Do Not Sell My Personal Information
I always come across obscure footballers whose names I’m not always certain they’re real.
Former Arsenal player Pedro Botelho falls into that category – whilst I’m here, any idea how you pronounce his second name? Bot-el-ho? Bo-tell-o? Answers on a postcard please.
Botelho joined from Brazilian side Figueirense in 2007 but that was only because Arsenal missed out on their first-choice South American transfer target Angel di Maria(!)
The Gunners knew they’d have next to no chance in obtaining a work permit for the left-back come midfielder, so Botelho was instantly loaned out to Segunda side Salamanca. However, he wasn’t able to be registered for six months due to FIFA regulations and even when he was eligible, he failed to break into the starting XI.
Botelho remained on loan with Salamanca for a second season and managed to become a key member of the starting XI. However, Botelho arrived with the reputation of a ‘party boy’ and was eventually sent back to Arsenal after missing training sessions to go see Real Madrid play and for smashing up the Vice-President’s car.
Celta Vigo was the next destination for the Arsenal loanee but that stint was cancelled early after Botelho threatened the manager after a difference of opinion regarding a substitution.
Spanish clubs clearly hadn’t learnt there lesson with Botelho and Cartagena took the youngster on loan. At the club was also former Arsenal player Pascal Cygan and Botelho enjoyed some of his best football. However, he rejected the chance to stay with the club and moved on loan to La Liga side Rayo Vallecano.
Yep, you’ve guessed it. In January, the loan deal was cancelled after Pedro was arrested for a hit and run incident whilst under the influence of alcohol.
In the summer of 2012, Arsenal decided Botelho wasn’t worth the wages and controversy and instead of applying for a work permit again, they sold him onto Atletico Paranaense.
Now, at 24, Botelho is still with Atletico Paranaense – his time there has included a loan to Atletico Mineiro.
Moral of the story? Don’t miss out on Angel Di Maria.
