Carlos Cuesta Returns to Galatasaray Following Vasco da Gama’s Decision
Carlos Cuesta is heading back to Galatasaray after Brazilian club Vasco da Gama decided against purchasing the Colombian central defender, sozcu.com.tr reported. The 27-year-old defender joined Vasco da Gama on loan in September 2025, but his time in Brazil is ending prematurely due to a hip injury that has sidelined him for matches.
Contract Details and Financial Terms
Cuesta’s loan agreement with Vasco da Gama expires at the end of December. The contract contains a 5 million 750 thousand Euro purchase option, which the Brazilian side has chosen not to exercise, according to Cumhuriyet. With the loan spell concluding and the option left untouched, the player will return to Istanbul in January with 1.5 years remaining on his contract with Galatasaray.
Injury Update and Club Communications
Vasco da Gama issued an official statement regarding the defender’s absence, confirming that he cannot play due to pain in his hip. The club also noted that they remain in active communication with Galatasaray regarding the player’s status. Yeni Şafak reported that journalist Ali Naci Küçük confirmed the injury has effectively ended Cuesta’s season in Brazil.
🚨 Vasco da Gama have confirmed they are in talks with Galatasaray over the future of Carlos Cuesta.The Colombian defender is on loan until the end of the year, but Vasco are not expected to activate his €5.75m purchase option amid ongoing concerns over his hip injury. pic.twitter.com/gAQunofLv8
Limited Appearances in Istanbul and Brazil
During his stint with Vasco da Gama, Cuesta made 48 total appearances in official matches, contributing three goals and three assists, as detailed by Yeni Şafak. Prior to his departure for Brazil in September 2025, the center-back made just nine appearances for Galatasaray following his arrival in February 2025. His initial performances with the Turkish club drew heavy criticism from supporters.