Brazilian football club Botafogo has been subjected to an immediate transfer embargo by FIFA, a punitive measure that could extend for as many as three transfer periods. This action comes as a direct consequence of the club's failure to remit a significant sum owed to Major League Soccer's Atlanta United for the acquisition of Argentine talent Thiago Almada.
The current prohibition on transfers will persist until Botafogo fulfills its financial commitment of $22.5 million to Atlanta United. This substantial amount covers the 2024 transfer of Thiago Almada, with the payment initially due on December 26th of the previous year. The situation escalated following an arbitration decision.
Earlier in the year, specifically in February, a FIFA tribunal issued a ruling that placed the responsibility squarely on the Brazilian club for an outstanding transfer fee totaling $21 million. Furthermore, an additional $1.5 million in interest was levied due to the non-payment of the initial two installments agreed upon between the two teams.
Botafogo subsequently contested this ruling, presenting its case at a Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) hearing in October. However, in December, the club received notification that CAS had affirmed FIFA's original decision, leaving Botafogo with no further avenues for appeal regarding the immediate payment.
Adding to Botafogo's financial woes, inside sources have indicated that the Brazilian club may incur an additional debt of $9 million to the MLS team. This potential liability arises from performance-based clauses and future sell-on fees related to Almada's anticipated transfer to Atletico Madrid in Spain this coming summer.
Thiago Almada, currently 24 years old, enjoyed a successful tenure with Atlanta United from 2022 to 2024, during which he netted 23 goals. His impressive performance earned him the distinguished 2022 MLS Newcomer of the Year award, highlighting his immediate impact in the league.
Following his move, Almada signed a five-year contract with Botafogo and commenced his playing career with the club in 2024. He was later temporarily transferred to French side Lyon for the first half of 2025. Both Botafogo and Lyon share a common ownership under Eagle Football Holdings.
Internationally, Almada is a recognized member of the Argentina national football squad and participated in the 2024 Summer Olympics, further cementing his status as a key player.
In terms of recent club performance, Botafogo celebrated a double victory in 2024, securing both Brazil's Serie A title and the prestigious Copa Libertadores. However, the club experienced a decline in form during 2025, finishing in a less impressive sixth place in Serie A.
This ongoing transfer dispute highlights the complexities and financial obligations inherent in international football transfers, particularly when payments become overdue, leading to severe consequences such as transfer bans that can significantly impact a club's ability to compete and recruit new talent.