Former Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto has explained to Globo Esporte about his decision to return to Brazil with Botafogo, ending a 15-year career in Europe.
The 36-year-old, presented in Rio this week, admitted the timing of the move was driven by both professional and family reasons. He signed on a free transfer, taking the No. 22 shirt, and described the switch as “the ideal moment” to reconnect with Brazilian football after spells in Italy, Spain, and England.
Neto, who wore the armband at Bournemouth and even had a short loan at Arsenal, leaves behind a Premier League chapter where he helped stabilise the Cherries in top-flight football. Now, he says, his priority is family — and a final challenge in South America.
Neto: “I Thought It Was Time”
“A few months ago, I came here on holiday and felt something. I thought it was time. The Botafogo opportunity arrived just as these thoughts began to line up.” — Neto, via Globo Esporte
The veteran keeper stressed that while he always denied wanting to return home during his prime years in Europe, the combination of career timing and family convinced him otherwise.
Family at the Heart of the Decision
Neto revealed that giving his children — born in Spain — the chance to experience life in Brazil was a decisive factor.
“They are Brazilian, of course, but they never lived here. Breathing this, living this experience, it’s unique. If it wasn’t now, they might never have it.” — Neto
Adjusting to Botafogo’s Plans
Initially recruited as John’s replacement, Neto had to adapt quickly when the starter’s move to West Ham collapsed. But he insists competition is nothing new.
“My idea was to come to Brazil to play for Botafogo. In big clubs, competitiveness is natural. If it’s not one, it’s another. You have to show you deserve to play. My whole life has been like this.”
Neto’s Career Journey
| Club | Years | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Fiorentina | 2011–2015 | — |
| Juventus | 2015–2017 | — |
| Valencia | 2017–2019 | — |
| Barcelona | 2019–2022 | — |
| Bournemouth | 2022–2025 | — |
| Arsenal (loan) | 2024 | — |
source: transfermarkt – 6 September 2025
From Serie A to La Liga to the Premier League, Neto has experienced European football at the highest level. Now, the Brazilian international wants to channel that experience into Botafogo’s push for trophies.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
For Bournemouth, losing Neto is a blow in leadership terms — he was more than just a goalkeeper, he was a dressing-room anchor. His departure leaves the Cherries scrambling for stability at the back.
For Botafogo, this is a marquee signing. Neto brings credibility, international experience, and a profile that reinforces their ambition to compete domestically and in South America. His arrival also reflects how Brazilian clubs are increasingly able to attract players back from Europe with competitive offers.
Key Insights
- Neto leaves Bournemouth after 15 years in Europe.
- Joins Botafogo as No. 22, presented in Rio this week.
- Said “I thought it was time” after holiday in Brazil.
- Family reasons decisive — children will now live in Brazil.
- Veteran keeper played for Fiorentina, Juventus, Valencia, Barcelona, Bournemouth, Arsenal.
What’s Next
Neto is expected to compete immediately for the No.1 spot at Botafogo. With John still in the squad after his West Ham move collapsed, the competition for minutes could be fierce.
For Bournemouth, the transition has already been made smoother by the arrival of Đorđe Petrović from Chelsea. The Serbian keeper has been signed as Neto’s direct replacement and is expected to slot straight into Andoni Iraola’s starting XI, giving the Cherries continuity and stability in goal despite losing their captain.
Did Bournemouth make a mistake letting Neto go — or was this the perfect time for a Brazil return?
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