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Botafogo: The Millionaire Team Ready for the Libertadores Final
Botafogo, the ambitious project of American magnate John Textor, is set to face Atlético Mineiro in the Copa Libertadores final, boasting several internationals, including the current number 9 of the Brazilian national team.
According to Transfermarkt, the Rio-based club holds the third most valuable squad in Brazil, worth $140 million, trailing only behind Flamengo and Palmeiras.
- JOHN VICTOR: At nearly two meters tall, he has taken over as the team's goalkeeper this year, replacing Paraguayan Roberto 'Gatito' Fernández. A product of Santos, he played in the 2020 Libertadores final and was loaned to Spain's Real Valladolid.
- VITINHO: A mid-year reinforcement from Burnley, where he was coached by Belgian ex-player and manager Vincent Kompany. Vitinho is versatile, capable of playing on both flanks or up front.
- BASTOS: The Angolan center-back is a defensive stalwart. Botafogo marks his first foray into South American football, following stints in Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Italy with Lazio.
- ALEXANDER BARBOZA: The Argentine defender forms a formidable pairing with Bastos. A River Plate academy product, he joined the Rio team this year. Known for his strong aerial ability and passionate play.
- ALEX TELLES: A Brazilian international left-back with an offensive profile. Telles has played for some of Europe's top clubs, including Inter Milan, Manchester United, Porto, and Sevilla.
- GREGORE: This year's arrival from Inter Miami provides balance to the team. He rarely ventures forward, focusing on efficiency in defense. His physicality is key in marking and ball retrieval.
- MARLON FREITAS: The captain, raised in Fluminense, has spent most of his career in Brazil, with brief spells in the United States and Slovakia.
- JEFFERSON SAVARINO: A star of the Venezuelan national team, he plays as an attacking midfielder but can also operate on the wings. From Zulia, he moved to Real Salt Lake in the MLS before starting his Brazilian journey at Atlético Mineiro, Botafogo's upcoming opponents.
- THIAGO ALMADA: The young Argentine playmaker, destined for a January move to Olympique Lyon (also managed by Textor), is the brains of Botafogo. His ability to navigate tight spaces and his vision are his standout attributes.
- LUIZ HENRIQUE: One of Brazilian football's priciest signings, this left-footed winger starts on the right. His pace and long-range shooting are notable. Henrique returned to Brazil after a challenging stint at Real Betis in Spain and has recently been implicated in an illegal sports betting investigation.
- IGOR JESUS: The current number 9 for Brazil and one of the breakout strikers of the year. He joined Botafogo on a free transfer from Shabab Al Ahli of the UAE and quickly established himself as a key player, scoring eight goals so far.
Don't miss the CONMEBOL Libertadores Final between Atletico Mineiro and Botafogo, this Sunday at 2:50 PM ET EXCLUSIVELY on beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS en Español.