In Brazil, reports indicate Flamengo’s leadership has decided not to renew the contract of the Chilean star, which runs until December 2023 after an intense phase in Rio de Janeiro. Arturo Vidal finds himself navigating a challenging period in Brazil, with performances on the field not matching the high standards he showed at top clubs around the world. His numbers this season with Flamengo fall short of expectations, across the Carioca Championship, the Copa do Brasil, the Club World Cup, the Copa Libertadores, the Brasileirão, and the Recopa Sudamericana, having started in only about half of the matches. He has sometimes been pressed into action from the bench, a factor that has not escaped the scrutiny of Flamengo supporters who have occasionally voiced their disappointment in his contribution. A notable match against Corinthians saw Vidal entering as a substitute for Erick Pulgar, drawing a mixed reaction at the Maracanã as fans debated the changes and the broader strategic direction for the squad.
Media coverage in Brazil points to a broader reshaping of the Flamengo squad through transfers in the midyear window, aiming to refresh the roster, inject youth, and offer new tactical options to coach Jorge Sampaoli. The discourse suggests that Vidal could be among the players whose wages may be adjusted as part of a wider plan to bring in new faces in positions identified as priorities. The narrative from several outlets is that Vidal, a former Barcelona alumnus and a familiar name to Sampaoli, might not be renewed at Flamengo as the club pursues a balance between maintaining experience and opening space for younger talents and targeted signings.
Flamengo has already announced two new arrivals for the second half of the year, Luis Araújo and Agustín Rossi, with contracts effective from July 1, signaling the club’s intent to modernize the squad ahead of upcoming campaigns.
What could be Vidal’s next destination? In recent days, reports have connected him with Liga MX clubs, including Tigres UANL, which has been mentioned as a potential landing spot given the club’s willingness to negotiate a transfer or wait for a possible free move should the player become available later. Analysts suggest two plausible scenarios for Vidal’s arrival in Monterrey: Flamengo could strike a deal during this transfer window, or Tigres could wait six months and sign him without a transfer fee if the player’s contract with Flamengo expires. The idea of a large wage bill and the possibility of stabilizing payroll numbers is a recurring theme in discussions surrounding his potential move. Central Deportes Flamengo reports that Tigres could be prepared to cover the salary while seeking an early termination agreement at a reduced cost, aligning with the club’s financial planning for future signings.
There is also ongoing speculation about a possible return to a club that nurtured Vidal in his early career. The move to Colo Colo has been floated in various media circles, given Vidal’s history with the Chilean side and his success in domestic competitions. Yet, Vidal himself has stated a strong commitment to improving his performance and pursuing success in the upcoming championships, signaling that a return to Colo Colo is not a current priority. After a recent Copa Libertadores draw against Ñublense, discussions have arisen about his future in Chile, though Flamengo supporters were reminded to focus on the team’s current challenges. A vocal critic among Flamengo fans urged a return to Chile, highlighting the emotional intensity surrounding his tenure in Brazil.
WARM RECEPTION! Flamengo players arrived back in Rio after the draw with Ñublense in the Libertadores, a moment that underscored the ongoing dialogue and anticipation surrounding the squad’s evolution. This event and the social media chatter around it reflect the broader atmosphere as Flamengo navigates the mixed fortunes of continental competition and domestic fixtures.
When does Vidal’s contract expire? The 36-year-old midfielder joined Flamengo in July 2022 on an 18-month deal that runs through December 2023. In that first season, he helped Flamengo win the Copa do Brasil, appearing in several matches with a few starts, and he featured multiple times in the Copa Libertadores, contributing goals in the domestic league as well. His debut came in July 2022 in a league victory, followed by a league win the following month. In that campaign, he logged a solid number of appearances, including many as a starter, and his contributions helped Flamengo secure key domestic success in that period.
What is Vidal valued at? Vidal commands a substantial salary within Flamengo’s roster, placing him among a group of highly paid players in the Brazilian league. Alongside teammates, his remuneration is frequently cited in discussions about the club’s wage structure. Market valuations for Vidal place him among notable Chilean players influenced by his international experience, leadership, and on-field impact. Current assessments place his market value in a competitive range for a player with his résumé and age, reflecting his stature in South American football alongside other prominent names in the region.
Vidal’s numbers with Flamengo in 2023:
In Copa Libertadores:
In the Carioca Championship:
In the Copa do Brasil:
In the Club World Cup:
In Brazilian Série A:
In the Recopa Sudamericana:
Note: The above data is summarized from match reports and statistical compilations reported by Goal and related outlets. Legislative and contractual details are subject to change and should be confirmed with official club disclosures and league records.