River Plate has revealed the behind-the-scenes story of the negotiation that led them to sign Thiago Almada, frustrating Flamengo’s bid.
South American football was abuzz with the recent revelation from River Plate‘s vice-president, Ignacio Villarroel. He detailed how the Argentine club managed to outmaneuver Flamengo in the race to sign promising midfielder Thiago Almada. Speaking at Confut Sudamericana, an event that brings together prominent figures from the South American football scene, Villarroel laid out the strategy that secured the player’s arrival.
According to the executive, the successful acquisition of Almada, along with other key signings like Correa, Andrada, and Otamendi, stemmed from a project focused on the internationalization of the River Plate brand. This initiative enabled the club to establish a more robust economic structure, allowing them to compete for top talent without jeopardizing their finances. Villarroel highlighted the financial disparity between the clubs, noting that while Flamengo generates approximately US$ 80 million in television revenue, River Plate operates with a significantly smaller budget, around US$ 8 million.
Flamengo Admits Failed Negotiation
Flamengo‘s pursuit of Thiago Almada was publicly confirmed by director José Boto. He admitted that the negotiation, which at the time involved Atlético de Madrid (ESP) as the club holding the player’s rights, could not be finalized due to the Brazilian club’s “financial responsibility.” The inability to secure Almada for the Rubro-Negro ultimately led to the signing of other players for Leonardo Jardim’s squad, including Anthony Valencia and Joaquín Freitas.
Almada on Flamengo’s Radar
Despite his transfer to River Plate, Thiago Almada‘s name continues to resonate among Flamengo fans, especially following his standout performances, such as an assist in a victory over Independiente Rivadavia (ARG). Currently, Flamengo is concentrating its efforts on the Libertadores, as they prepare to face Independiente del Valle (ECU) in Quito for the quarter-finals.
It’s worth noting that, according to journalist João Vítor Reis, Villarroel’s statements might contain an element of self-promotion, aimed at enhancing River Plate’s image at an industry event. The journalist suggests that the comparison, while presented as a decisive factor, does not fully reflect the Flamengo brand’s superior global reach.
