Arthur Botafogo: A painful farewell? Inside the São Paulo loan deal and what’s next for the No.98

There comes a time in every fan's life when you just have to take a deep breath and face reality. If you’re a Botafogo supporter, this Friday (28th) is proving particularly tough. The name on everyone’s lips—on sports shows, in WhatsApp groups, everywhere—is the same: Arthur Botafogo. Or rather, Arthur Cabral, the No.98 who won the hearts of the Estrela Solitária faithful and now looks set to have his days at the Nilton Santos numbered. What were just whispers have now gathered serious momentum, and the negotiations with São Paulo are much further along than many realised.

I know, I know… it stings. Especially because we’re not talking about just anyone. This is a player who wore that black and white mantle in a way few have managed in recent years. Anyone who follows closely knows it wasn’t just about the goals. It was the commitment, the grit, and that sense of timing in the box that had us breaking routine to buy the Arthur Cabral #98 Botafogo 2025-26 Home Jersey Black. That plain black shirt he used to silence opposition fans time and again. And if you prefer something a bit bolder, I have to mention the Arthur Cabral #98 Botafogo 2025-26 Fourth Jersey Black, which has become a collector's item. It’s a shirt that carries the spirit of a team that, even under pressure, never gave up.

What’s really going on behind the scenes?

Let me give you the lowdown on what’s happening away from the cameras, because there are plenty of so-called 'experts' online talking nonsense. The situation is this: Botafogo and São Paulo are deep in talks. The initial plan is a loan, but not just any loan. The deal includes a purchase option that’s very appealing for the Morumbi side. It’s the same old story: the player wants game time, São Paulo need a proper number nine so they’re not solely reliant on Calleri (who’s always a risk injury-wise), and Botafogo, despite their reluctance, know they have to balance the books and free up space in the squad.

Anyone who’s been in Rio over the last few days will have heard around the training ground that the mood is one of “resigned acceptance”. The board tried what they could to hold onto him, but when a club of São Paulo’s stature comes knocking with a solid project, it’s hard to keep the player. And let’s be honest: Arthur has already shown he’s up for this new challenge. There’s no point in fans burning shirts or hurling abuse on social media. He gave his all here. If he leaves, he deserves to do so through the front door, with his head held high.

• Loan with option to buy: This is the model that works for all three parties. São Paulo get time to assess the player’s impact, and Botafogo avoid a messy, abrupt departure.
• The Arthur Aguiar factor: No, not the actor. But it’s curious how searches for the term Arthur Aguiar have spiked alongside this transfer story. The internet is a strange place, but it shows how Arthur Cabral has become a popular figure, transcending the sport.
• Squad impact: Who takes over the number 9 role? That’s the big question. Botafogo are already working their contacts to bring in a replacement of similar calibre. They won’t leave the team in the lurch.

What to expect in the coming hours?

If you’re hoping for a dramatic, last-minute twist, I’m afraid not. From what’s being said behind the scenes, everyone’s patience has been tested. São Paulo have sorted out the bureaucratic hurdles and have a verbal agreement in place. Yes, a verbal agreement. In Brazilian football, between two serious boards, that’s practically a signed deal. Expect medicals to take place in the coming days and the move to become official.

For Botafogo fans, it’s the memories that remain. Memories of that season when the team played with such freedom and Arthur Botafogo was synonymous with danger. Those who bought the black shirt, whether the Home or Fourth Jersey, will know they own a piece of that history. As for São Paulo fans, get ready: you’re getting a real goalscorer. A striker who doesn’t hide in big games, who knows how to handle pressure, and if he takes to Morumbi, he’s going to make a real name for himself.

The transfer window waits for no one. Even as we speak, contract documents are being reviewed. Now it’s a case of sitting tight and waiting for the official announcement—whether you’re dreading it or looking forward to it. A good deal is one where everyone feels it’s worked out. And in this case, it seems all parties deserve credit for handling it professionally. Arthur Cabral #98… the story isn’t over, it’s just starting a new chapter.