Turnaround makes Fabinho prioritize Palmeiras in a possible return to Brazil for 2026 By Janderson Luiz
3 min read
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Midfielder Fabinho, formerly of Liverpool and currently at Al-Ittihad, of Arábia Saudita, is experiencing a significant change in his career plans. Representantes of the 32-year-old approached the board of Palmeiras to discuss a possible transfer in 2026. Essa approach represents a turnaround, as previously the midfielder had not considered returning to Brazilian football.
The Palmeiras is looking for experienced reinforcements for the midfield after a 2025 season marked by runners-up in the Brasileirão and Libertadores. The departure of Aníbal Moreno abroad made room for the first international steering wheel. Fabinho appears as a priority option, especially because it seeks greater visibility to return to Seleção Brasileira under the command of Carlo Ancelotti.
The player’s main motivation involves the proximity of Copa to Mundo in 2026. Atuar to Brasil would facilitate call-ups and greater exposure in high-level competitions.
Current situation at Al-Ittihad
Fabinho maintains a contract with the Saudi club until June 2026. Al-Ittihad has already demonstrated a willingness to facilitate the departure of players with high salaries in similar cases. The midfielder arrived at the Arab team in 2023 for a high fee and has played several matches in recent seasons.
In the current campaign, he has played regularly, contributing with accurate tackles and passes. Apesar of stability in Oriente Médio, the player internally negotiates an early release. Essa negotiation depends on financial adjustments and club approval.
Trajectory of Fabinho
Fabinho started his career at Brasil, with spells at Fluminense’s youth teams. Logo migrated to Europa, playing in Monaco and standing out in Liverpool, where he won important titles such as Premier League and Liga from Campeões. Sua experience includes calls to Seleção Brasileira in previous periods.
At Liverpool, he established himself as a versatile midfielder, capable of also playing in defense. Essa versatility attracts the interest of Palmeiras, who needs options to protect the defense and initiate plays.
- Passage through Monaco: Destaque on Ligue 1.
- Period in Liverpool: Mais of 200 European games and titles.
- Arrival at Al-Ittihad: Transferência millionaire in 2023.
Motivations for returning
The player reconsidered returning to Brasil due to the opportunity to compete for places in Seleção. The Copa of the Mundo of 2026 represents a clear objective, and operating on national soil increases the chances of constant monitoring. Além Furthermore, family aspects influence the decision, with a desire for proximity to the country of origin.
Palmeiras offers a competitive project, with regular participation in Libertadores and Mundial of Clubes. Abel Ferreira values athletes with decision-making experience, and Fabinho fits this profile.
Behind-the-scenes negotiations
The Palmeiras board evaluates salaries and wages to make the operation viable. Conversas involve steering wheel representatives, who prioritize Verdão if release occurs. Outros Brazilian clubs monitor the situation, but Palmeiras appears as the favorite.
The January 2026 window allows for pre-contracts, facilitating moves without immediate transfer costs. The club works discreetly to avoid external interference.
Perspectives in the Palmeiras midfield
The Palmeiras steering wheel sector has options such as Richard Ríos and Emiliano Martínez. The arrival of Fabinho would add running and leadership on the field. Coach Abel Ferreira seeks a balance between youth and experience for future competitions.
- Need for containment: Proteção for defense in decisive games.
- Game vision: Início of offensive transitions.
- Leadership: Experiência in major European clubs.
Palmeiras plans a strong cast for Paulista, Copa of Brasil and Libertadores in 2026. Specific Reforços aim to correct weaknesses identified in the previous season.
Financial challenges
Salaries in Saudi football exceed Brazilian standards, representing the main obstacle. Al-Ittihad receives high amounts, but seeks to balance the payroll. Ajustes in gloves and contract duration can make the agreement viable.
Fabinho demonstrates openness to negotiate conditions suitable for the national market. The priority for the sports project weighs in the balance.
Mutual interest keeps negotiations active, with the possibility of progress in the coming months. Palmeiras monitors alternatives, but keeps Fabinho as the main name for the midfield.
