Returning to his training club last week for a salary of 230 euros per month, Robinho perhaps did not expect to trigger such a controversy in Brazil.
Sentenced at first instance for a gang rape committed in 2013 while playing for AC Milan, the return of the former Real Madrid and Manchester City striker sparked a huge wave of protest in his country. So much so that the Santos club decided this Friday to break his five-month contract.
Robinho appealed against his conviction
In 2017, the striker, considered the new Pelé in his debut, was sentenced in absentia to nine years in prison by an Italian court for acts of gang rape dating back to 2013, during his stint at AC Milan. . Since the court ruling, Robinho has consistently proclaimed his innocence and has filed an appeal.
NOTE TO THE PRESS
Santos Futebol Clube and athlete Robinho report that, by mutual agreement, they decided to suspend the validity of the contract signed on October 10 so that the player can focus exclusively on his defense in the process that runs in Italy.
– Santos Futebol Clube (@SantosFC) October 16, 2020
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“By mutual agreement,” Santos and Robinho “have decided to suspend the validity of the contract signed on October 10 so that the player can focus exclusively on his defense in the ongoing process in Italy,” Sao club said. Paulo in a message posted on social networks.
Free since his departure from Istanbul Basaksehir during the summer, the 36-year-old striker will therefore only have spent a week in Santos during his fourth visit to the club.
Robinho determined to prove his innocence
Aware of the disturbance caused by his return to his training club, Robinho approved Santos’ decision and made it known in a video posted online after the announcement of his dismissal.
“With much sadness in my heart, I announce that I have made the decision with the president [de Santos] to suspend my contract at this troubled moment in my life, said the former international to the 100 caps with the Seleçao. My goal has always been to help Santos club. “
Robinho and #Santos suspended a contract that wasn’t even supposed to be done! When the facts were taken from the bottom of the chest, it was unsustainable. Football is no place for rape convicts! He was an idol and never will be! Sad. #MercadoDaBola pic.twitter.com/6kgDxCBEcI
— Brenno Beretta (@BrennoBeretta) October 17, 2020
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And the fallen striker to reiterate his wish to fight to wash his honor: “If I disturb in any way, it is better that I leave and that I concentrate on my personal affairs, again launched the player of 36 years old. To my fans and to those of Peixe (Santos, editor’s note), I will prove my innocence. “
The pressure around the player’s return to Brazil increased throughout the week. Many Santos sponsors on Friday threatened to break or not renew their sponsorship deal if Robinho stayed at the club.
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