Luis Suárez is one of the biggest names in world football and arrived at Grêmio in 2022 with the expectation of being the top scorer of the team and Brazil. The Uruguayan did not disappoint and scored 16 goals in 31 games, being decisive in several matches. However, what was meant to be a perfect marriage between player and club turned into a Mexican soap opera full of twists, controversies and uncertainties.
the beginning of the story
Suárez was hired by Grêmio after a negotiation that involved president-elect Alberto Guerra, who made a millionaire proposal to the player, who was without a club. Grêmio relied on the support of companies to cover the star’s salary, which would be the highest in the squad, around R$ 1.5 million. The contract was for two years, with a termination penalty of 70 million euros (about R$ 370 million).
The Uruguayan arrived at Grêmio with idol status and was received with celebration by the fans. He debuted in the Recopa Gaúcha against São Luiz and soon showed his eye for goal. Suárez quickly adapted to Brazilian football and coach Renato Gaúcho’s style of play. The striker participated in almost 40% of Grêmio’s goals this season, being essential for winning the Campeonato Gaúcho and for the good campaign in the Brasileirão.
the first crisis
However, not everything was rosy in the relationship between Suárez and Grêmio. In June, the player received a tempting proposal from Inter Miami, the MLS club that belongs to former player David Beckham. The American team offered an astronomical salary to the Uruguayan, who was swayed by the possibility of playing in the United States.
Grêmio, in turn, did not want to lose its main player and made a counter-proposal to try to keep him. The club offered a pay raise. Suárez, however, declined the offer and made it clear that he wanted to leave.
The situation generated discomfort between the player and the board of Grêmio, who felt disrespected by the athlete. President Alberto Guerra stated that he would only release Suárez if Inter Miami paid the termination fine in full. The American club, however, was not willing to disburse so much money and tried to negotiate a lower amount.
the second crisis
Meanwhile, Suárez began to suffer pressure from the Grêmio fans, who did not accept his departure. The player and his family began to receive threats on social networks from some fans with offensive phrases.
Suárez was shaken by the hostile demonstrations and asked Grêmio not to be involved in the games until his situation was resolved. Coach Renato Gaúcho accepted the player’s request and removed him from the squad. The coach said at a press conference that he regretted the situation and that he expected a quick decision.
Suarez’s manager, Alejandro Balbi, tapped his chest and said he was not afraid of threats from fans. He stated that the player had the right to choose his destiny and that he would not be intimidated by the pressures. He also criticized Grêmio’s attitude, which, according to him, was making it difficult for the athlete to leave.
Luis Suárez is one of the biggest names in world football and arrived at Grêmio in 2022 with the expectation of being the top scorer of the team and Brazil. The Uruguayan did not disappoint and scored 16 goals in 31 games, being decisive in several matches. However, what was meant to be a perfect marriage between player and club turned into a Mexican soap opera full of twists, controversies and uncertainties.
the beginning of the story
Suárez was hired by Grêmio after a negotiation that involved president-elect Alberto Guerra, who made a millionaire proposal to the player, who was without a club. Grêmio relied on the support of companies to cover the star’s salary, which would be the highest in the squad, around R$ 1.5 million. The contract was for two years, with a termination penalty of 70 million euros (about R$ 370 million).
The Uruguayan arrived at Grêmio with idol status and was received with celebration by the fans. He debuted in the Recopa Gaúcha against São Luiz and soon showed his eye for goal. Suárez quickly adapted to Brazilian football and coach Renato Gaúcho’s style of play. The striker participated in almost 40% of Grêmio’s goals this season, being essential for winning the Campeonato Gaúcho and for the good campaign in the Brasileirão.
the first crisis
However, not everything was rosy in the relationship between Suárez and Grêmio. In June, the player received a tempting proposal from Inter Miami, the MLS club that belongs to former player David Beckham. The American team offered an astronomical salary to the Uruguayan, who was swayed by the possibility of playing in the United States.
Grêmio, in turn, did not want to lose its main player and made a counter-proposal to try to keep him. The club offered a pay raise. Suárez, however, declined the offer and made it clear that he wanted to leave.
The situation generated discomfort between the player and the board of Grêmio, who felt disrespected by the athlete. President Alberto Guerra stated that he would only release Suárez if Inter Miami paid the termination fine in full. The American club, however, was not willing to disburse so much money and tried to negotiate a lower amount.
the second crisis
Meanwhile, Suárez began to suffer pressure from the Grêmio fans, who did not accept his departure. The player and his family began to receive threats on social networks from some fans with offensive phrases.
Suárez was shaken by the hostile demonstrations and asked Grêmio not to be involved in the games until his situation was resolved. Coach Renato Gaúcho accepted the player’s request and removed him from the squad. The coach said at a press conference that he regretted the situation and that he expected a quick decision.
Suarez’s manager, Alejandro Balbi, tapped his chest and said he was not afraid of threats from fans. He stated that the player had the right to choose his destiny and that he would not be intimidated by the pressures. He also criticized Grêmio’s attitude, which, according to him, was making it difficult for the athlete to leave.
