Gabigol, one of Brazilian football's most recognized talents, has officially joined Cruzeiro as the main reinforcement for the 2025 season. The announcement was made on January 1, 2025, at the very start of the year, as the club confirmed the signing after Gabigol's contract with Flamengo expired at the end of 2024. This move not only sets the stage for Cruzeiro's plans but also positions Gabigol as one of the highest earners in Brazilian football.
With this new contract, Gabigol will earn approximately R$ 3 million per month at Cruzeiro, which includes his salary, bonuses for achieving performance targets, and signing fees. This payment structure places him as the second-highest paid player in the league, behind only Memphis Depay of Corinthians, who receives around R$ 2.9 million monthly. Cruzeiro has made considerable investments to bolster their roster, reflecting their ambition for major successes this coming season.
The transition had been anticipated for months. Despite Flamengo's willingness to extend Gabigol's contract and double his salary, the length of the contract was the sticking point for the player. Flamengo proposed just one additional year, whereas Gabigol was seeking four years. With negotiations stalled and several clubs showing interest, it was Cruzeiro who managed to meet Gabigol's demands, successfully finalizing the transfer after months of speculation.
Gabigol's time at Flamengo was storied; he played six seasons, racking up 308 appearances and scoring 161 goals, positioning him as the sixth leading scorer in the club's history. His tenure included remarkable achievements, such as winning two Copa Libertadores titles, where he made his mark by scoring goals in both finals, as well as two national championships—2019 and 2020. Despite not reaching the same statistical heights over the recent two years, his legacy remains strong at the club.
At Cruzeiro, Gabigol joins alongside several other high-profile signings, indicating the club's strategy to establish itself as a formidable competitor. Other notable additions include Dudu from Palmeiras, Yannick Bolasie from Criciúma, and Christian from Athletico-PR, creating what many are labeling as a superteam for the coming season. With head coach Fernando Diniz at the helm, there are high expectations for success as the new squad gears up to challenge for both domestic and continental titles.
Fans are particularly eager to see how Gabigol fits alongside his new teammates and what kind of impact he will have on Cruzeiro's chances. Diniz's tactical approach, combined with significant firepower from players like Gabigol, will aim to reinstate Cruzeiro's position at the top tier of Brazilian football.
Looking ahead, Cruzeiro is set to start its 2025 campaign with the Campeonato Mineiro on January 19 against Tombense. The club's strategy includes using the upcoming pre-season friendly matches, including games against São Paulo and Atlético-MG, to ease Gabigol back on the field before competitive fixtures commence. Despite the non-official status of these matches, they will undoubtedly serve as perfect opportunities for fans to catch glimpses of their new star.
The anticipation surrounding Gabigol’s debut continues to grow, with expectations set high among fans and pundits alike. His experience, skill set, and scoring capability could provide Cruzeiro not just with tactical advantages, but also with the star power needed to galvanize support and boost morale across the squad. The team plans to showcase their revamped lineup, which they believe will be competitive against Brazil's finest.
Gabigol himself, upon making the announcement via social media, expressed his excitement to start this new chapter with Cruzeiro, reiteration his commitment to help the club achieve significant goals. Reflecting on the changes he is set to embrace, he stated, "I am excited to start this new chapter at Cruzeiro," signalling his readiness to adapt and contribute positively.
With the club already announcing plans for additional signings, the early signs suggest Cruzeiro is serious about making 2025 their year. Not only for the players joining but for the fans eagerly awaiting what promises to be thrilling football action. This transfer marks more than just a signing; it's the start of what could be termed the 'Gabigol Era' at Cruzeiro, with hopes pinned high for upcoming victories and achievements.