In a significant move for Spanish football, Atletico Madrid has officially confirmed an agreement with Brazilian side Botafogo to secure the services of 2022 World Cup champion Thiago Almada. This transfer marks a notable addition to Atletico’s roster as they look to bolster their squad for the upcoming season.
“The club has announced that an agreement has been reached with the Brazilian side, subject to the player successfully completing the necessary medical examination and signing the contract,” the La Liga outfit stated on social media.
The 24-year-old Argentinian showcased his skills during the latter part of last season while on loan at Lyon, netting two goals and providing five assists across 20 appearances in all competitions for the French side.
Almada boasts 10 appearances for his national team and played a pivotal role in their triumphant World Cup campaign in Qatar. He showcased his talent on the international stage by representing Argentina at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The right-footed attacking midfielder emerged from the youth system at Velez Sarsfield, making his professional debut in 2018 at just 17 years old.
In 2022, he made a significant move to MLS side Atlanta, where he quickly made a name for himself by being voted the league’s best rookie following an impressive debut season.
Almada’s impressive performances secured him a transfer to Botafogo last summer.
The player featured in 26 matches for the club based in Rio de Janeiro, clinching both the Brazilian league title and the Copa Libertadores, before making a loan move to Lyon in January.
