Unsettled Brazil international striker Robinho has decided his immediate future lies with the United States MLS after spending four seasons – the last two as a fringe player – at troubled Serie A side AC Milan.
The 30-year-old moved to the San Siro in 2010 following a two-season stint with Manchester City in the Premier League and a three-year spell at La Liga side Real Madrid prior to that.
The 2013/2014 season saw the Brazilian make just eleven starts in 38 league fixtures, 14 less than Milan’s wayward striker Mario Balotelli, who is believed to have been something of a delinquent during a turbulent season in which two managers were hired and fired.
Robinho is reportedly in discussions with MLS side Orlando City, with whom he is pushing for a move that would see him link back up with former team-mate and Brazil international comrade Kaka, who is also set to join the Florida-based outfit.
It is possible the Brazil star is viewing AC Milan’s up-and-coming young talent – 16-year-old striker Hachim Manstour – as a threat to his already-diminished position in the starting eleven.
Youth player Manstour – who is dual nationality (Italy/Morocco) was promoted to the first team towards the end of last season and made his debut for the Rossoneri against Sassuolo, aged 15, back in May.
The wonderkid became the youngest player ever to break into the AC Milan first team and is sure to graft hard in order to impress boss Filippo Inzaghi over the coming season.
Milan’s French newbie – 27-year-old Jeremy Menez – who signed to the club from PSG last month, will also be looking to cement his place as a regular attacker at the San Siro.