Danilo finally made his debut on Sunday, after moving from Nottingham Forest to Botafogo, coming off the bench in the second half of a 2-0 home defeat to Cruzeiro.
Despite the disappointing result, the player left a positive impression in his first appearance since returning to Brazilian football.
His performance was highlighted by [journalist Renata Mendonça on TV Globo](https://www.tupi.fm/esportes/estreia-de-danilo-pelo-botafogo-e-aprovada-por-comentarista-da-rede-globo/), who praised both his individual display and the potential impact he could have on the team.
_“The most expensive signing in Botafogo’s history had a good debut. Danilo looked sharp. It wasn’t enough for a win, and he did miss a chance to score, but he’s a very promising player. Botafogo had a gap in midfield, and I believe Danilo can fill it. I see a lot of potential,”_ she said.
Danilo entered the match with the team already trailing, but still managed to show energy, composure and good movement in the centre of the pitch. He also found space to create a clear scoring opportunity, adding to the sense that his adaptation may be quicker than expected.
Signed from Nottingham Forest for €22m, Danilo had gone through a customised physical programme before his debut, having not played a competitive match since mid-May.
Still, judging by his sharpness in Brazil, Forest fans may eventually wonder if they gave up on him a little too soon. While he never fully established himself at the City Ground, Danilo now has the platform and the motivation to show why he once commanded such high expectations.