Atlético-MG midfielder Gustavo Scarpa has clarified why he turned down a loan approach from São Paulo roughly a month ago, pointing to his recovery from knee surgery and a firm personal belief in his future at Cidade do Galo. The 32-year-old playmaker, whose contract runs until the end of 2027, addressed the transfer links in an interview with TV Bandeirantes, detailing direct conversations with club figures.
Direct Talks and Recovery Timeline Clash
São Paulo initiated contact about a month ago, seeking to secure the player on a loan deal through the end of the 2026 season complete with a renewal clause. At that time, Scarpa was working through a rehabilitation protocol following an arthroscopy performed in May to remove a bone fragment from his right knee. According to reporting from Placar, he did not return to official Campeonato Brasileiro action until late August against Vitória.
Scarpa explained that São Paulo’s urgent need for an immediate on-field impact conflicted directly with his gradual medical timeline. Atlético-MG vice president Paulo Bracks confirmed the approach originated from the capital club rather than Galo. Scarpa detailed his discussions with São Paulo head coach Dorival Júnior and director Rafinha:
“Paulo Bracks even said it hadn’t come from Galo, but that São Paulo had shown interest. I spoke with Dorival, I spoke with Rafinha, I explained my situation to them, that I was coming back from surgery. São Paulo needed an immediate answer and, for a guy coming back from surgery, you never really know how it’s going to be,” Scarpa told TV Bandeirantes, as noted by Placar.
Setbacks and the Decision to Stay at Atlético-MG
Beyond the initial friction of his recovery timeline, Scarpa faced subsequent medical hurdles within Atlético’s treatment department. He experienced adductor muscle swelling in his right thigh and subsequent discomfort in the back of the same leg, which kept him sidelined for several domestic fixtures.
Despite limited minutes, the midfielder emphasized that his primary motivation for remaining in Minas Gerais was internal conviction. He aims to reclaim a prominent role under the coaching staff, pointing to recent substitute appearances against Cruzeiro and Santos as proof of his ongoing value.
“The main reason really was that I believe in my potential and I believe I can turn things around and win back my place at Galo. Even with limited minutes in these last few matches, I was already able to show a little of my value,” Scarpa stated.
Conclusion of Negotiations
The discussions concluded without animosity between the clubs or the player. Scarpa wrapped up his remarks by affirming his commitment to finishing his contract in Belo Horizonte and proving his worth on the pitch.
“I’m happy to stay at Atlético. I know what I’m capable of, and I know my time wearing Galo’s shirt is not over yet. It was a very respectful and very calm negotiation,” he concluded.
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