Gazeta Esportiva.com
·7 February 2026
Arias hits back at Fluminense fans’ criticism after Palmeiras announcement

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Yahoo sportsGazeta Esportiva.com
·7 February 2026

After being announced by Palmeiras, Jhon Arias published an open letter on his social media. The forward defended himself after Fluminense fans recalled a promise made by the Colombian.
In July 2025, the 28-year-old athlete promised he would only return to Brazil to play for the Tricolor das Laranjeiras, where he stood out. This Saturday, however, Arias was confirmed as a reinforcement for Verdão.
“I am living an important moment in my career. I know the weight of my words, of what I say and think. At the same time, life and football are very dynamic. Considering what was really possible at this moment and what was in my hands, I had to make decisions,” he wrote.
“I am now starting a new chapter in my life and career, always thanking everyone who truly supports me,” he added.
On social media, several Fluminense fans criticized Arias.
“Judas, mercenary,” “what anger! I thought this one was different, that he had his word” and “all the worst for you” were some comments on the player's announcement photo.
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Arias was at Wolverhampton, the bottom team of the English Championship. He signed with Palmeiras until the end of 2029.
The Colombian was already an old dream of Verdão. The Palmeiras board tried to take him from Fluminense before he signed with Wolves last year. For the English team, which is currently not in a good phase, the player played 26 games, scored two goals, and provided one assist.
During his time at Fluminense, between 2021 and 2025, he distributed assists and was one of the top assist providers in the country and South America, totaling 55 assists and 47 goals overall.
OPEN LETTER
I am living an important moment in my career. I know the weight of my words, of what I say and think.
At the same time, life and football are very dynamic. Considering what was really possible at this moment and what was in my hands, I had to make decisions.
I am now starting a new chapter in my life and career, always thanking everyone who truly supports me.
Jhon Arias
See this photo on Instagram A post shared by SE Palmeiras (@palmeiras)
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.
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