Emerson Royal Set to Join Flamengo After AC Milan Exit

Brazilian right-back Emerson Royal has agreed to join Flamengo. The Rio de Janeiro club is now working to make the deal with AC Milan official. Talks are moving quickly.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Emerson Royal was close to joining Besiktas on loan from AC Milan. But Flamengo made a last-minute offer that changed his plans. Milan had a paid loan deal with Besiktas but switched to Flamengo after Emerson chose to go there. Reports say Flamengo’s offer fits Milan’s plan to send Emerson on loan with an option to buy later. Emerson moves after just one year in Italy, where he played 26 games for AC Milan, following his move from Tottenham Hotspur last summer for an initial €15 million plus bonuses.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS

Flamengo wants to improve their defense as they aim to stay strong in the Brasileirão. In the 2025 league season, Flamengo is one of the title contenders, just three points behind leaders Palmeiras. Flamengo looks for experienced and quality players to keep pushing, and Emerson Royal’s return fits well. Emerson himself wants a chance to rejoin the Brazilian national team. This highlights the need for regular playing time and good performances at the club level.

LOOKING AHEAD: NEXT FIXTURES AND EXPECTATIONS

With Emerson Royal joining, Flamengo’s team gets a boost before their next league game against Atlético Mineiro. Flamengo is currently in second place in the standings, just ahead of Botafogo, and four points clear of fourth-place Grêmio. Their next opponent, Atlético Mineiro, is in sixth place, also hoping to earn points for a top-four finish. Emerson is expected to join and start playing quickly, as Flamengo has a busy schedule and a close title race. Meanwhile, Milan will look for other options at right-back as they get ready to play Cremonese in the Serie A opener, after finishing eighth last season.