The ax has fallen. Earlier today, Botafogo announced that they would be banned from recruitment by FIFA for the next three transfer windows. From January 1, 2026 to January 31, 2027, the Brazilian club will not be able to recruit new elements. He is sanctioned for not having paid the fine imposed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport of €18 million on Atlanta United as part of the transfer of Thiago Almada in 2024 compared to around €24 million. This was never fully resolved.
The American franchise therefore took the matter to FIFA and ended up winning its case. Only two payments were made. In its press release, the Rio de Janeiro team pleads the good cause and assures in its press release published on “very active in player recruitment in January 2026.”
Recruits cannot be registered
A few hours earlier, however, John Textor had officially submitted a proposal to Eagle Football to buy Botafogo SAF (the commercial entity). This approach constitutes a new step in the process underway for several months, against a backdrop of legal dispute between the two parties. The American is criticized for a lack of clarity in the management of financial flows and an ever-increasing debt. Supporters have already started to show their discontent for several months now and this new sanction is unlikely to ease tensions.
In Brazil, this ban is not really surprising. Lance! is even optimistic for an agreement soon between Botafogo and Atlanta. There are still consequences, starting with the delay in planning. Club Nacional winger Lucas Villalba, who has already passed his medical, cannot be registered until the transfer ban is lifted, confirms Globo. He will nevertheless be able to train with the rest of the squad, but without the possibility of participating in official matches.
The new coach Martin Anselmi has however made requests with a view to the transfer window but he will have to wait. Quite a few names, including that of Hulk (39 years old), have already been mentioned to strengthen the Rio club. Financial reality imposes certain deadlines. The sale of Marlon Freitas to Palmeiras for around €7.75 million (6th biggest sale in Botafogo history) could help, while Vitinho is currently blocked by Anselmi, despite European interests. Optimism is in order. Still with John Textor.
Pub. the
– UPDATE
