Da Mata, Flamengo gem, bids farewell for move to Turkey's Konyaspor | OneFootball

Flamengo will receive 25% of the 300-thousand-dollar sale (around R$ 1.5 million)

Center back João Pedro Da Mata said goodbye to Flamengo on Monday (13). That is because Konyaspor (TUR) bought the 20-year-old red-and-black jewel for 300 thousand dollars (around R$ 1.5 million). Thus, the academy product thanked the club that developed him.

View this photo on Instagram   A post shared by Da Mata 🫡 (@damata41)

— I arrived in 2024, knowing the responsibility I would carry by wearing yet another heavyweight shirt in my career — said the player in a video posted on his Instagram profile, and added:

— I lived unique moments, with coaches who taught me and helped me develop a lot. Showing me what it really means to be Flamengo, I take with me people and friendships that I’ll carry for the rest of my life — said Da Mata, as he is called by his teammates.

How did Flamengo negotiate Da Mata?

Despite the sale, the Most Beloved will keep only 25% of the amount Konyaspor will pay. That is because Grêmio, the center back’s first development club, holds the other 75% of the youngster’s economic rights.

Has the Turkish team already announced the center back?

The announcement of the red-and-black prospect by the Turkish club came this Tuesday (14). The Brazilian will wear the No. 41 shirt for the Turkish first-division side. The team that signed Da Mata finished ninth in the national league last season.

“I arrive highly motivated for this new challenge and phase in my career! Ready to wear this shirt and write a story together here! Let’s go, Konyaspor,” said the youngster in his first words wearing the new uniform.

How did Da Mata perform at Flamengo?

Da Mata stood out in Flamengo’s under-20 team. In addition to his defensive solidity, the center back also drew attention for his attacking performances. After all, the academy product scored eight goals during his spell with the Rubro-Negro.

In the 2026 season, Da Mata has played 20 matches across the Libertadores, Copa Rio, and the Brazilian under-20 league. Thus, the center back has scored four goals and provided one assist this year.

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