Brazilian Prodigy Joins Shakhtar as Club Brings Back Karavaev

Shakhtar Donetsk's Latest Squad Moves

According to Главком: Shakhtar Donetsk has confirmed two major roster changes: Brazilian Flamengo winger Ryan Roberto is set to join the club, while Oleksandr Karavaev returns from Kyiv's Dynamo. Both deals highlight the team's strategic approach to strengthening its lineup.

Transfer Breakdown

An agreement has been reached for 18-year-old Ryan Roberto, with the transfer fee estimated at €9 million. Flamengo will retain 10% of any future resale fee. Roberto has made only 2 senior appearances for Flamengo, but for the U-20 squad he played 16 matches, scoring 6 goals and providing 1 assist.

As for Oleksandr Karavaev, he returns to Shakhtar after seven seasons with Dynamo. Notably, Karavaev came through Shakhtar's youth academy. During the second half of the 2025/26 season, he remained an unused substitute seven times for Dynamo.

“When I played in Shakhtar's academy and graduated, I already had thoughts that there was a chance to break through and play for the first team – I went to training camps, but never made an official appearance. Over time, those thoughts faded. But for me, this is a sign: when a club that is the national champion makes you an offer to strengthen their squad, I believe that reflects strong effort and that it is all being noticed.”

Oleksandr Karavaev

In summary, the arrival of Ryan Roberto and the return of Oleksandr Karavaev to Shakhtar demonstrate the club's active blend of young talents and experienced players within the squad.

These transfers could prove crucial for the team's development: young prospect Ryan Roberto has significant growth potential at Shakhtar, while Karavaev's experience can bring stability to the flanks. With constant competition in Ukrainian football, such strategic moves may help the club stay at the top and improve its chances in European tournaments.

As Shakhtar Donetsk looks to strengthen its squad with the addition of young talents and experienced players, the recent playoff loss for the Ukrainian national team against Sweden highlights the challenges faced by football in the country. For more insights on how this defeat impacts Ukraine's football landscape, check out our coverage on the recent playoff outcome.