The transfer negotiations for Brazilian midfielder Thiago Mendes have taken center stage as the player seeks to leave Al-Rayyan, the Qatari club, to return to São Paulo FC, where he previously enjoyed success. This saga has been building since Mendes first expressed interest back over the summer, but various obstacles have kept him from officially joining the team he desires to represent once more.
On December 26, 2024, news broke confirming the involvement of Mendes’ agent, Paulo Pitombeira, who was tasked by São Paulo with negotiating the player’s release from Al-Rayyan. São Paulo is reportedly eager to integrate Mendes back to their roster starting January, hoping to secure him for their upcoming season as they aim to bolster their squad after announcing the recent signing of midfielder Oscar.
Mendes has had salary terms agreed upon with São Paulo since August; the groundwork was laid for the transfer before negotiations stalled due to Al-Rayyan's refusal to release him. This led to Pitombeira now stepping back onto the negotiation table, walking the fine line of balancing Mendes' aspirations with the demands of the Qatari club.
During the recent talks, which Pitombeira is conducting directly with officials from Al-Rayyan, another strategy emerged. To entice Al-Rayyan, the agent offered to facilitate the transfer of another Brazilian midfielder, Gregore, who recently shone with Botafogo. This reciprocal arrangement could convince Al-Rayyan to let Mendes go now rather than waiting for его contract to end, which is set for June 2025.
Mendes, now recovering from significant muscle injury suffered back in September, is expected to return to action by February or March. If the negotiations go through successfully, he will have the chance to participate fully during São Paulo's pre-season training.
Since entering negotiations, Mendes has expressed sincere enthusiasm about the possibility of returning to São Paulo, recognizing the coaching capabilities of Luis Zubeldía and the potential for more playing time, especially if other players leave the team. His past tenure at São Paulo has left him closely tied to the club, which boasts rich history and promising aspirations for the future.
The intricacies of this situation highlight how Mendes’ perspective as both a valued player and as someone still recovering from injury plays heavily on this decision. Following earlier missteps and the lack of agreement last summer, fans and stakeholders alike are keeping their fingers crossed for what could be one of the most significant moves of the upcoming transfer window.
Multiple sources report insights from renowned football journalist André Hernan, who noted Mendes’ readiness to work hard for his comeback and continue contributing positively to the team he regards dearly.
Despite previous setbacks, the sentiment remains strong from both every side involved. Mendes is dedicated to reuniting with the club he once served loyally and São Paulo is equally resolute to make this acquisition work under current challenging conditions.
This back-and-forth has become not just about Mendes, but also how forward-thinking football management can use strategic negotiations to fill needs within their rosters. The relationship between Mendes, Pitombeira, and the two clubs paints a complex picture filled with anticipation for supporters across platforms.
Looking forward to January, the resolution may soon present itself, with Mendes ready to leap back onto the field donned in the familiar São Paulo colors, fulfilling both his professional dreams and the aspirations of loyal fans awaiting his return.
