Savarino Explains Botafogo Exit & Fluminense Transfer: Key Reasons Revealed

The transfer of Venezuelan footballer Savarino from Botafogo to rival club Fluminense dominated his introductory press conference on Friday, January 30th. Savarino faced numerous questions regarding the move from the club where he was a champion and fan favorite to a direct competitor.

A Change of Scenery

Savarino acknowledged that Botafogo made him available for transfer at the beginning of 2026, but refrained from commenting on whether he felt undervalued. He did, however, outline the factors that led him to accept Fluminense’s offer.

“There are three things that are very important in every decision I make: family stability, the peace that comes with a transfer for my family, and the sporting project, which is the most important thing for my career,” Savarino stated. “There are things you have to ask Botafogo, not me. If you arrive at a club and are listed for sale, then your thinking has to be different… I am calm and very grateful to Botafogo, for everything I did there, for the titles, as I was grateful to Atlético-MG and the clubs I’ve played for. Now I am very focused on Fluminense, I am happy and I will try to give my best here, I hope it will be a winning year for us.”

Did You Know? Savarino won two titles during his time with Botafogo, which he described as “very important” for his career.

Looking Ahead to the Clásico

Savarino expressed continued gratitude towards Botafogo, praising the staff and director. He reiterated that questions regarding the specifics of his departure should be directed to the club. He affirmed his happiness at Fluminense, stating, “The past is in the past and I will live in the present and let God take control of everything.”

He also indicated he does not plan to celebrate if he scores against Botafogo in the upcoming Campeonato Carioca match on Sunday at the Estádio Nilton Santos. “I don’t think [I will celebrate],” he said. “It will be a very special game to play against the Botafogo fans, who had a lot of affection for me during the two years I was there. I also thank them for being fair in this transfer, understanding. It will be special now for Fluminense, I will enjoy it. I try to enjoy all the moments of my career. It will be a good game. I will meet many friends I had at Botafogo. It will be a unique moment.”

Reasons for the Move

Savarino emphasized that family stability was a primary motivator for the transfer. He also highlighted the importance of Fluminense’s sporting project and the peace of mind the move offered his family. He acknowledged his success at Botafogo, where he won two significant titles.

Expert Insight: Savarino’s emphasis on family stability and a compelling sporting project suggests a calculated career move prioritizing both personal well-being and professional advancement. This is a common theme among athletes seeking long-term success.

Negotiation Details

Savarino described the negotiation process as lengthy and not easy for anyone involved, expressing gratitude to Fluminense for their efforts to secure his transfer. He acknowledged the difficulty of moving to a rival club but ultimately prioritized the sporting project and his family’s well-being.

The transfer occurred rapidly, with Savarino receiving Fluminense’s final proposal on the morning of a match against Volta Redonda. He discussed the situation with his coach, noting that the coach subsequently made comments in a press conference that Savarino felt were unnecessary. He also clarified that playing for Botafogo in that match would have disqualified him from playing for Fluminense in the Carioca championship.

Reflecting on 2025

Savarino attributed a dip in performance in 2025 to changes within Botafogo, including the departure of the head coach and key players. Despite these challenges, he maintained his commitment to the club, but is now focused on a new chapter with Fluminense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Savarino made available for transfer by Botafogo?

Savarino stated that Botafogo placed him on the transfer list at the beginning of 2026, but he did not elaborate on the reasons behind this decision.

What were the key factors in Savarino’s decision to join Fluminense?

Savarino cited family stability, the peace of mind the transfer offered his family, and the strength of Fluminense’s sporting project as the primary factors influencing his decision.

Will Savarino celebrate if he scores against Botafogo?

Savarino indicated that he does not intend to celebrate if he scores against his former club, Botafogo, expressing respect for the fans and his time with the team.

Given Savarino’s stated focus on a “winning year” with Fluminense, how might his presence impact the team’s performance in the Campeonato Carioca and beyond?