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

Flamengo will receive 25% of the $300,000 sale (around R$ 1.5 million)

Center back João Pedro Da Mata said goodbye to Flamengo on Monday (13). That is because Konyaspor (TUR) signed the 20-year-old red-and-black gem for $300,000 (around R$ 1.5 million). As a result, 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, the player said in a video posted on his Instagram profile, before adding:

— I lived unique moments, with coaches who taught me and helped me develop a lot. Showing me what it truly means to be Flamengo, I take with me people and friendships that I will carry for the rest of my life, said Da Mata, as he is known 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 defender’s first youth club, owns the other 75% of the youngster’s economic rights.

Has the Turkish team already announced the defender?

The red-and-black prospect was officially announced by the Turkish club on Tuesday (14). The Brazilian will wear the No. 41 shirt for the team in Turkey’s top division. The club that signed Da Mata finished ninth in the domestic league last season.

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

How did Da Mata do at Flamengo?

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

In the 2026 season, Da Mata has made 20 appearances across the Libertadores, Copa Rio, and the Brasileirão under-20 competition. As such, the defender 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.