Santa Cruz targets massive debt reduction under new SAF management

Santa Cruz CEO Thairo Arruda has announced a strategic goal to reduce the club's debt from approximately R$350 million to R$33 million over the next three years. This financial recovery plan is a central pillar of the club's new SAF (Sociedade Anônima do Futebol) management model, which aims to prioritize long-term sustainability over immediate spending on player acquisitions to chase short-term results.

As part of this restructuring, the club has reached a verbal agreement with goalkeeper Felipe Alves to pay R$2.5 million in staggered installments. This settlement addresses a significant liability following the player's contract rescission. Additionally, negotiations are ongoing with player Thiago Galhardo to resolve similar outstanding debts. The SAF agreement includes a provision for up to R$1 billion in contributions over 15 years, though actual amounts will depend on management capacity and specific obligations.