Fluminense announces the signing of midfielder Gabriel Pires, former Botafogo player | Fluminense

Fluminense announced on Saturday the signing of midfielder Gabriel Pires. The player, who was at Botafogo last season and left Benfica, has signed with Fluminense for two seasons, which can be extended for another season. He will wear shirt number 22.

The 30-year-old played 34 matches for Alvinegro in 2023, 13 of them as a starter, and scored two goals. After recovering from a calf injury, he became a starter in the team in the final stage of the Brazilian League.

– I was very happy when I learned about this interest and when I arrived here in CT, I was well received by everyone and I was able to see the structure. I am very happy to have arrived at this great club that holds many titles, including recently the American Champion. So I was excited about this opportunity to be in a title environment. I came to help, and, God willing, I will achieve more – said the midfielder in an interview with the official website of Fluminense.

Gabriel Pires ended up staying in Alvinegro. Benfica was ready to part with the player, but the decision not to continue with him was made by the owner of the SAF, John Textor, who created a new image for the team that will compete in the Libertadores in 2024.

Gabriel went to Europe at a young age to play for Italian club Juventus. He played for Pro Vercelli, Spezia and Livorno in Italy, Leganés in Spain, and Benfica in Portugal. He then played for Qatari team Al Gharafa before coming to Botafogo in 2023.

– The expectation is the best possible, and the most positive. Before I start, I always think about the highest possible things and do my best. I'm happy to be able to go back to work in Brazil, I've only been here a short time and very few people know me. So I am here to do my best,” he said.

It is Fluminense's fourth reinforcement for 2024. Previously, Tricolor announced the signings of goalkeeper Felipe Alves, defender Antonio Carlos and midfielder Renato Augusto.

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