Frankfurt say goodbye to a Europa hero | OneFootball

Eintracht Frankfurt have confirmed the departure of defender Tuta after six and a half years with the Bundesliga side, with the Brazilian centre-back transferring to Al Duhail SC in Qatar. The deal will see São Paulo, Tuta’s formative club, receive a solidarity payment under FIFA regulations, according to Arquibancada Tricolor.

Tuta, who moved to Frankfurt in January 2019 following a Copinha title with São Paulo’s youth team, became a mainstay in the German club’s backline. Over his spell at the club, the 24-year-old racked up 187 appearances and scored 10 goals, also featuring as part of the squad that captured the UEFA Europa League title in 2022.

The transfer to Qatar's Al Duhail SC has an estimated value of €15 million, though Frankfurt have not officially disclosed the figures involved. In line with FIFA’s solidarity mechanism, 3% of the transfer fee—amounting to roughly €450,000 or about R$2.8 million—will be allocated to São Paulo, rewarding the club for its role in Tuta’s early football development.

Frankfurt issued a farewell to Tuta, noting his immediate move and acknowledging his contributions since arriving as a young prospect from Brazil. The German side highlighted his growth from a youth player to a trusted figure in their defense across domestic and European competitions.

This transaction reinforces the benefits for Brazilian clubs in developing talent for the European market, especially when subsequent moves are transacted at significant valuations. For São Paulo, the payment arrives as a modest financial boost, in line with similar cases involving alumni who attract interest abroad.

Tuta’s move also marks the end of a notable chapter in Frankfurt’s recent history. After arriving as a relative unknown, he ascended to a regular starting role and helped the team to one of its highest points in recent seasons with their Europa League triumph. Now, he will take on a new challenge in Qatar, joining a league that has become a destination for South American exports seeking both financial and playing opportunities.

Arquibancada Tricolor contributed details regarding São Paulo’s entitlement and the broader significance of the transfer.