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FIFA Bans Botafogo From Registering Players for Three Windows Over Unpaid Almada Deal

The sanction follows Atlanta United's complaint over unpaid installments on Thiago Almada's 2024 transfer.

Overview

  • FIFA confirmed a registration prohibition effective Wednesday that bars Botafogo from adding players for the next three transfer windows.
  • Atlanta United filed a claim over a reported $21 million agreement from July 2024, saying only two scheduled payments were made under the staggered plan.
  • Botafogo said negotiations with Atlanta United have been constructive, paused for the year-end break, and will resume shortly.
  • The club stated it expects to resolve the case before the next window and said it plans to be very active in January 2026 signings if the issue is settled.
  • The dispute unfolds alongside financial and governance strains tied to owner John Textor's Eagle Football Holdings, with related legal tensions involving Lyon.