A familiar, reliable presence in the heart of FC Nantes` midfield is set to depart. Brazilian anchorman Douglas Augusto, often the steady hand in Les Canaris` engine room over the past two seasons, has officially completed a transfer to Russian club FK Krasnodar.
The 28-year-old`s move marks a notable shift for both player and club. At Nantes, Douglas Augusto established himself as arguably the most consistent and dependable performer in a side that has frequently experienced volatility. His work rate, defensive capabilities, and positional discipline provided a crucial shield in front of the defense.
This departure comes as a significant blow to the French club, compounding recent changes in their midfield personnel. It follows the earlier exit of fellow key midfielder Pedro Chirivella, who moved to Panathinaikos. With two vital figures vacating the central roles, Nantes` technical staff face the immediate challenge of restructuring a critical area of the squad ahead of the new season.
The transfer sees Douglas Augusto make the switch to Southern Russia in a deal reportedly valued at €6.5 million. This figure represents a significant return for Nantes, particularly considering the player was under contract at La Beaujoire until 2027. The decision to sell a player with such a lengthy remaining contract underscores either the attractiveness of Krasnodar`s offer or a strategic decision by Nantes regarding the player`s future or squad balance.
During his tenure in France, Douglas Augusto made 57 appearances for Nantes across all competitions. Primarily known for his defensive contributions, he also managed to find the back of the net four times, adding occasional offensive impact to his solid defensive base.
As Douglas Augusto begins a new chapter of his career with FK Krasnodar, Nantes is left to fill the void left by a midfielder who, quietly but effectively, became a linchpin. His consistent performances will be missed, and finding a replacement with similar reliability will be a key task for the club as they navigate the upcoming campaign.
