American businessman John Textor, in an exclusive interview with Globosports, spoke about plans to enter the Brazilian market, through Botafogo, after proposing to buy 90% SAF (Sociedade Anónima do Futebol) from Alvinegros, and took up the subject of Benfica.
“I wouldn’t say it was my first choice in Brazil. I thought no one could buy a big club like Botafogo. I was looking for first division clubs with a few supporters, because I wanted to go in and change the whole business organization, the history of bad practices, and marketing more Efficiency, building new revenue streams. When they told me about Botafogo, I said: ‘No, it’s like buying Newcastle or Manchester United, nobody buys Botafogo.’ But we did. He stressed that the owner is the one who takes care of the club.
In response to a question about direct goals, Textor answered clearly: “Brazilian clubs do not invest enough in them Scouts. We need to bring in money and people to improve Scouts on the basis of data.
Benfica was mentioned when Textor was asked about the suitability of Botafogo to the global football action plan.
“You know the other clubs I’m interested in, they are all top-tier. I hope Botafogo works in partnership with other clubs on the same shelf, like Benfica. This has never happened before. I’m not talking about satellite clubs. When I talk about cooperation, it means More opportunities Use this global identity to identify and attract talent For example, in the past few weeks I spoke with the Crystal Palace manager several times: What do you think about this or that player? Too young? Too old? Need more viewing? This Great opportunity for Botafogo.The American businessman answered, In this equation, we have to give and take in equal proportions.
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