OFFICIEEL Cercle Brugge: Warleson’s free move to Botafogo ends era

Warleson, the 29‑year‑old Brazilian goalkeeper, leaves Cercle Brugge on a free transfer to join Botafogo on a contract running until December 2029, ending a 6½‑year spell that saw him become a fan favourite and help the Belgian side finish fourth in 2023/24.

Foto: © photonews NIEUW Ontvang meldingen bij belangrijk nieuws! Schrijf je HIER in! Word fan van Cercle Brugge!

Botafogo signed Warleson to add a keeper with European experience and to reunite him with former teammate Vitinho, who also plays for the Rio de Janeiro club.

Cercle Brugge brought Warleson in 2020 on a free deal after he had been without a club, betting on his potential and giving him a second chance in Europe.

De club praised his contributions as he amassed 102 appearances, impressed supporters with reflex saves, and played a key role in the 2023/24 campaign that secured a fourth‑place finish and a place in European competition.

The Braziliaan now returns to Brazilië to begin a new chapter, while his departure marks the end of a period that began when he arrived bij Cercle Brugge.