Saul Niguez will join Brazilian side Flamengo after a dramatic U-turn on his Trabzonspor move, much to the anger of the Turkish side.
Saul’s Trabzonspor move collapsed last minuteFlamengo offered quick alternativeMidfielder criticised by Turkish clubFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Saul was hours away from completing a move to Turkish side Trabzonspor, even having a medical scheduled. But the former Atletico Madrid midfielder unexpectedly pulled out, citing personal and family issues. Shortly after, Flamengo swooped in, and the Spaniard accepted their offer to reunite with his former team-mates Filipe Luis and Jorginho in Brazil.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
This sudden shift reflects Saul's desire for a fresh chapter and regular playing time after inconsistent loan spells at Chelsea and Sevilla. The move to Brazil marks a bold choice late in his career, with Flamengo providing a platform under the attacking guidance of Filipe Luis to revive his form and legacy outside Europe.
WHAT TRABZONSPOR SAID
Trabzonspor's head coach Fatih Tekke criticised the player, saying: "Let those who don't want Trabzon have their fun. We will find a better one and bring him here. Players negotiate with many places. At last they choose Turkey. Then Istanbul, then Trabzon. While the number is one, it becomes two for us."
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR SAUL?
The 30-year-old will travel to Brazil to complete his medical and sign with Flamengo. The club are hoping his European experience can boost their midfield options as they compete in domestic and continental competitions. For Saul, this could be one of the final chances to reinvent his career outside Spain.