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Atlético Madrid has bolstered their midfield ahead of the 2025/26 season, following the signings of Álex Baena and Johnny Cardoso. The club has now officially welcomed Argentine playmaker Thiago Almada from Botafogo. The 24-year-old has signed a contract that extends until 2030. Atlético has agreed to pay €21 million for 50% of Almada’s rights from the Brazilian club.
This transfer is notably complex. Almada was sold by Atlanta United to the Eagle Group, owned by American investor John Textor, in July 2024 for €27 million, making him the second most expensive player in MLS history. He then moved to Botafogo with hopes of a permanent transfer to Olympique Lyon in January 2025. This transfer was completed on January 15, 2025. However, severe financial difficulties at Lyon prompted a change in club leadership to avert relegation from Ligue 1.
Ares, the investment fund that is the primary creditor of Lyon, removed Textor from the presidency and installed Michele Kang, also from the U.S., as the new president. Due to the club’s reported debts of around €175 million, Lyon was unable to finalize Almada’s transfer, leading to his return to Botafogo instead of a permanent transfer to Ligue 1.
Almada Joins Atlético Madrid – LaLiga Side Finally Secures Their Playmaker
Almada found himself in a challenging situation. A 2022 World Cup winner, he has long aspired to play in one of Europe’s top leagues. His previous move from Atlanta to Botafogo was strategically aimed at facilitating a transition to Lyon. Consequently, Almada sought alternative options this summer, while Atlético Madrid, whom he had long piqued interest from, remained eager to sign him during his time in Major League Soccer.
What type of player will Atlético Madrid be acquiring in Almada? Known as a classic no.10, Almada embodies the traits of an old-school playmaker with a remarkable long-range shot. His highlight reels on YouTube continue to showcase the stunning goals scored by the Argentine. This alignment in style is no coincidence; Almada has cited legendary Argentine playmaker Juan Román Riquelme as his primary idol. “For me, my main idol was always Riquelme,” Almada shared in a March 2024 interview with Transfermarkt.
