Bournemouth Goalkeeper Returns to Brazil with Botafogo Move | OneFootball

Bournemouth Say Farewell as Neto Joins Botafogo

Goalkeeper Neto has left Bournemouth to join Brazilian side Botafogo in a permanent deal, as confirmed by The Athletic. The move brings an end to the 36-year-old’s two-year stay on the south coast and marks a return to Brazil’s Serie A for the first time since 2010, when he played for Athletico Paranaense.

Signed on a free transfer from Barcelona in August 2022, Neto quickly established himself as Andoni Iraola’s first-choice goalkeeper. His assured handling, leadership and experience from playing in Europe’s top competitions brought a measure of calm to the Cherries’ defence. However, last season saw him lose his starting place, eventually spending time on loan at Arsenal.

Photo: IMAGO

Career in England and Influence at Bournemouth

Neto made 63 appearances for Bournemouth, providing stability in the club’s first campaign back in the Premier League after promotion. His commanding presence and ability to organise the back line made him a key figure in the dressing room.

While his playing time diminished, his professionalism remained. His experience, gained from spells at Fiorentina, Juventus, Valencia and Barcelona, gave Bournemouth’s younger players a valuable role model during their adjustment to top-flight demands.

Summer Changes Between the Posts

Neto’s departure follows that of fellow goalkeeper Mark Travers, who joined Everton for £4 million earlier in the window. It leaves Bournemouth with a clear need to reinforce their goalkeeping department before the season begins. The club are expected to target a long-term replacement capable of competing at Premier League level.

With Iraola aiming to evolve his squad and adopt a more progressive style of play, there is likely to be an emphasis on recruiting a goalkeeper comfortable in possession as well as defensively reliable.

Photo: IMAGO

Return to Brazil and New Chapter with Botafogo

For Neto, the move represents a homecoming and an opportunity to play regularly again. Botafogo, one of Brazil’s most historic clubs, are competing for honours in both domestic and continental competitions, and his signing signals their intent to strengthen in key positions.

After 13 years abroad, Neto’s return is likely to be warmly welcomed in Brazil. His experience from Europe could prove invaluable in guiding Botafogo’s younger talents through the demands of top-tier football.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Bournemouth supporters, Neto’s departure feels like the end of a brief but important chapter. When he arrived from Barcelona, there was uncertainty over whether his age and lack of recent playing time would hinder him. Instead, he quickly became a reassuring presence behind a defence still adapting to Premier League life.

His leadership was arguably as important as his performances. In matches where Bournemouth faced sustained pressure, Neto’s communication and composure helped steady the team. The fact that he lost his starting role last season reflects more on the club’s evolving needs than on his individual decline.

The challenge now lies in replacing two goalkeepers in one window. Travers’ exit already created a gap, but losing Neto removes experience and depth. Supporters will be watching closely to see if the recruitment team opt for an established Premier League option or take a calculated gamble on a younger, developing goalkeeper.

For Neto, the move to Botafogo offers the chance to finish his career in his homeland, potentially adding silverware to his CV. Cherries fans will likely wish him well, recognising the steadying role he played during a crucial period for the club.