Key figure in recent titles, Tiquinho expresses wish to return to Botafogo | OneFootball

The chant “uh, terror, Tiquinho is a killer” may once again echo at Nilton Santos. Amidst the planning for the 2026 season, news has stirred up the backstage at Botafogo and the hearts of the black-and-white fans: the club has started talks with striker Tiquinho Soares about a possible return. A recent idol and a key player in the club’s Brasileirão and Libertadores triumphs in 2024, the center forward is not expected to remain at Santos and is looking favorably at a return home.

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The negotiation, however, is considered “difficult for now” by the board, but it has a powerful asset: the player’s desire. Tiquinho has not only expressed his wish to wear the black-and-white shirt again, but he is also willing to make a financial sacrifice to make the dream come true.

Currently at Santos, with a contract until the end of 2027, Tiquinho Soares is not experiencing the peak of his time in Brazilian football. After a good start to the year, the 34-year-old player lost his place, especially under coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda, and leaving the São Paulo club is seen as a mutual desire.

In this scenario, Botafogo emerges as the dream destination for the striker. According to reports, Tiquinho has already indicated that he would accept a pay cut—currently around R$ 1.5 million per month—to facilitate the reunion with the fans who embraced him so much. To help even further, Santos itself would be willing to cover part of his salary in a possible loan deal.

Is there room for Tiquinho at Botafogo?

Despite the affection and Tiquinho’s victorious history at the club, Botafogo’s board is analyzing the situation with caution. Currently, coach Davide Ancelotti has three options for the attack: starter Arthur Cabral, immediate backup Chris Ramos, and the promising youngster Kadir.

At first, the search for a center forward is not a priority in the club’s planning. However, the club is keeping an eye on the market and recognizes the need for a more mobile striker, a trait Tiquinho displayed masterfully during his peak season in 2023, when he scored 29 goals in 54 matches.

Tiquinho’s numbers at Botafogo

Tiquinho Soares’ spell at Botafogo, from 2022 to 2024, was remarkable. In 120 matches, he found the net 44 times and provided 17 assists, becoming a technical reference and a leader on the field. His departure to Santos at the start of 2025 was felt by the fans, who are now filled with hope at the possibility of his return.

While talks are ongoing, Tiquinho’s future remains uncertain. Other clubs, such as Coritiba, have also made inquiries about the player, but his high salary is an obstacle. For Botafogo fans, there is hope that the player’s desire and the club’s recognition of his history can overcome the difficulties and seal a reunion that has everything to be a happy one in 2026.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.