The potential signing of Thiago Almada by Flamengo has taken an unexpected turn: the Argentine midfielder is now the target of a FIFA investigation due to an altercation in the 2026 World Cup final.
The movement behind the scenes in the red-and-black transfer market has been significantly impacted by an external interference. Thiago Almada, currently with Atlético de Madrid (ESP) and Flamengo‘s primary target to strengthen their squad, has come under the scrutiny of world football’s governing body. The reason stems from incidents of indiscipline recorded immediately after the final whistle of the World Cup final.
FIFA has initiated a rigorous procedure to investigate the conduct of the Argentina national team throughout the tournament, focusing on aggressions, abusive behavior, and political demonstrations. According to ‘The Athletic’ newspaper, the governing body seeks to apply severe sanctions not only to the national federation but also to athletes directly involved in incidents of violence on the MetLife Stadium pitch.
Thiago Almada’s Involvement in the Altercation
The investigation details the participation of four Argentinians in unsportsmanlike conduct. In addition to Leandro Paredes, who was sent off by referee Slavko Vinčić in the heat of the match, full-back Molina, assistant coach Roberto Ayala, and Thiago Almada himself were notified.
The midfielder, a key player in Flamengo‘s football department plans, was caught participating in a direct confrontation against Gavi and Eric Garcia, players from Spain. Although he did not receive a red card on the occasion, FIFA‘s record of his “unsportsmanlike conduct” casts a shadow over his international image.
Negotiations Continue, Affirms José Boto
Despite the negative news from Zurich, Flamengo remains optimistic. Football director, José Boto, reaffirmed that the club is still in active talks for the player and described the negotiation as a long-term process that requires patience from the fans.
“He is a player who interests us, and we are working on it. It’s not an easy signing for several reasons, but we are working, and I am confident we will succeed. Talking is easy; doing is harder. The intention in negotiations is to ensure we get the best possible conditions,” Boto highlighted in a recent interview with ‘Prime Video’.
The legal impact of this investigation on Thiago Almada‘s career and his availability for potential suspensions is now one of the points being monitored by M360. Flamengo continues to hope to move forward with the deal, balancing technical desire with the necessary legal certainty to make this significant signing possible in this transfer window.
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