Portuguese/Brazilian · Aguas Santas, Brazil · Born 27 August 1977Portuguese-Brazilian attacking midfielder who won the Ballon d'Or in 2004 and claimed Champions League titles with both FC Porto and Barcelona.
Deco won the Champions League with two different clubs, Porto in 2004 and Barcelona in 2006, and was named Ballon d'Or runner-up and UEFA's best midfielder in 2004 after inspiring José Mourinho's Porto to their unlikely European triumph. Born in Brazil, he took Portuguese citizenship to represent his adopted country, earning 75 caps and helping them to fourth place at the 2006 World Cup, and remains regarded as one of the finest creative midfielders of his generation.
Ballon d'Or winner and Champions League victor with Porto and Barcelona
He is one of very few players to win the Champions League with clubs from two different countries.
Did You Know?How They Played
Technical playmaker with exceptional vision, passing range and dribbling ability
Lasting Impact
Creative midfielder who bridged Brazilian flair with European tactical discipline
Career Honours
- Champions League 2x (Porto, Barcelona)
- La Liga 2x
- Primera Liga 2x
- 75 Portugal caps
- Ballon d'Or 2004
- UEFA Best Midfielder 2004
- FIFA World Cup 2006 4th place
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Corinthians | 1997–1999 | — | 27 | #10 |
| FC Porto | 2002–2004 | 75 | 18 | — |
| Barcelona | 2004–2008 | 161 | 20 | — |
| Chelsea | 2008–2010 | 68 | 8 | — |
| Benfica | 1999–2002 | 31 | 4 | — |
| Fluminense | 2010–2013 | 77 | 12 | — |
 Portugal | — | 75 | 5 | — |
Portuguese/Brazilian Athletes