Millionaires continue to add players: made official new contract for the BetPlay League

Diego Novoa has signed with Atlético Bucaramanga after leaving Millonarios, marking a new chapter in his career. The 37-year-old goalkeeper, who had been without a team since June following the termination of his contract with Millonarios, will join the eastern Colombian club on a one-year deal. His move comes ahead of the opening match of the Liga BetPlay 2026-II, which will see him face his former team, Millonarios, at the Estadio El Campín on July 25. Novoa's departure from Millonarios was confirmed earlier this year, along with that of fellow goalkeeper Guillermo de Amores. Both players were replaced by Javier Burrai and James Aguirre, who have already prepared to take over the goalkeeping responsibilities for the embajadores. Meanwhile, Novoa is set to travel to Bucaramanga soon to undergo medical tests and finalize his contract with the club. The Bogotá native joins Bucaramanga with the hope of revitalizing his career. After spending more than a decade as a key player for La Equidad, he moved to América de Cali in 2021, where he spent three seasons amid criticism. In 2024, he received a call from Millonarios and joined them despite having to compete for the starting position with Álvaro Montero. Although he began strongly, his performance gradually drew doubts from fans, particularly during the first half of 2026 when he was made captain in the goal. During that time, Novoa faced several challenges, including some notable errors that strained his relationship with supporters. Millonarios decided to end his contract in June, leaving him free to explore other opportunities. Despite his extensive experience in Colombian football, Novoa arrives in Bucaramanga with high expectations to fill the void left by Aldair Quintana, who recently moved to Independiente del Valle and became a fan favorite there. Novoa’s first test will come against Millonarios in the opening match of the Liga BetPlay 2026-II. The game is scheduled for Saturday, July 25, at 6:10 PM local time, with coverage available on Win Sports + nationwide. This encounter will serve as both a challenge and an opportunity for Novoa to prove himself in front of the fans who once questioned his performances. The transition from Millonarios to Bucaramanga represents a significant shift for Novoa. While his previous stints at América de Cali and Millonarios were marked by controversy and mixed results, he now seeks to rebuild his reputation in a new environment. Bucaramanga, known for its passionate fan base and competitive spirit, offers him a chance to make an impact and potentially become a beloved figure similar to Quintana. Novoa’s arrival in Bucaramanga follows a series of developments within the club. The team has already secured replacements for the departed goalkeepers, ensuring continuity in their defensive strategy. With the new season approaching, the focus shifts to how Novoa will adapt to his new role and whether he can deliver consistent performances under pressure. The upcoming match against Millonarios will be a crucial moment for Novoa. It will not only determine his immediate standing in the league but also provide insight into his readiness to embrace the challenges ahead. As he prepares for this pivotal clash, the attention from fans and media alike will be intense, making it a defining moment in his career.