Gatito Fernández returns to Botafogo for first visit since 2024

Former Botafogo goalkeeper Gatito Fernández has returned to Rio de Janeiro for the first time since leaving the club following the 2024 season. Currently playing for Cerro Porteño, the Paraguayan player visited the CT Lonier training center to reunite with former teammates.

Fernández expressed surprise and gratitude regarding the continued affection from Botafogo supporters. He noted that despite his initial belief that fans might have moved on, he was met with significant respect and requests for photos. He mentioned that his visit to Rio was also intended to handle family documentation, noting that his daughter is Brazilian.

As the foreign player with the most appearances in the club's history, Fernández reflected on his time at Botafogo, including his role in the 2017 Copa Libertadores campaign. He also shared that he continues to watch the club's matches with his father as a regular ritual.