Leila explains Palmeiras allowing Weverton free exit, says 12 titles were the compensation | OneFootball

Leila Pereira has explained why Palmeiras agreed to let Weverton leave for Grêmio, calling it a respectful farewell that reflected the goalkeeper’s wish to move.

"I was very emotional, it is a farewell to a great athlete and a great person. He had a contract until the end of the year, we wanted to renew until the end of 2027, but he told me Grêmio’s offer was very good," she said, adding that he came to her personally to discuss it. She told TNT.

Palmeiras began the season with Carlos Miguel as first choice, but Weverton said the decision was not about competition for the shirt. "People might think I do not want to be on the bench. It has nothing to do with that. It is about knowing your time. I understood and Palmeiras understood that this was the time. The story is written with fight, respect and sacrifice," he told Caze TV.

At the club since 2018 and with a deal due to expire in December, Weverton could have signed a pre-contract from July. He received a 3-year proposal from Grêmio and signalled his intention to go, with Carlos Miguel set to be confirmed as starter.

Given the relationship built and the contract nearing its end, Palmeiras released the number 21 without a fee. "The compensation that Weverton brought us were the 12 titles, how could I deny it when an athlete like him asks me. I did not think about financial compensation, but about the history this great athlete delivered to Palmeiras," Leila said.

Source: Globo.com