Wendel exit from Fluminense shows Brazil's economy far from booming

The vulnerable economic situation of Rio's Fluminense likely cost the club the rights to Wendel, an emerging talent from Brazil.

This time last year, Brazilian midfielder Wendel was not even a household name in his own home. The 20-year-old only made his debut for Fluminense of Rio in mid-February. And fewer than 60 games later he is already on his way.

Paris Saint-Germain had been very interested, but questions of Financial Fair Play stalled the deal, and Wendel now flies off to Portugal to join Sporting Lisbon. Fluminense's vastly experienced coach, Abel Braga, lamented the fact.

"We're losing a great player," he said.

Braga...