Robson deSouza Júnior, son of former Brazilian footballer Robinho, made his Serie A debut on Saturday, when Genoa faced Roma at the Olympic Stadium. At just 18 years old, the young attacker came on in the 83rd minute, replacing JuniorMessias, and was welcomed by coach DanieleDeRossi, who granted him his first opportunity after outstanding performances last season with the club's Primavera team.
The Brazilian forward arrived at Genoa in the summer of 2024, from Santos, the club where he began his career and where his father also played. The transfer included a purchase option set at eight million euros. Initially assigned to the youth category, his performance in Primavera, coached by DomenicoCriscito, accelerated his promotion to first team training. In that category, Robson scored two goals against Atalanta in September and another against Juventus on October 11, in addition to playing a decisive role in the 3-1 victory against Turin. His speed, dribbling ability and command of his left foot raised expectations about his future at the club.
Wearing the number 21 shirt, the young man played just over ten minutes at the Olympic Stadium. Although it failed to influence the result, Genoa was defeated 2‑0 by Roma, with goals from SantiagoCastro and EmanueleLulli. The debut marked the start of Robson's professional career, who had already made his first appearance for Santos in July 2025 against Flamengo.
Robson's move to SerieA comes in a context where comparisons with his father are inevitable. Robinho, who won two Spanish leagues with Real Madrid and one in Italy with Milan, is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence in Brazil for a gang rape committed in Italy. The son, for his part, seeks to build his own career, far from the notoriety that his last name imposes on him.
Genoa hope that Robson deSouza Júnior continues to develop in the Italian top flight. With the experience of the Primavera and the support of his coach, the club plans to gradually integrate him into the main squad, with the intention of the young attacker contributing speed and creativity to the team's attack. Genoa's next match will be an opportunity for the debutant to expand his participation and demonstrate his potential in SerieA.