Botafogo has been hit with another transfer ban imposed by FIFA, this time linked to the signing of Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada. The decision, notified to the club on Monday (11), prevents the team from registering new players indefinitely. This marks the third active sanction against the club, compounding financial troubles.
The latest ban stems from the non-payment of the second installment of an agreement with Atlanta United from the United States. Despite efforts by John Textor, owner of Botafogo’s SAF, to renegotiate deadlines and secure a verbal deal to avoid the highest football authority’s intervention, the American club triggered FIFA’s process.
Botafogo’s financial situation resembles a worrying domino effect. The club already had two recent punishments: one dated April 20 related to a debt with Ludogorets for the signing of Rwan Cruz (valued at €8 million), and another on May 7 due to overdue installments to New York City for the purchase of Santi Rodríguez (around $5 million).
Botafogo has requested that the sanctions be subject to the preliminary injunction of its judicial recovery process. The club’s leadership hopes FIFA will recognize the validity of the financial restructuring and suspend the sporting penalties.
Thiago Almada was bought by Botafogo in 2024 (Photo: Disclosure / Botafogo)
Thiago Almada and the Libertadores trophy for Botafogo (Photo: Vítor Silva / Botafogo)
After earning a point against Atlético-MG at Mineirão, Botafogo now shifts focus to the Copa do Brasil. The next challenge is the return leg of the fifth round at Arena Condá against Chapecoense, following a 1-0 victory in the first leg at Nilton Santos.
