Robinho joined Orlando City following a trade with the Columbus Crew on July 11, the first of two acquisitions in the summer transfer window. By adding Robinho, the Lions looked to jump start offensive production and offer depth in wide attacking positions.
The Brazilian winger was only brought to MLS from Brazilian Serie A side Ceará Sporting Club in January by current Orlando City Director of Scouting Ricardo Moreira with the deal reportedly done while Gregg Berhalter was still in charge. But the Crew, under new management with Caleb Porter, felt it had seen enough by July to jettison Robinho and recoup some of the rumored $250,000 transfer fee quickly.