With the end of the Brazilian season, it’s time for João Pedro to say goodbye to Fluminense.
The 18-year-old is now on his way to Watford, who found an agreement for his signing back in December 2018, and will be able to register him in January 2020.
On Monday, João Pedro wrote a post on Instagram and directed it to Fluminense fans.
“It’s time to say goodbye. From the bottom of my heart, I would like to immensely thank Fluminense Football Club for having made me as a man and as a professional athlete.
“It was in this club that I learned values such as discipline, resilience, friendship, companionship. Things that I will take through my life.
“I will never forget everything I have had to overcome since I arrived in Xerem, when I had few opportunities to play because I was still too skinny for my age. As well as that I will never forget the fact that the club believed in me and gave me all the support to reach the pro.
“What an honoor to be able to tell the world all that I am one of #MlksDeXerém! Today I leave the club to start my career in Europe. But the heart will always be tricolor.
“I love you, my tricolor! See you soon and tricolor greetings!”
João Pedro had a fantastic first year for Fluminense, scoring seven goals and showing some huge potential. But due to ups and downs and the club’s poor form, he ended up not keeping a high level at the end of the season, and was even left out of several matches.
Globo Esporte brings a short piece on João Pedro’s message today, and recalls how much Watford have spent on his transfer so far.
They say the Hornets have already paid €2.5m for the move, €2m for his performances at Fluminense and another €1.5m having secured a work permit. Now another €1m could be spent depending on his performances for the Premier League side.
Watford’s potential rescue-act could be on the way.