FIFA sanctioned Brazilian powerhouse Botafogo, imposing a three-window ban effective December 31, 2025. This severe penalty results from a formal complaint filed directly by MLS side Atlanta United, who are claiming that $21 million remains unpaid from the 2024 transfer of Argentine star Thiago Almada. Before joining Atletico Madrid in July via a loan to Lyon, Almada led Botafogo to Copa Libertadores glory.

Botafogo, owned by American tycoon John Textor through Eagle Football Holdings, acknowledged the debt. They stated that settlement talks with Atlanta are paused for the holidays but aim to resolve the issue before the January window commences. Textor’s conglomerate, which also manages Lyon, faces ongoing financial scrutiny across its portfolio.

His ownership previously complicated Crystal Palace’s European campaign. Consequently, this ban intensifies pressure on Textor’s multi-club network as they attempt to navigate these complex financial obligations and regulatory hurdles while struggling to maintain competitive stability.