According to ESPN Brazil, Robinho Jr., a forward currently on loan from Santos to Genoa in Italy, was recently observed by Branco, the youth academy coordinator for the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
On Wednesday, local time, Branco visited Genoa's training ground as part of his trip to Europe for exchange activities and to scout young Brazilian players.
Branco spoke with Robinho Jr., asking if he was ready and interested in playing for the Brazilian youth national team. Branco also assured him that he had no intention of allowing Italy to recruit him. According to ESPN reporters, this statement made the young player somewhat waver.
Robinho Jr. holds an Italian passport. More than two months ago, the Italian Football Federation had approached him about the possibility of representing the Italian youth national team. As he had not previously received a call-up from the CBF, he had not closed the door on Italy's invitation at the time. However, the forward still considers playing for Brazil his first choice.
At Genoa, Robinho Jr. has performed exceptionally well, earning praise from first-team head coach Daniele De Rossi. Last Friday, he also started for the first team in Genoa's friendly match against Rapid București.
Furthermore, Robinho Jr. is expected to make his official first-team debut for Genoa this Saturday. He will be included in the squad for the match against Fiorentina, a Serie A Matchday 6 fixture.
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