Amid uncertainties, John Textor blocks Palmeiras and Flamengo from signing Danilo, projecting a European future or a glorious stay at Botafogo.
Even after being removed from command of Botafogo’sSAF, John Textor maintains his active and provocative voice in the Brazilian football landscape. In an exclusive interview with Itatiaia, the American businessman outlined an ambitious plan for the future of Danilo, the highly-valued midfielder for Glorioso, categorically rejecting the possibility of a transfer to national rivals.
Textor’s declaration ignites a heated debate. By vetoing Palmeiras and Flamengo as possible destinations, he reinforces his view that the player should aim for greater heights in Europe or remain at General Severiano, fighting for titles. A stance that, even outside of management, still echoes with the passion and controversy that have always marked his time at the club.
Danilo’s Dilemma and the National Market
Midfielder Danilo represents one of the most valuable assets of the black-and-white squad. His situation, however, is delicate: sidelined by his own decision before the World Cup, he has already played 12 matches in the Brazilian Serie A, a number that makes him ineligible to play for another Serie A club in the same season. This condition, combined with his quality, naturally attracted the interest of giants like Palmeiras and Flamengo.
But for Textor, Danilo’s path is different. The businessman does not hesitate to state his desire to see the athlete establish himself on the European stage, or, if that doesn’t happen, that he remains wearing the Botafogo jersey in the incessant pursuit of trophies.
Textor’s Vision: Europe or Staying with Glorioso
The former executive got straight to the point when discussing the young talent’s future. “He (Danilo) needs to go to Europe, and Europe wants him. Or else he will stay with us. Actually, I should have said that first. I want him to stay with us, finish the season. I want to win a title, because our goal is to seek trophies,” Textor told Itatiaia, underscoring the interest from clubs in the Old Continent. “There is great interest from Europe in him,” he reiterated.
This stance contrasts with that of other athletes who left the club, such as Alexander Barboza and Marlon Freitas, both now at Palmeiras. Textor highlighted the difference: “It’s different when the player is near the end of his career. But when we are talking about an incredible young athlete, perhaps the best in the Brazilian Serie A, he needs to play for Botafogo or return to Europe. This is the path we promised him. We made an agreement.“
Investment and Loyalty: John Textor’s Perspective
The acquisition of Danilo by Botafogo from Nottingham Forest was a milestone, becoming the most expensive in the club’s history, in an investment of 22 million euros. Textor revealed a personal connection with the player, promising support in his recovery from an ankle fracture and projection for the Brazil national team and the World Cup.
“I made strong statements about Danilo previously because I was trying to send a message to the fans about how to deal with this type of situation… I care deeply about Danilo,” Textor said. He added, emphasizing the importance of loyalty: “We expect a bit of loyalty from you, because we cannot see you go to our competitor. That cannot happen.”
The Next Chapter: The Ball Is In Botafogo’s SAF’s Court
Despite the vehemence in John Textor’s words, the bureaucratic reality is that, outside of the SAF’s command, the final decision on Danilo’s future no longer rests with him. Botafogo’s management now has full autonomy to define the next steps.
Palmeiras and Flamengo remain watchful, with the São Paulo-based club showing greater impetus and considering an offer after the World Cup, when the European transfer market will also be active. Danilo’s performance in the World Cup, played in North America by the Brazil national team, will be a decisive factor for his valuation and for the outcome of this saga. What does the future hold for the midfielder and for the hearts of the black-and-white fans?
