Santos FC has opened an internal investigation after reports of a confrontation during training involving global star Neymar Jr and teenage forward Robson de Souza Jr, widely known as Robinho Jr.
The incident is said to have occurred during a session at the club’s training base and reportedly moved from a football dispute into a physical exchange, prompting concern within the squad.
In an official communication, Santos confirmed it has initiated formal steps to establish what happened.
The club stated, “Santos FC informs that by determination of the presidency, an internal inquiry process was instituted immediately after the facts occurred to analyse the episode involving athletes Neymar Jr and Robson de Souza Jr (Robinho) during training this last Sunday (03/5) at CT Rei Pelé. The club’s legal department is responsible for conducting the inquiry.”
The matter has since taken a more serious turn after reports from Globo Esporte indicated that Robinho Jr’s legal representatives have escalated the issue, submitting formal documentation demanding clarity and action regarding Neymar’s conduct during the session.
According to the filing, Robinho Jr alleges that Neymar “uttered insults in an offensive manner, applied a trip, and dealt a violent slap to the face” of the teenager.
His representatives are also requesting access to training footage and a meeting with club officials, citing concerns about the “absence of minimum security conditions” within the club environment.
Sources suggest the tension began during a high-intensity training session held the day after Santos’ 1-1 draw with Palmeiras.
During a competitive drill involving squad players, Neymar is said to have reacted angrily after being beaten by a dribble from the 18-year-old prospect.
The forward reportedly told the youngster to “take it easy” before the exchange escalated into a verbal altercation and brief physical contact.
While some accounts indicate the two players may have cooled off and reconciled later in the dressing room, Robinho Jr’s camp maintains that the situation was not properly resolved, citing Neymar’s “impulsive attitude” and the club’s handling of the incident.