The forward's move from Real Madrid to Eastlands has produced a storm of criticism in his native Brazil, prompting Pele to say Chelsea were "lucky" that City gazumped them in a £32.5 million deal on Monday.
"Chelsea are lucky. This boy needs some serious counselling. In my view he has been badly advised," said Pele.
The three-time World Cup-winner played the majority of his club career at Santos, where Robinho started out, and reflected concerns that the move was motivated purely by money.
Santos president Marcelo Teixeira stormed: "This is one of the most disgraceful episodes in Brazilian football. He is a player who is an idol to children, an example. But he has not acted like one."
The club's general manager, Jose Fernandes, added: "We are ashamed at having produced such a player."
