News

Lyon Secures Thiago Almada’s Loan from Botafogo Amid Financial Restrictions

The French club strengthens its squad with the World Cup-winning Argentine midfielder despite being unable to sign new players this winter.

By Sebastián Hernadez

Foto: redes sociales del Olympique Lyon.
Foto: redes sociales del Olympique Lyon.
Síguenos enSíguenos en Google News

Olympique Lyon, currently facing financial limitations that prevent them from making signings during the winter transfer window, has successfully secured a six-month loan deal for Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada. The 23-year-old, who was part of Argentina's victorious 2022 World Cup squad, joins the French club from Brazil's Botafogo.

The loan deal, which lasts until June 2025, comes despite Lyon's inability to conduct permanent transfers due to their financial situation. While Lyon has not confirmed whether the loan is free of charge, French newspaper L'Équipe has reported that it is. The deal has reportedly been approved by the financial regulatory body overseeing French clubs.

A Rising Star in Global Football

Almada's career trajectory has been impressive. He began his professional journey at Vélez Sarsfield in Argentina at the age of 17, where he played 100 matches, scoring 23 goals and providing 24 assists over four seasons. In 2022, he moved to the United States to play for Atlanta United, where he amassed 26 goals and 24 assists in 80 games between 2022 and 2024.

After representing Argentina in the 2024 Olympic Games, Almada joined Botafogo in Rio de Janeiro. His time at the Brazilian club culminated in winning the Copa Libertadores, with Botafogo defeating Atletico Mineiro 3-1 in the final held in Buenos Aires.

International Glory and Future Prospects

Almada has also been a key player for the Argentine national team, with six international appearances and two goals. As part of Lionel Scaloni's squad, he played an integral role in securing Argentina’s third World Cup title in Qatar in 2022, defeating France in the final.

Key Points:

  • Loan Deal: Olympique Lyon has secured a six-month loan for Thiago Almada from Botafogo.
  • Financial Restrictions: The loan is possible despite Lyon being unable to sign new players due to financial issues.
  • World Cup Champion: Almada was part of Argentina’s World Cup-winning squad in 2022.
  • Career Milestones: Almada has played for Vélez Sarsfield, Atlanta United, and Botafogo, winning the Copa Libertadores with the latter.
  • International Experience: Almada has represented Argentina six times, scoring two goals, and participated in the 2024 Olympic Games.

More news