Inside Flamengo’s dramatic pursuit of Carrascal | OneFootball

Jorge Carrascal’s introduction at Flamengo finally ended a protracted and tense negotiation, a saga that, according to UOL, left both the club and the Colombian midfielder frustrated before reaching a positive conclusion with his official unveiling at Ninho do Urubu.

The deal to bring Carrascal from Dynamo Moscow was far from straightforward. Flamengo ultimately agreed to a €12 million fee but encountered repeated delays as talks with the Russian side opened and collapsed multiple times—apparently eight in total. Flamengo’s football director José Boto admitted, “I was the first to lose patience with this transfer,” emphasizing the persistence required by the club’s legal staff as well as the player’s own determination.

Carrascal, who had already told those close to him he wanted to join Flamengo back in June while on Colombia duty, reinforced his intent by consulting with countrymen playing in Brazil—conversations with Richard Rios, Borré, and Jhon Arias, as well as exchanges with former River Plate teammate De La Cruz, bolstered his resolve.

The most stubborn obstacle came from Dynamo Moscow, who were reluctant to sanction Carrascal’s move, preferring to keep a player who had adapted well to Russia. Their position shifted only after securing Rubens from Atlético Mineiro as his replacement. This three-way deal was complicated further by financial logistics—sanctions affecting Russian clubs meant Flamengo would pay Rubens’s fee directly to Atlético Mineiro, while the remainder of the Carrascal purchase price, about €4 million, would go straight to Dynamo.

There was also a matter of trust. Russia’s insistence on receiving payment before releasing Carrascal’s transfer documents led to a stand-off. Flamengo maintained that the process must begin within FIFA’s system before funds were released, reaffirming their reliability as customers. With the assurance given and the formalities resolved, the move could finally proceed, bringing relief on all sides.

Reflecting on the arduous wait, Carrascal described the emotional impact of the drawn-out process: “It was a long and stressful period for me, but I always tried to stay positive. Joining Flamengo is a huge opportunity.”

Flamengo view Carrascal as a vital addition for midfield depth, particularly with Arrascaeta unable to maintain a heavy match schedule. Though Arrascaeta exited the recent draw with Ceará with a thigh complaint, subsequent medical checks cleared him for selection. Carrascal must still await his registration in the Brazilian FA’s system before being eligible to debut, with the target being Saturday’s league tie versus Mirassol.

This transfer saga, with its multiple flashpoints and logistical hurdles, ultimately ended with Carrascal donning the Flamengo number 15, poised to bring much-needed creative flexibility to the squad.

(Source: UOL)