Botafogo rose from the second division to become champions of Brazil and South America and recorded a win over Paris Saint-Germain at the FIFA Club World Cup. The club's scouting identified standout players like Igor Jesus, signed on a free transfer from Shabab Al Ahli and later sold to Nottingham Forest, and goalkeeper Lucas Perri, who moved via Lyon to Leeds United after a strong 2023 at Botafogo. Goalkeeper John Victor nearly transferred to West Ham United but chose to remain and produced an assured performance in a 1-0 Copa Libertadores win over Liga de Quito. Investment aided the rise, but scouting uncovered overlooked talent who delivered results.
The outstanding example is center forward Igor Jesus, signed on a free transfer from Shabab Al Ahli a year ago and now made a move to the Premier League at Nottingham Forest. There is also goalkeeper Lucas Perri, who was a reserve at São Paulo until he was signed by Botafogo, where he enjoyed a magnificent 2023. Now, via Lyon, he moves to Leeds United.
Terms were agreed between the clubs, but at the last minute, goalkeeper John Victor decided to stay with Botafogo rather than cross the Atlantic to join West Ham United. The temptation to try his luck in the Premier League was understandable, but after some tense moments, the Botafogo fans appear to have forgiven his flirt with a move abroad, and he was welcomed back last Thursday, giving a typically assured performance as his team beat Liga de Quito of Ecuador 1-0 in the Copa Libertadores.
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