Premier League
Papu Gómez already has a new team: the Forte Virtus FC of the transfer market in the United Arab Emirates, which signed the Argentine footballer after his departure from Padova. The move marks a new stage for the World Cup champion with Argentina in Qatar 2022, who is looking to regain playing time at the age of 38.
Papu Gómez ends his spell at Padova
Padova confirmed the permanent departure of the forward, who failed to secure a starting role at the beginning of the season. Physical issues prevented his debut in the new campaign, while his playing time during the previous season was limited to 565 minutes, as reported by the Italian press.
Gómez's time at the Italian club was marred by ankle problems and a surgical intervention. Before leaving, the Argentine had been excluded from the club's sporting plans, a situation that facilitated his move to Emirati football.
The deal occurred after reports indicated that the player had agreed to terminate his contract with Padova to negotiate as a free agent. The club's statement confirmed the departure but did not disclose a transfer fee.
🚨[OFFICIAL] Papu Gómez has been announced as a new reinforcement for Forte Virtus, in the second division of the United Arab Emirates. *️⃣The Argentine signed a contract until June 2027. https://t.co/5OX1OndTjN
— César Luis Merlo (@CLMerlo) October 10, 2026
Doping overshadowed Papu Gómez's return to football
The new stage comes after one of the toughest periods in Gómez's career. The Argentine served a two-year doping ban, interrupting his career after stints at Sevilla and Monza.
His comeback to competition was with Padova, where he tried to regain rhythm and consistency in the Italian Serie B. However, physical discomforts limited his playing opportunities, ultimately affecting his future at the team.
Despite these challenges, Gómez aims to extend his professional career. The World Cup title won with Argentina in 2022 remains one of the highlights of his career, which also includes spells at Arsenal de Sarandí, San Lorenzo, Catania, and Atalanta.
Forte Virtus, the Argentine's new destination
Forte Virtus FC plays in the second-tier of Emirati football and is based in Dubai. The club is linked to Maurizio Setti, former owner of Hellas Verona, according to reports about the club.
For Gómez, this change represents his first professional experience in the Middle East after spending a significant part of his career in Argentina and Europe. The financial details of the deal have not been officially disclosed.
Gómez's next challenge will be to regain fitness and earn playing minutes with Forte Virtus. Following a season hindered by injuries at Padova, his involvement in Emirati football will depend on his recovery and ability to compete regularly.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Destino exótico para Papu Gómez
