Brazilian club Botafogo faces a significant setback as FIFA enforces a transfer ban starting today, due to an outstanding debt from the 2024 signing of Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada from Atlanta United. The sanction prevents Botafogo from registering new players for the next three transfer windows. Atlanta United pursued the claim after Botafogo failed to pay the remaining $21 million of the transfer fee. FIFA listed the ban on its official registration ban registry, marking a formal step in the dispute.
Almada, now 24, joined Botafogo in 2024 and contributed to their successes that year, including wins in the Brasileirão and Copa Libertadores. He appeared in 17 matches for the club before a loan to Olympique Lyon, followed by a permanent move to Atlético de Madrid, where he currently plays.
Botafogo officials responded late Tuesday, stating they held discussions with Atlanta United to settle the matter. Talks paused for the end-of-year holidays but will restart soon. The club anticipates resolving the issue before the January 2026 transfer window opens and intends to pursue signings then.
This development adds pressure on Botafogo owner John Textor, a U.S. businessman whose Eagle Football Holdings oversees both Botafogo and Lyon. Textor acquired Botafogo in 2022 and has overseen its restructuring amid financial challenges. Lyon, another holding in the group, nearly faced relegation last season over balance sheet issues, leading to legal disputes and Textor’s removal from its board.
Botafogo recently named Argentine coach Martín Anselmi on December 22, following Davide Ancelotti’s exit. Anselmi steps in as the club prepares for upcoming competitions, though the ban could limit squad adjustments if the debt remains unpaid.
The situation highlights ongoing financial tensions in multi-club ownership models. Botafogo, a prominent team in Brazilian football, must address the payment to lift the restriction and maintain competitiveness.
Atlanta United, from Major League Soccer, secured Almada’s services in prior years, where he built his reputation before the move to Brazil. The unresolved fee underscores the importance of timely payments in international transfers, as enforced by FIFA regulations. As the new year approaches, Botafogo’s management focuses on negotiations to avoid prolonged effects on team building.
