Shay Given has told Robinho he has to accept it if Manchester City choose to call him back from Santos next season.
The one-time Real Madrid star has other plans and is desperate to stay long beyond the August 4 expiry of his current agreement.
But Given says: "I don't know what he wants. But he is a Manchester City player, so if Manchester City want him back, he's got no choice in the matter.
"I don't regret him going. Robinho was out for a good bit this season with an injury and he was only getting bit-parts off the bench when he got back.
"He's gone off to Brazil and looks a lot sharper and a lot fitter. I think that's only going to benefit Manchester City if he's playing regularly, has a great World Cup and comes back to us in the summer a stronger and maybe more confident player."