Palmeiras Bolsters Squad with Major Signings, Eyes Club World Cup

The 2025 season has been transformative for Palmeiras, marked by a series of high-profile signings that reaffirm the club’s ambition. Under the leadership of Leila Pereira, the Verdão has invested approximately $77 million in the first few months of the year, strengthening the squad with top-tier talent to compete at the highest level both domestically and internationally.

The arrival of these reinforcements has added depth and quality to the team, raising expectations among Palmeiras supporters and analysts in Brazil. With a refreshed squad and an ambitious owner, the team looks to make a significant impact this season, driven by a clear commitment to return to its title winning form of recent past.

Key Signings for Palmeiras in 2025

Vitor Roque – Forward

The most expensive signing in Palmeiras’ history, Vitor Roque was acquired from Barcelona for €25.5 million ($27.51 million). A dynamic attacker known for his speed, dribbling ability, and goal-scoring instincts, he is regarded as one of Brazil’s brightest young talents. His versatility allows him to play both as a central striker and a wide forward, making him a crucial asset for Palmeiras.

Paulinho – Forward

Signed from Atlético-MG for €18 million ($19.42 million), Paulinho is a highly skilled player in one-on-one situations and possesses a keen eye for goal. His attacking prowess makes him a key figure for Palmeiras in both the Brazilian league and international competitions.

Facundo Torres – Attacking Midfielder

The Uruguayan playmaker was signed from Orlando City in MLS for $12 million. Agile and technically gifted, Facundo Torres excels in breaking down defenses and creating goal-scoring opportunities. His ability to cut inside and finish makes him a significant threat in the final third. A rising star for both club and country, he adds versatility to Abel Ferreira’s tactical setup.

Emiliano Martínez – Midfielder

A strong addition to the midfield, Martínez was brought in from Midtjylland (Denmark) for $7.5 million. His precise passing, vision, and tactical awareness allow him to dictate play and contribute both offensively and defensively. His ability to operate as a deep-lying playmaker or in a more advanced role strengthens Palmeiras’ midfield options.

Micael – Defender

Acquired from Houston Dynamo for $6 million, Micael is expected to bolster Palmeiras’ backline. His physical presence and defensive awareness make him a key asset in the club’s efforts to solidify its defense.

Bruno Fuchs – Defender

Joining on loan from Atlético-MG in exchange for Caio Paulista, Fuchs adds further depth to Palmeiras’ defensive unit, bringing experience and composure to the backline.

Lucas Evangelista – Midfielder

The latest addition to the squad, Lucas Evangelista, was signed from Red Bull Bragantino for €4 million ($4.31 million). His versatility in midfield will provide Palmeiras with valuable tactical flexibility throughout the season.

Palmeiras Sets Sights on FIFA Club World Cup

Palmeiras has laid out an ambitious roadmap for 2025, driven by the urgency to claim major titles after a trophyless 2024 season. Coach Abel Ferreira’s seat has heated up, while his demands for top-quality reinforcements have been met. Now the club is gearing up for one of its biggest challenges: the FIFA Club World Cup.

The Verdão has been drawn into Group A, alongside Al Ahly (Egypt), Inter Miami (USA), and FC Porto (Portugal). The group stage will take place in iconic venues, including MetLife Stadium in New York and Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

With so many new faces, the Club seems to have assembled a reinforced squad blending experience and youthful energy, and determined to progress to the knockout stages and compete for the new Club World Cup title. For a team who's taunted by its adversaries for not having a World Cup (under older, less official formats), what better opportunity to attain International redemption that with wins against 3 winnable group opponents to lead the team into the knock-out rounds?

All eyes are now on Palmeiras as they embark on a season filled with high expectations, starting with a quarterfinals game against rivals São Paulo FC in the state championships, with the ultimate goal of showing well in the domestic competitions and proving it can compete in the World stage.