laughing because I don’t care. The woman was completely drunk. She doesn’t even know what happened.”
Sponsors of the club also threatened to pull out.
Robinho rose to prominence at Pele’s former club alongside Diego, but like his compatriot he never truly fulfilled his potential after crossing the Atlantic and his meandering career saw him play at Manchester City, AC Milan and Real Madrid but without much success.
Contact the writer of this story, Samindra Kunti, at moc.l1734945801labto1734945801ofdlr1734945801owedi1734945801sni@o1734945801fni1734945801