João Marcelo has been loaned by Atlético-MG to Shabab Al Ahli, from the United Arab Emirates, for one year with an option to buy. The forward's staff also had an offer from a Série A club, but the parties involved chose the move to Arabia. Atlético-MG received undisclosed financial compensation for the deal. The decision for the transfer was made after coach Jorge Sampaoli communicated that the attacker, whose contract with Atlético-MG runs until 2029, was not part of his plans for the next season. João Marcelo is expected at his new club in the coming days to undergo medical exams and finalize the agreement.