Brazilian · Juazeiro, Brazil · Born 6 May 1983Brazilian right-back widely regarded as one of the greatest fullbacks in football history, holding the record for most trophies won by any player (46).
Daniel Alves da Silva was born in Juazeiro, Brazil in 1983. Sevilla developed him into the world's finest right-back during his six-year spell, winning two UEFA Cups. Barcelona paid £35 million for him in 2008. His eight Barcelona seasons produced six La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues alongside Messi, Iniesta and Xavi — the most successful club period in football history. He is recognised by multiple football historians as the most decorated individual in football history with over 40 major club and international trophies. He won the Copa América with Brazil twice. He was consistently voted the best right-back in the world throughout his prime. His combination of attacking dynamism — he functioned as a winger as much as a full-back — with disciplined defending made him the complete modern full-back. He represented Brazil 118 times. He returned to Barcelona in 2021 at age 38 for a final club season. Legal proceedings in Spain relating to a sexual assault allegation in 2023 — for which he was convicted — fundamentally altered his legacy. He served a prison sentence before his conviction was subsequently overturned on procedural grounds.
Most decorated player in football history with 46+ major trophies
How They Played
Attacking full-back known for pace, crossing ability, and tireless running
Lasting Impact
Revolutionized the right-back position with attacking prowess and trophy collection record
Career Honours
- Champions League 3x (2006,2009,2011)
- La Liga 6x
- Copa América 2x
- World Cup finalist (2006)
- 43 career trophies
- Copa América 2019
- Copa América 2007
- UEFA Cup 2006
- UEFA Cup 2007
- Copa del Rey 2009
- Copa del Rey 2012
- Copa del Rey 2015
- Copa del Rey 2016
- Serie A 2018
- Ligue 1 2018
- Ligue 1 2019
| Club | Period | Fee | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bahia | 2001–2003 | — | 25 | 2 |
| Sevilla | 2003–2008 | — | 175 | 11 |
| Barcelona | 2008–2016 | £35m | 247 | 14 |
| Juventus | 2016–2017 | — | 19 | 2 |
| Paris Saint-Germain | 2017–2019 | — | 48 | 2 |
| São Paulo | 2019–2021 | — | 76 | 8 |
| Barcelona | 2021–2022 | £35m | 14 | 1 |
| UNAM | 2022–2023 | — | 13 | 0 |
 Brazil | — | — | 126 | 8 |
Brazilian Athletes