Botafogo signs Joaquín Correa ahead of Club World Cup

Botafogo confirmed on Tuesday the signing of Joaquín Correa from Inter Milan, adding experience and international pedigree just days before the start of the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. The 30-year-old forward agreed to a contract through the end of 2027 and will immediately join his new teammates, as the Brazilian giants prepare to take on Seattle Sounders, Paris Saint-Germain and Atlético Madrid in a challenging group stage.

Correa, who began his career at Estudiantes in Argentina, spent nearly a decade in Europe with spells at Sampdoria, Sevilla, Lazio, Marseille and Inter. This past season, he struggled to secure minutes at Inter due to recurring injuries and strong competition from Lautaro Martínez, Marcus Thuram and Mehdi Taremi. He made just 7 starts in 22 appearances, scoring 2 goals — including one on the final day of Serie A against Como, which ended a long personal drought.

Internationally, Correa was part of Argentina’s squad that won the 2021 Copa América. He has played 19 times for the Albiceleste, scoring four goals, but missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury.

Botafogo, champions of both the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian league, has had to rebuild after the departure of key players like Thiago Almada. Recent additions include young Argentine talent Álvaro Montoro, Ecuadorian prospect Christian Loor, and seasoned striker Arthur Cabral. With Correa now in the squad, manager Renato Paiva gains a versatile attacker with top-level experience.

The Rio club will make its Club World Cup debut on Sunday against Seattle Sounders, before taking on tournament favorites PSG and Atlético Madrid in what promises to be a thrilling campaign.