Director José Boto raised his tone while commenting on the failed negotiations for Thiago Almada, firing criticism at the financial management of other Brazilian football clubs.
Flamengo‘s pursuit of high-profile international signings hit a wall of austerity. During a press conference to introduce new arrivals Anthony and Joaquín, football director José Boto explained the behind-the-scenes of the failed attempt to sign midfielder Thiago Almada, revealing that the club’s fiscal responsibility was the main obstacle to finalizing the deal.
According to the executive, the Mais Querido maintains a cautious stance to avoid future crises—a priority he claims is lacking in many other clubs across the national scene. The statement calls into question the sustainability of rivals who frequently face sanctions, such as transfer bans, due to outstanding financial obligations.
Flamengo’s financial strategy
Flamengo had presented a robust offer of around 30 million euros for 50% of Almada‘s economic rights. However, the player’s salary demands and the board’s strict spending control policy stalled the deal. Meanwhile, River Plate finalized the signing for a lower fee, closing the transaction at approximately 20 million euros.
José Boto stated:
There was one more player we wanted, I won’t hide it, which was Almada, and it fell through, as you say. It fell through because we have some financial responsibility. The president enforces it; he is not irresponsible.
A jab at the national market
The director did not hold back when comparing the Rio-based club’s management to that of other Brazilian giants. For Boto, the pursuit of immediate results has led managers to commit budgetary recklessness that puts the future of their institutions at risk.
The director pointed out:
If we had 50% of the irresponsibility of other Brazilian clubs, we would win for the next 20 years. But we don’t; we are responsible, we want to pay everyone, and that is why this third signing fell through.
Despite the frustration over missing out on the target, the club remains focused on its upcoming challenges in the Brazilian Serie A. The coaching staff is looking to integrate the new pieces into the squad quickly, aiming to maintain competitiveness without compromising long-term financial planning. The team’s next official match is this Sunday (06) against Remo at the Mangueirão stadium, at 4:00 PM.
Equipe M360
