Former Scout Coordinator Raphael Rezende Could Return to Botafogo, Says Ex-Dirigent
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Raphael Rezende, former scout coordinator for Botafogo, may return to the club, according to a statement from a former executive, as reported by FogãoNET. The potential move comes amid ongoing personnel discussions at the Brazilian football club, though no official confirmation has been issued.
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Rezende’s Possible Return to Botafogo
FogãoNET cited an unidentified former Botafogo executive as stating that Rezende’s return is under consideration. The club has not publicly addressed the claim, leaving the details of the proposed role and timeline unverified. Rezende previously served as scout coordinator for Botafogo, a position he held before leaving the organization in 2022. His work focused on identifying talent for the club’s youth academy and first team, according to archived club reports.
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The potential reappointment of Rezende aligns with Botafogo’s recent efforts to strengthen its scouting and recruitment strategies. The club, which finished 12th in the 2025 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, has been evaluating its technical staff to improve performance in the upcoming season. Carlos Augusto Montenegro, a former Botafogo director, confirmed the report to FogãoNET, stating, “There are discussions about bringing in experienced figures to revitalize our scouting network.” Montenegro, who stepped down from his role in 2023, did not specify whether Rezende’s return would involve an official appointment or a temporary advisory capacity.
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Rezende’s Background and Previous Role
Rezende’s career in football scouting began in the early 2010s, with stints at several Brazilian clubs before joining Botafogo in 2018. During his tenure, he was credited with identifying prospects such as 2023 Copa Libertadores standout Thiago Galvão and 2024 Serie A breakout star João Vitor. His departure in 2022 was attributed to “personal career decisions,” according to a club statement at the time.
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Eduardo Iglesias, a former Botafogo technical director, declined to comment on the report but noted in a separate interview that “scouting is a critical component of long-term success. Rezende’s experience could be valuable if the club chooses to rebuild its infrastructure.” Iglesias, who left Botafogo in 2021, has since worked with other Brazilian clubs, including Atlético Mineiro.
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Context of Botafogo’s Organizational Changes
Botafogo’s potential interest in Rezende follows a period of instability in its scouting department. The club’s last official scout coordinator, Anderson Silva, resigned in early 2026 amid internal disputes, according to a report by ESPN Brasil. Since then, the club has relied on temporary staff and external consultants to manage recruitment.
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The reported move also coincides with Botafogo’s preparations for the 2026 Copa Libertadores, where the team aims to advance beyond the group stage for the first time since 2019. A club spokesperson stated, “We are continuously reviewing our structures to ensure competitiveness at all levels. Any decisions regarding personnel will be announced formally.”
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Speculation and Unverified Details
While the report highlights Rezende’s possible return, no concrete details about his role, contract terms, or timeline have been confirmed. Brazilian football analyst Thiago Lima, writing for Rádio Globo, noted that “reinstating a former staff member is a common strategy, but it depends on the club’s long-term plans. Rezende’s expertise could help Botafogo bridge gaps in its scouting network.”
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The potential development has sparked mixed reactions among fans. On social media, some users expressed support, with one tweet reading, “Rezende knows the club’s culture—his return could bring stability.” Others questioned the timing, citing concerns about the club’s financial health and recent managerial changes.
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What Comes Next for Botafogo?
Botafogo’s board is expected to finalize its 2026 staffing decisions by mid-July, according to a league calendar. The club’s next public meeting, scheduled for July 15, will include updates on technical and administrative appointments. Until then, the report remains speculative, with no official statements from the club or Rezende himself.
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For now, the focus remains on Botafogo’s ongoing preparations for the 2026 season. The club’s first friendly match is set for July 20 against Cruzeiro, with the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A season commencing in August. Any changes to the scouting department could impact the team’s ability to secure key signings during the transfer window.
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“Scouting is a critical component of long-term success. Rezende’s experience could be valuable if the club chooses to rebuild its infrastructure.”
Source: Eduardo Iglesias, former Botafogo technical director