Santos FC have opened an internal investigation following reports of a heated altercation between Neymar and Robinho Jr during a training session at the club’s facilities on Sunday.
According to club officials, the incident took place at the Rei Pelé Training Centre, prompting immediate disciplinary action as the situation escalated between the two players during practice.
International media reports suggest tensions rose after the 18-year-old Robinho Jr reportedly dribbled past Neymar during a drill, an action that is said to have triggered a strong reaction from the senior forward, who allegedly felt disrespected.
The exchange is claimed to have intensified quickly, with reports stating that Neymar tripped the youngster, leading to a confrontation between the pair before teammates intervened to separate them and restore order.
In an official statement, Santos confirmed they had initiated formal proceedings to examine the matter.
Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel
“Santos Futebol Clube has become aware of an alleged physical assault committed by a player affiliated with Santos Futebol Clube against another player at the club,” and confirmed that disciplinary procedures had been initiated,” the club stated.
“Santos FC announces that, following a decision by the club’s board, an internal investigation was launched immediately after the incident to examine the episode involving the players Neymar Jr. and Robson de Souza Jr. [Robinho] during training on Sunday at the Rei Pelé Training Centre.”
Brazilian outlet GloboEsporte reported that Robinho Jr has raised several allegations, including claims of offensive language, being tripped, and even receiving what he described as a “violent slap to the face.”
The report also claims the young forward has requested a meeting with the club to discuss a possible termination of his contract, citing concerns over a “lack of minimum safety standards” within the training environment.
Representatives of Neymar have so far declined to comment on the incident. However, sources close to the player suggest he attempted to defuse the situation afterwards by reaching out to Robinho Jr and offering apologies to his family.
READ: David Warner flags Karachi Kings snub in PSL 11 Team of the Tournament