This is another setback for the Textor empire. After the turmoil experienced at Lyon, it is now Botafogo that is plunging into crisis. The Brazilian club, owned by the American businessman, has just been heavily sanctioned by FIFA: a ban on signing players for three transfer windows, until the winter of 2027.
The reason? The non-payment of Thiago Almada’s transfer. Signed in July 2024, the player was never fully paid to Atlanta United. The Court of Arbitration for Sport had ruled: €17.9 million to be paid. An amount that has only been partially settled… triggering the sanction.
The recent winner of the Copa Libertadores now finds itself paralyzed in the transfer market, unable to register any reinforcements for over a year.
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Attempt to extinguish the fire
In the face of the storm, Botafogo is trying to reassure. In a statement published on X, the club assures that discussions are ongoing with Atlanta United and that the blockage would be temporary. The negotiations have reportedly just been paused due to the holiday season, with hopes for a quick agreement.
“The club will be very active in the market in January 2026,” promises the management. A statement that mainly sounds like a message to calm the supporters… and to mask the extent of the problem.
After OL, a new front opens for John Textor, whose multi-club management continues to spark controversy. And this time, the consequences are sportingly devastating.
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