The Internacional football club has made headlines with its latest signing, securing 22-year-old midfielder Diego Rosa from Lommel SK, part of Belgium's second division. This move marks a significant point in Rosa's career, as he returns to Brazil after several years abroad.
Diego Rosa, who was originally trained at the famed Grêmio academy, is no stranger to Brazilian football fans. He was sold to Grupo City for approximately 24 million euros (around R$ 144 million at the time) back in mid-2020, following his standout performances with Brazil's Under-17 national team, where he was part of the squad crowned champions of the World Cup. Despite his early promise, Rosa's career took unexpected turns through various loans, including stints at Vizela in Portugal and Bahia, where he faced challenges securing consistent playing time.
This latest transfer, reported initially by journalist Vágner Martins, has seen Rosa part ways with Lommel, where he had only limited exposure and played 18 matches this season, scoring six goals. Rosa's potential, nonetheless, continues to draw attention. His familiarity with coach Roger Machado from their time together at Grêmio has likely played a pivotal role in Inter's decision to pursue him. "Diego is coming. He is going to replace Thiago Maia as another second midfielder," said Martins, confirming the move's urgency as the transfer window rapidly approaches its end on February 28.
After his recent spell with Bahia, where Rosa recorded only one goal across 30 matches, there were whispers about his future. Notably, he openly admitted to contemplating retirement from football due to frustration over his lack of opportunities. This reflects not only the pressures young athletes face but also the resilience required to navigate such challenging career phases.
With Inter now accelerating plans to finalize Rosa's contract, it appears likely he will join the team on loan for the upcoming season. The club is not merely focused on Rosa; they are concurrently engaged in negotiations for midfielder Igor Gomes from Atlético-MG and working to finalize other potential signings to bolster their midfield options.
The signing of Diego Rosa is part of Inter's broader strategy to consolidate their squad under Machado's guidance for the 2025 season. Club officials are hoping this newest recruit will add the creativity and tenacity needed to make their midfield more dynamic. Fans are excited about the possibilities Rosa might bring to the pitch, especially considering his previous accolades and the newly ignited sense of purpose he seems to be carrying with him.
Diego Rosa's return to Brazilian football could signal not just the end of one chapter but the exciting possibility of beginning another—as he aims to make his mark where he originally made his name, and encapsulating the hope and ambition prevalent among players transitioning between leagues.