A product of Flamengo‘s youth academy, midfielder Matheus Gonçalves expressed his gratitude to the Rio de Janeiro club and reaffirmed his focus on Al-Ahli after turning down recent approaches from Vasco and Botafogo.
Midfielder Matheus Gonçalves, a product of Flamengo‘s youth system, has broken his silence regarding the speculation surrounding his name during the last transfer window. Currently playing for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, the player reaffirmed his affection for the Rio de Janeiro club.
In an interview with the portal 365Scores, the youngster explained how he handled approaches from Rio de Janeiro rivals. He assured that he is fully focused on Asian football, where he is trying to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup once again.
Despite approaches from Vasco and Botafogo in September, the Saudi club blocked any negotiations. As a result, the player is keeping his mind focused on the current Saudi Pro League season commitments.
Gratitude to the Rubro-Negro and rejected bids
During the conversation, the young prospect did not hold back on praise for the club that launched him into professional football. Despite limited chances with the senior team, the midfielder considers his time with the Rio de Janeiro club a success.
There are no words to explain my time at Flamengo. It was the club that embraced me, raised me from a young age, and gave me the opportunity to pursue the big dream of becoming a professional. I will always be grateful to Flamengo for everything they did for me and my family.
During the final stretch of the domestic transfer window, Botafogo tabled a loan offer featuring a permanent buyout option set at 12 million euros. Meanwhile, Vasco pursued a permanent transfer by submitting a 10 million euro bid.
However, the Al-Ahli board decided to block the midfielder’s departure. Focused on Saudi pitches, the player prefers to leave contract talks in the hands of his agents.
It’s an honor to have the interest of big clubs in Brazilian football, but I try to shield myself from that at all times, along with my staff, so that I don’t lose my focus on the pitch—which is what matters—to help Al-Ahli.
Transfer figures and current moment in Saudi Arabia
The transfer that took Matheus Gonçalves to the Middle East was completed in August 2025. The deal brought in around 51 million reals to Flamengo‘s coffers, with the club also retaining a 20% economic stake.
Before heading abroad, the youngster won the Under-20 Intercontinental Cup against Barcelona. He also accumulated over 50 appearances for the senior squad and spent a loan spell at Red Bull Bragantino in 2023.
In Saudi Arabia, the midfielder helped his team lift the AFC Champions League trophy. Despite a slow start with limited minutes in his second season, he has been gradually winning back his place.
Upcoming challenges and clash with world stars
Now, the player is preparing for the Asian season’s upcoming fixtures. Al-Ahli visits Al-Fateh this Friday in a match valid for the eighth round of the domestic tournament.
Next, the team will face a major challenge against Al-Nassr, a team led by Cristiano Ronaldo. The reunion with the Portuguese star takes place on the 15th.
While he dedicates himself on the pitch, the athlete’s future remains open. Any eventual future sale will continue to generate revenue for Flamengo, which closely monitors the development of its academy product.
