Botafogo received a new FIFA transfer ban notification on Monday, June 11, this time due to unpaid debts to Atlanta United for the signing of midfielder Thiago Almada (25). The Alvinegro now have three active bans, leaving them unable to register new players for an indefinite period.
The financial crisis deepened after the club delayed the second installment of the agreement signed in February for Almada’s purchase. Initially, Botafogo paid $10 million (€8 million) in cash, but failed to meet the subsequent commitment.
SAF owner John Textor verbally negotiated with the Americans to avoid an immediate sanction and extend deadlines, but the talks could not halt the process at football’s governing body.
Beyond the market freeze, Botafogo faces a severe punitive contractual clause. The delay in the Almada payment has triggered a fine that, according to ge, more than doubles the total original debt and must be paid in full upfront.
The current “block” results from three separate cases: Thiago Almada; Santi Rodríguez (New York City), where the club was notified on May 7 for overdue installments totaling approximately $5 million (€4 million); and Rwan Cruz (Ludogorets), a sanction in effect since April 20 over a €8 million debt.
To try to reverse the isolation in the transfer market, Botafogo’s legal department is seeking support from judicial recovery. The club has requested that FIFA’s sanctions be suspended, based on a preliminary injunction prior to the debt restructuring process. The Alvinegro board hopes the international federation will recognize Brazilian jurisdiction on the matter and accept to suspend the blocks while a payment plan is organized. Otherwise, the club will continue to be unable to reinforce the squad for the remainder of the 2026 competitions.