Fc Porto Best Players of All Time

Andrew Kovacs

FC Porto is one of the most successful and respected football clubs in Portugal. Founded in 1893, they have won a total of 28 league titles, 16 Portuguese Cups and 4 Champions League trophies over their long history. Not only that but FC Porto have also produced some world class players such as Deco, Luis Figo and Radamel Falcao who all went on to become stars for other major European clubs. Away from the pitch FC Porto are renowned for having passionate fans with an indomitable spirit which makes them stand out amongst other teams within Portugals Primeira Liga.

Table of Contents

1. Pepe

Pepe Career

  • 2001–2002: Marítimo B
  • 2002–2004: Marítimo
  • 2004–2007: Porto
  • 2007–2017: Real Madrid
  • 2017–2019: Beşiktaş
  • 2019: Porto
  • 2007: Portugal

Pepe has been a regular member of Porto's starting XI since 2004 and was captain between 2014 and 2016. 

He made his international debut for Portugal in 2006 and played at the 2010 World Cup, Euro 2012, and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Pepe is known for his strong defensive play as well as his accurate long-range shooting from set pieces. In 2017 he won both the Liga title with Porto and the Portuguese Supercup trophy after defeating Benfica on penalties in the final.

On 10 July 2018, Pepe announced that he would be retiring from professional football at age 39 following Porto's Champions League victory over Barcelona. 

After retirement, Pepe will take up a role with the Spanish club Atlético Madrid.[4] Pepe is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays for the Spanish club Real Madrid and the Portugal national team.

Pepe has played for Porto, Atlético Madrid, Barcelona, and Real Madrid in Spain and Beşiktaş in Turkey. 

He won the UEFA European Championship with Portugal in 2016, as well as three La Liga titles (with Barcelona) and two Copa del Reys (with Real Madrid). 

In international football, he has represented his country at Euro 2008, World Cup 2010 and 2014, Confederations Cup 2017 and 2019, as well as the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign which culminated with a third-place finish behind France and Belgium.

2. Otávio

Otávio Career

  • 2006–2010: Santa Cruz
  • 2010–2012: Internacional
  • 2012–2014: Internacional
  • 2014: Porto B
  • 2014: Porto
  • 2015–2016: Vitória Guimarães (loan)
  • 2015: Vitória Guimarães B (loan)
  • 2014–2015: Brazil U20
  • 2021: Portugal
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:00, 28 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23

Otávio is an attacking midfielder who has played for a number of top clubs in his native Brazil, most notably Internacional. Otávio joined Porto in the summer of 2014 and quickly became a key player for the side, scoring 10 goals in 40 appearances during his first season with the club.

Otávio is often used as a winger by Porto manager José Mourinho and is known for his speed and dribbling ability. Otávio was named in Brazil's squad for the 2018 World Cup but did not make an appearance at the tournament due to injury.

In May 2019, it was announced that Otávio had signed a new long-term contract withPorto which will keep him at the club until 2024. Otávio is a very experienced player with over 100 appearances for his club and country.

Otávio has a prolific goal scoring record, having scored more than 60 times in total. Otávio is known for his powerful shots from distance and ability to score important goals in crucial moments of matches. 

Otávio is an excellent passer of the ball, able to create chances for teammates both inside and outside the penalty area. 

In addition to his outstanding skills as a striker, Otávio also possesses great defensive qualities which have helped him play at the top level for many years now.

With experience on both sides of the pitch, it's no wonder that Otávio has been described as one of the best players in Europe currently.

Also Played For: portugal football team, liga portugal

3. Mehdi Taremi

Mehdi Taremi Career

  • 2002–2006: Bargh Bushehr
  • 2006–2010: Iranjavan
  • 2010–2012: Shahin Bushehr
  • 2012–2014: Iranjavan
  • 2014–2018: Persepolis
  • 2018–2019: Al-Gharafa
  • 2019–2020: Rio Ave
  • 2020: Porto
  • 2011–2012: Iran U20
  • 2013: Iran U23
  • 2015: Iran
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 8 January 2023, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 29 November 2022

Mehdi Taremi is a Iranian international striker who currently plays for Portuguese club Porto. He began his career with Bargh Bushehr before moving to Portugal and joining FC Porto in 2009.

Taremi has represented Iran at various youth levels, including the U-17, U-20, and senior national teams. He made his debut for the Iranians in 2011 and has since played a significant role in their midfield rotation.

Taremi scored his first goal for Iran against Syria during the 2019 AFC Asian Cup tournament where he helped Iran reach the semi-finals stage of the competition. In January 2020, it was reported that Manchester City were interested in signing him on loan from Porto.

In May 2020, he signed a new contract with Porto which will keep him at the club until 2024. Mehdi Taremi is an Iranian professional footballer who plays for the Portuguese club Rio Ave.

He has played for Iran at senior level, and was part of their squad that won the 2017 AFC Asian Cup. Mehdi Taremi also represented his country at the international level in 2011, 2013 and 2015. 

In 2016, he joined Persepolis on a permanent deal from Shahin Bushehr following the latter's relegation to Iranjavan First Division League football. 

The midfielder made his Portugal debut in November 2018 against Andorra in a 0-0 draw; he went on to make 30 appearances throughout the season as Persepolis finished as runners-up in Ligue 1 behind Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

Mehdi Taremi has been capped 63 times by Iran and scored 30 goals across all levels of domestic competition."

Also Played For: iran national football team

4. Mateus Uribe

Mateus Uribe Career

  • 2010–2011: Deportivo Español
  • 2012–2016: Envigado
  • 2015–2016: Deportes Tolima (loan)
  • 2016–2017: Atlético Nacional
  • 2017–2019: América
  • 2019: Porto
  • 2017: Colombia

Mateus Uribe is a Colombian midfielder who currently plays for Portuguese side Porto. Mateus Uribe made his senior debut in 2010 with Deportivo Español, and has since played for other clubs including Envigado and Atlético Nacional.

At international level, Mateus Uribe has represented Colombia at youth levels before making his full international debut in 2016. He was part of the squad that won the 2017 Copa America Centenario. 

As of 2018, Mateus Urieve is playing for Portugal at the FIFA World Cup where he has started all three of their games so far Mateus Uribe is a Colombian international footballer who plays for Atlético Nacional and the Colombia national team.

Mateus Uribe began his footballing career in Envigado, before joining Atlético Nacional in 2017. He has since made over 100 appearances for the club and helped them win the Copa América in 2021. 

Outside of football, Mateus Uribe is also a businessman and owns a fashion label called San Pedro Clothing. In September 2018, he was loaned to Deportes Tolima until December 2020. A powerful striker with good technique, Mateus Urieve is considered one of Colombia's most promising young players.

5. Iván Marcano

Iván Marcano Career

  • 1997–2005: Racing Santander
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2005–2007: Racing B: 42: (0)
  • 2007–2009: Racing Santander: 36: (2)
  • 2009–2012: Villarreal: 16: (1)
  • 2010–2011: → Getafe (loan): 29: (1)
  • 2011–2012: → Olympiacos (loan): 28: (4)
  • 2012–2014: Rubin Kazan: 38: (1)
  • 2014: → Olympiacos (loan): 7: (1)
  • 2014–2018: Porto: 104: (11)
  • 2018–2019: Roma: 10: (0)
  • 2019–: Porto: 40: (9)
  • 2021: Porto B: 2: (0)
  • 2009: Spain U21: 1: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 11:51, 9 January 2023 (UTC)

Iván Marcano was born on 23 June 1987 in Santander, Spain. Iván started his career at Racing Santander before moving to Porto in January of 2013. Ivan is a defender and has made over 190 appearances for Porto since joining the club.

In addition to playing football, Iván also possesses an impressive athletic background as he competed in the pole vault event at the 2006 World Championships.

With continued success with Porto, it is likely that Iván will be capped by Spain at some point in his career – if not already.[1] Iván Marcano is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Portuguese club Porto.

Iván Marcano was born on 11 July 1991 in Zaragoza, Aragon, Spain. Iván Marcano started his career at Racing Santander before joining Villarreal in 2009. 

He made 20 appearances and scored one goal during loan spells with Getafe and Olympiacos between 2011 and 2012. In January 2014, he joined Rubin Kazan where he played 38 games and helped the team win the Russian Premier League title in 2016-17 season.

On 31 August 2018, it was announced that Iván Maranco had signed for Roma on a year-long loan deal from Porto.

6. Vítor Baía

Vítor Baía Career

  • : Académico Leça
  • 1983–1988: Porto
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1988–1996: Porto: 246: (0)
  • 1996–1998: Barcelona: 39: (0)
  • 1999–2007: Porto: 160: (0)
  • 2001: Porto B: 2: (0)
  • Total: : 447: (0)
  • 1989–1990: Portugal U21: 8: (0)
  • 1990–2002: Portugal: 80: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals

Vítor Baía is a Portuguese goalkeeper who has played for clubs such as Académico Leça and Atlético Madrid. He was born on 15 October 1969 in Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal.

Baía made his professional debut with Académico Leça in 1990 and went on to play 116 matches for the club over the next six years. In 1995, he transferred to Atlético Madrid where he spent five seasons before retiring at the end of 2001–02 season due to injury.

After retirement from football, Baía worked as a goalkeeping coach with several teams including Sintra FC (2004), Navalcarnero CF (2006) and UD Las Palmas B (2008). 

He made a return to playing football in 2014 when he joined Tondela FCP II on an amateur contract until the end of the 2013–14 LigaPro season which helped him earn promotion back into Segunda División B with Tondela FC after finishing second behind CD Lugo during that campaign.

7. Evanilson

Evanilson Career

  • 2013–2018: Fluminense
  • 2018–2019: Fluminense
  • 2018: Šamorín (loan)
  • 2020: Tombense
  • 2020: Fluminense (loan)
  • 2020: Porto
  • 2021: Porto B
  • 2020: Brazil U23
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 22:43, 21 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 17

Evanilson is a Brazilian forward who currently plays for Portuguese side, Porto. He has previously played for Estação and represented Brazil at youth level.

Evanilson has scored 4 goals in 24 appearances for Porto so far this season. His most recent goal came in the Europa League against Atlético Madrid on 18 November 2017.

Despite being just 23 years old, Evanilson already boasts experience of playing at both club and international levels having made over 100 appearances across all competitions including 34 caps for Brazil to date.

A versatile attacker, Evanilson can play either as a lone striker or off the main front man in an attacking three-man midfield formation; he also possesses good dribbling ability and shooting skills which have seen him score some important goals during his career thus far.

Having joined Porto from Estação in summer 2017, it seems likely that he will stay with the Primera Liga side until the end of the current campaign – providing he maintains his impressive form throughout 2018/19.

8. Ricardo Quaresma

Ricardo Quaresma Career

  • 1991–1993: Domingos Sávio
  • 1994–2000: Sporting CP
  • 2000–2001: Sporting CP B
  • 2001–2003: Sporting CP
  • 2003–2004: Barcelona
  • 2004–2008: Porto
  • 2008–2010: Inter Milan
  • 2009: Chelsea (loan)
  • 2010–2012: Beşiktaş
  • 2013: Al Ahli
  • 2014–2015: Porto
  • 2015–2019: Beşiktaş
  • 2019–2020: Kasımpaşa
  • 2020–2022: Vitória Guimarães
  • 1999: Portugal U15
  • 2000: Portugal U16
  • 2000: Portugal U17
  • 2001–2002: Portugal U19
  • 2002–2006: Portugal U21
  • 2002–2006: Portugal B
  • 2003–2018: Portugal

Ricardo Quaresma is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Chelsea. He began his career at Sporting CP, before moving to Barcelona in 2004 and then Inter Milan in 2008.

After two seasons with Chelsea, he rejoined Porto in January 2013. In November 2014, he was loaned to Fiorentina until the end of the season; however, he returned to Porto at the end of that month due to injury problems.

Having finished his contract with Porto at the end of the 2017–18 season, Quaresma joined Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang on a one-year deal.

On 10 July 2019, it was announced that Quaresma had signed another one-year contract extension with Dalian Yifang.

Ricardo Quaresma has represented Portugal internationally since 2006 and played at UEFA Euro 2012 where they reached the semi finals losing 2-1 against.

Spain after leading 1–0 going into half time thanks to a Cristiano Ronaldo goal but Jordi Alba levelled up for Spain just five minutes from time leaving Portugal hearts broken once again.

At club level Ricardo has won three Liga titles (with Barça 2005/2006 & 2007/2008), two Copa da Libertadores (2007 & 2010) and one Spanish Cup (2009). 

He also helped Lisbon Lions win their first ever European trophy by winning Champions League 2003 while playing for Sporting CP together with former Liverpool FC forward Fernando Torres which made him only player to have won all four major trophies available in Europe: UEFA Champions League, Europa League, Premier League and La Liga.

Also Played For: sporting cp

9. Galeno

Galeno Career

  • 2014–2016: Trindade
  • 2015–2016: Trindade
  • 2016–2017: Grêmio Anápolis
  • 2016–2017: Porto B (loan)
  • 2017–2018: Porto B
  • 2017–2019: Porto
  • 2018: Portimonense (loan)
  • 2018–2019: Rio Ave (loan)
  • 2019–2022: Braga
  • 2022: Porto
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 07:02, 26 November 2022 (UTC)

Galeno is a young Brazilian winger who currently plays for Porto. Galeno started his career with Trindade before joiningPorto in 2016. Galeno has been compared to some of the world's best wingers, including Neymar and Kylian Mbappe.

Galeno scored his first goal for Porto against Braga in February 2017. Galeno has represented Brazil at youth level but hasn't yet made an appearance for the senior team Galeno is a versatile defender who can play in both the back and midfield.

He has played for clubs across Brazil, Portugal, and Spain, including top-flight sides like Porto B and Braga. Galeno was signed by Portuguese side Portimonense on loan in January 2019. Galeno made his debut for Brazilian club Trindade just one month later.

He has represented Brazil at youth international level but is yet to make an appearance for the senior team. 

Galeno joined Spanish side GRÊMIO ANÁPOLIS from Portugese outfit TRINDADE in March 2016, but left after only six months due to injury concerns - he returned to Trindade shortly afterward on a temporary basis until.

December of that year before joining Porto B on loan in January 2017 where he would go onto make 37 appearances during the next two seasons scoring 11 goals whilst plying his trade there also helping them win promotion as champions of their respective division.

In July 2018 it was announced that Galeno had rejoined Portuguese giantsPorto upon signing a three-year contract with them.

10. Stephen Eustáquio

Stephen Eustáquio Career

  • 2005–2010: Nazarenos
  • 2010–2013: União Leiria
  • 2014–2015: Torreense
  • 2013–2014: Nazarenos
  • 2015–2017: Torreense
  • 2017–2018: Leixões
  • 2018–2019: Chaves
  • 2019–2021: Cruz Azul
  • 2020–2021: Paços Ferreira (loan)
  • 2021–2022: Paços Ferreira
  • 2022: Porto (loan)
  • 2022: Porto
  • 2012: Canada U17
  • 2017–2018: Portugal U21
  • 2019: Canada
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 7 January 2023, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 17:57, 27 November 2022 (UTC)

Stephen Eustáquio is a 26-year-old Canadian midfielder who currently plays for Portuguese side Porto. He made his professional debut in 2014 with Torreense, and has since been capped by Canada at youth levels.

In 2017, he joined Porto and helped the club win the Primeira Liga title that season as well as the UEFA Europa League trophy later that year. 

Eustáquio was named to Canada's national team for the first time in March 2018, and appeared in their final two World Cup qualifying matches before being ruled out of Russia due to an injury sustained against Honduras earlier in the campaign.

He represented Canada at both junior international level (under-20s) and senior level (senior nationals), playing 86 total games between them over three years prior to making his full international debut this year aged just 21 years old.

Also Played For: concacaf

11. Deco

Deco Career

  • 1995–1996: Nacional (SP)
  • 1996–1997: Corinthians
  • 1996–1997: Corinthians
  • 1997: CSA
  • 1997–1998: Benfica
  • 1997–1998:  Alverca (loan)
  • 1998–1999: Salgueiros
  • 1999–2004: Porto
  • 2004–2008: Barcelona
  • 2008–2010: Chelsea
  • 2010–2013: Fluminense
  • 2003–2010: Portugal

Deco is a Brazilian midfielder who has spent most of his career playing for Portuguese clubs. Deco started his professional career with Nacional in 1995 and would go on to play for Corinthians, Benfica and Sporting Lisbon before joining Fluminense in 2013.

Deco is known for being able to read the game well and control the midfield while also scoring goals from time-to-time. 

Deco was part of Brazil's 2002 World Cup winning squad and earned 46 caps over a span of 10 years between 1997 and 2007, including appearances at Copa América 2001, 2005 and 2009 as well as the Olympic Games in 2004 and 2008 respectively.

After leaving Fluminense at the end of the 2014 season, Deco joined Qatari club Al Sadd SC but only made one appearance before returning to Brazil later that year where he currently plays for Bahia FC .

Also Played For: brazil barcelona best football players

12. Jorge Costa

Jorge Costa Career

  • 1986–1987: FC Foz
  • 1987–1990: Porto
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1990–2005: Porto: 251: (16)
  • 1990–1991: → Penafiel (loan): 23: (3)
  • 1991–1992: → Marítimo (loan): 31: (1)
  • 2001–2002: → Charlton Athletic (loan): 24: (0)
  • 2005–2006: Standard Liège: 13: (0)
  • Total: : 342: (20)
  • 1991: Portugal U20: 10: (1)
  • 1992–1994: Portugal U21: 22: (2)
  • 1992–2002: Portugal: 50: (2)
  • 2006–2007: Braga (assistant)
  • 2007: Braga
  • 2008–2010: Olhanense
  • 2010: Académica
  • 2011–2012: CFR Cluj
  • 2012–2013: AEL Limassol
  • 2013–2014: Anorthosis
  • 2014: Paços Ferreira
  • 2014–2016: Gabon
  • 2017: Sfaxien
  • 2017: Arouca
  • 2017–2018: Tours
  • 2018–2020: Mumbai City
  • 2020–2021: Gaz Metan Mediaș
  • 2021: Farense
  • 2022: Sfaxien
  • 2022–: Académico Viseu

Jorge Costa is a Portuguese centre-back who has played for Porto and Standard Liège. He first came to prominence in 1990 when he helped Porto win the league championship.

After leaving Porto, Costa spent two seasons at Charlton Athletic before signing for Standard Liège in 2006. In his career, Costa has won 20 caps for Portugal and was part of their 2002 World Cup squad but did not feature in any games.

At the age of 36, Jorge Costa announced his retirement from professional football after playing with Standard Liège during the 2010–11 season Jorge Costa is a Portuguese football manager who has had a successful managerial career in his native country.

He began his coaching career with Braga, where he served as an assistant to Luís Castro before joining Olhanense in 2007. 

In 2010, he moved on to Académica, where he spent two years before moving on again and taking charge of CFR Cluj for two seasons. His next stop was Anorthosis, where he remained for three years before departing for Paços Ferreira in 2014.

Jorge returned to manage Gabon in 2017 but left after one season due to club financial difficulties. He then took over at Sfaxien the following year and led them to promotion from the Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 1 league. 

In January 2020 it was announced that Jorge would take charge of Mumbai City FC from India's second division I-League. He will be staying there until 2021 when Gaz Metan Mediaș have been relegated from the Romanian Liga I Championship Division 1 ahead of him taking up their position full time.

13. Rabah Madjer

Rabah Madjer Career

  • 1972–1973: Onalait Hussein Dey
  • 1973–1978: NA Hussein Dey
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1978–1983: NA Hussein Dey: 94: (58)
  • 1983–1985: Racing Paris: 50: (23)
  • 1985: → Tours (loan): 7: (2)
  • 1985–1991: Porto: 108: (50)
  • 1988: → Valencia (loan): 14: (4)
  • 1991–1992: Qatar SC: 9: (6)
  • Total: : 282: (143)
  • 1978–1992: Algeria: 87: (28)
  • 1993–1995: Algeria
  • 1995–1997: Porto (youth)
  • 1997–1998: Al Sadd
  • 1998–1999: Al-Wakrah
  • 1999: Algeria
  • 2001–2002: Algeria
  • 2005–2006: Al-Rayyan
  • 2017–2018: Algeria
  • 2017–2018: Algeria A'

Rabah Madjer is a retired Algerian international footballer who played as a striker. Madjer started his career with NA Hussein Dey, before joining Racing Paris in 1978.

He spent two seasons at the club, scoring 50 goals in 94 appearances. In 1983, he moved to Portugal and helped Porto win the 1985 European Cup Winners' Cup and 1988 Portuguese Liga championship.

He returned to Algeria in 1991 and joined Qatar SC for one season before retiring from professional football later that year. Madjer was selected for the Algeria national team over 100 times and made his debut in 1978 aged just 18 years old; he went on to score 58 goals in 94 caps during his international career.

After retirement from football, Madjer began working as an agent for several prominent players including Zinedine Zidane and Karim Benzema among others; he also runs his own restaurant chain called "Rabah's". Madjer is currently ranked number 97th all-time by La Liga goal scorers with 108 goals scored between 1983–1991 while playing for Porto.

14. Mário Jardel

Mário Jardel Career

  • 1991–1996: Vasco da Gama
  • 1995–1996: Grêmio (loan)
  • 1996–2000: Porto
  • 2000–2001: Galatasaray
  • 2001–2003: Sporting CP
  • 2003–2004: Bolton Wanderers
  • 2004: Ancona (loan)
  • 2004–2005: Newell's Old Boys
  • 2005–2006: Goiás
  • 2006–2007: Beira-Mar
  • 2007: Anorthosis Famagusta
  • 2007–2008: Newcastle Jets
  • 2008: Criciúma
  • 2009: Ferroviário
  • 2009: América (CE)
  • 2010: Flamengo (PI)
  • 2010–2011: Cherno More
  • 2011: Rio Negro
  • 1993: Brazil U20
  • 1996–2001: Brazil

Mário Jardel is a Brazilian striker who played for Vasco da Gama, Porto, Galatasaray and Sporting CP in his native country. He spent two seasons with Bolton Wanderers before moving to Italy to play for Ancona and Goiás.

After returning to Brazil, he joined newly promoted Goiás in 2006. In 2009 he moved back abroad again and signed for Greek club AEK Athens FC after being released by Goiás at the end of the season. 

At international level, Jardel has made 45 appearances for Brazil scoring 16 goals including three during their 2002 World Cup campaign which saw them reach the semi-finals where they lost 2–1 against.

Germany on penalties following a goalless draw after 120 minutes of play Mário Jardel retired from professional football at the end of 2012 having appeared in 401 matches over 14 years playing mainly as a striker but also occasionally occupying other midfield positions.

Also Played For: grêmio foot-ball porto alegrense

15. Fernando Gomes

Fernando Gomes Career

  • 1972–1974: Porto
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1974–1980: Porto: 158: (125)
  • 1980–1982: Sporting Gijón: 27: (12)
  • 1982–1989: Porto: 184: (163)
  • 1989–1991: Sporting CP: 63: (31)
  • Total: : 432: (331)
  • 1975–1988: Portugal: 47: (13)

Fernando Gomes was born in Porto, Portugal on November 22nd 1956. He started his career at Portuguese side Porto, playing there from 1972 to 1974. After leaving Porto, Fernando played for Sporting Lisbon and then Galatasaray before retiring in 1992.

Fernando later returned to coaching with two stints at FC Barcelona (2001-2002) and Valencia CF (2005-2006). 

On November 26th 2022, Fernando passed away aged 66 after a long battle with cancer Fernando Gomes was one of the most successful Portuguese footballers of all time, amassing a total 432 appearances and 331 goals in domestic league play.

Fernando Gomes also represented Portugal at UEFA European Championships on five occasions, winning the 1984 competition with France as his team mates. 

After retiring from playing professionally, Fernando Gomes served as manager of several clubs including Porto and Sporting CP respectively before he was appointed coach of the Portugal national team in 2016.

In March 2017, it was announced that Fernando Gomes had been sacked by Portugal following their poor performance at Euro 2020 qualifying campaign.

16. Wilson Manafá

Wilson Manafá Career

  • 2002–2012: Oliveira Bairro
  • 2012–2013: Sporting CP
  • 2012: Oliveira Bairro
  • 2013–2015: Sporting CP B
  • 2015: Beira-Mar
  • 2015: Anadia
  • 2016: Varzim
  • 2016–2019: Portimonense
  • 2019: Porto
  • 2022: Porto B
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 08:59, 7 November 2022 (UTC)

Wilson Manafá is a Portuguese winger who currently plays for Porto. He started his career at Benfica, before moving to Sporting CP in 2014. In 2017, he moved to Porto and has since made over 100 appearances for the club.

Manafá represented Portugal at youth level and played in their U21 side during the 2016-17 season. He is known as an attacking full-back who can also play on the wing; this makes him a valuable member of any team. 

Wilson Manafá is one of several young players set to feature prominently for Porto next season, with expectations high that they will retain their title as champions of Europe once again Wilson Manafá is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Porto as a right back.

He made his senior debut with Sporting CP in 2012 and has since played for Beira-Mar, Anadia, Varzim, Portimonense and Porto B. In 2020 he signed with Porto ahead of their campaign in the UEFA Champions League. 

Wilson Manafá has been praised for his attacking play from the back and has also been used as an emergency goalkeeper on occasion.
He represented Portugal at Under-21 level before making his full international debut in 2018.

17. Diogo Costa

Diogo Costa Career

  • 2009–2011: CB Póvoa Lanhoso
  • 2011–2019: Porto
  • 2017–2021: Porto B
  • 2019: Porto
  • 2014–2015: Portugal U16
  • 2015–2016: Portugal U17
  • 2015: Portugal U18
  • 2016–2018: Portugal U19
  • 2017–2019: Portugal U20
  • 2018–2021: Portugal U21
  • 2021: Portugal

Diogo Costa is a goalkeeper who currently plays for Portuguese side Porto. Diogo Costa made his senior debut in 2017 and has gone on to play 51 matches for the club since then, without conceding a goal.

Diogo Costa also represented Portugal at youth level, playing 4 matches as part of the U16 team and 14 games with the U17s. 

After impressing during his first season with Porto's reserves, Diogo Costa was called up to the first-team squad in January 2019 and made his debut later that month against Leixões in a 1-1 draw.

Withdrawn from Portugal's international duty after picking up an injury earlier this year, it remains to be seen if he will make any more appearances for his country at senior level moving forward but regardless, he is unquestionably one of Europe’s top young goalkeepers right now.

Also Played For: football manager 2021

18. Teófilo Cubillas

Teófilo Cubillas Career

  • 1966–1972: Alianza Lima
  • 1973: Basel
  • 1974–1977: Porto
  • 1977–1978: Alianza Lima
  • 1979–1983: Fort Lauderdale Strikers
  • 1983: Fort Lauderdale Strikers (indoor)
  • 1984: Alianza Lima
  • 1984–1985: South Florida Sun
  • 1987–1988: Alianza Lima
  • 1988: Fort Lauderdale Strikers
  • 1989: Miami Sharks
  • 1968–1982: Peru
  • 1988: Alianza Lima

Teófilo Cubillas is an attacking midfielder who played for a number of clubs over the course of his career. He started out at Alianza Lima, before moving to Basel in 1973.

Cubillas then spent two years with Porto before joining Fort Lauderdale Strikers in 1977. In 1978 he moved back to Peru and joined Alianza Lima again, where he would stay until 1983.

After leaving Alianza Lima, Cubillas signed for the indoor team Fort Lauderdale Strikers in 1983 and retired from playing six years later aged 43 due to injury. 

Teófilo Cubillas was named Peruvian Player of the Year three times (1974, 1975, 1976) and was part of the Peru squad that finished runner-up at the 1986 World Cup finals despite losing 1–0 against Argentina in the final match Teófilo Cubillas is one of Peru’s most decorated footballers, having won numerous accolades during his illustrious international career.

Teófilo Cubillas began his playing days with local club Alianza Lima before making the switch to Spanish side Atlético Madrid in 1978. 

After a successful stint at Atlético Madrid, Cubillas joined fellow Peruvian outfit Universidad de Chile in 1981 where he would go on to win two Copa América titles and four Chilean Primera División championships. 

In 1988, Cubillas joined Brazilian giants Cruzeiro where he helped the team capture three Campeonato Brasileiro titles and reach the Copa Libertadores final for only the second time in their history.

After leaving Cruzeiro in 1992, Cubilla returned home to play for newly founded club al Lanús before retiring from professional football aged 34 years old following a short spell with Israeli side Hapoel Tel Aviv FC later that year. 

Since retiring from football, Teófilo has worked as both a manager and player/coach within Peruvian clubs including Sporting Cristal (2004-2005) and Unión Huaraz (2006). 

In October 2018 it was announced that Teofilo had been appointed head coach of UDLC Chimbote after spending one season as an assistant coach at La Liga side Rayo Vallecano earlier that year.

Also Played For: peru national football team

19. Zaidu Sanusi

Zaidu Sanusi Career

  • 2013–2016: Jega United
  • 2016–2018: Gil Vicente
  • 2017–2018: Mirandela (loan)
  • 2018–2019: Mirandela
  • 2019–2020: Santa Clara
  • 2020: Porto
  • 2020: Nigeria
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19:27, 1 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 25 March 2022

Zaidu Sanusi is a left-back who currently plays for Porto. He has previously played for both Ajax and Feyenoord, winning the Eredivisie with both clubs.

Zaidu was born in Nigeria but grew up in the Netherlands, where he started playing football at an early age. Despite his young age, Zaidu has already made over 100 appearances for various Dutch clubs, including FC Twente and AZ Alkmaar.

In 2017, Zaidu joined Portuguese side Porto on a five-year deal following a successful trial period with the club. 

At 25 years old, Zaidu is still developing as a player and is looking to continue improving his skills in Portugal ahead of future international tournaments such as the World Cup 2020 qualifiers or Euro 2024 qualifiers.

Zaidu Sanusi started his senior career with Jega United. In 2018, he joined Mirandela on loan and helped them win the Portuguese Primeira Liga. 

He has also played for Santa Clara in Spain and Porto in Portugal, both in the Primeira Liga. Zaidu Sanusi is currently a regular for Nigeria's national team, having made 10 appearances so far.

Also Played For: nigerian soccer

20. Fábio Rafael Rodrigues Cardoso

Career

  • 2003–2006: Águeda
  • 2008–2012: Benfica
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2012–2016: Benfica B: 55: (3)
  • 2015–2016: → Paços Ferreira (loan): 38: (1)
  • 2016–2017: Vitória Setúbal: 23: (0)
  • 2017–2018: Rangers: 12: (0)
  • 2018–2021: Santa Clara: 88: (10)
  • 2021–: Porto: 21: (1)
  • 2009: Portugal U15: 2: (0)
  • 2009–2010: Portugal U16: 9: (0)
  • 2010: Portugal U17: 3: (0)
  • 2011–2012: Portugal U18: 6: (0)
  • 2012–2013: Portugal U19: 7: (0)
  • 2014: Portugal U20: 4: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 12 November 2022

Fábio Cardoso is a Portuguese centre-back who currently plays for Porto. He started his career at Águeda before moving to Benfica in 2008. Cardoso has made over 100 appearances for both clubs, and was part of the Portugal squad that finished runners-up at Euro 2016.

In November 2017, he signed a new contract with Porto which will keep him at the club until 2023. Cardoso is known as an aggressive defender who is capable of starting attacks from the backline himself; this quality has seen him labelled one of Portugal's "most important players".

Fábio Cardoso was born on 19 April 1994 in Águeda, Portugal, and is 1 metre 87 centimetres tall (6 feet 2 inches) Fábio Rafael Rodrigues Cardoso was born on 8th January 1994 in Lisbon, Portugal. 

Fábio is a left-back and has played for Benfica B since 2012. He made his professional debut for them in 2015, before joining Paços Ferreira on loan the following year.

In 2016, he joined Vitória Setúbal and helped them win promotion to the Primeira Liga that season. Fábio rejoined Benfica in 2017 and went on to make 23 appearances during the campaign – helping them retain their title at the end of it all. 

He moved to Rangers in 2018 but only made 12 appearances before moving back to Porto ahead of the 2019–20 season; where he will continue playing until 2021 as part of an ongoing contract extension with Santa Clara FC (his previous club).

Fábio represented Portugal at U15 level, U16 level and U17 level before making his senior international debut aged 19 years old against Slovakia in March 2009; scoring one goal during that game.

21. Toni Martínez

Toni Martínez Career

  • 2012–2013: Real Murcia
  • 2013–2016: Valencia
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2013–2016: Valencia B: 16: (2)
  • 2016–2019: West Ham United: 0: (0)
  • 2017: → Oxford United (loan): 15: (1)
  • 2018: → Valladolid (loan): 10: (1)
  • 2018–2019: → Rayo Majadahonda (loan): 15: (2)
  • 2019: → Lugo (loan): 13: (1)
  • 2019–2020: Famalicão: 33: (10)
  • 2020–: Porto: 49: (12)
  • 2021: Porto B: 1: (1)
  • 2014: Spain U17: 4: (0)
  • 2015: Spain U18: 2: (0)
  • 2016: Spain U19: 2: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23 December 2022, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 1 May 2021

Toni Martínez is a Spanish forward who currently plays for Portuguese side, Porto. Toni Martínez started his career with Real Murcia before moving on to Valencia in 2013.

In the 2015-16 season, Toni made 34 appearances and scored 10 goals for Valencia as they narrowly missed out on qualification for the UEFA Champions League. On 25 January 2017, it was announced that Toni had signed a contract extension with Porto until 2020.

A quick and agile forward, Martínez has been described as an "excellent finisher" and possesses good dribbling skills. He represented Spain at under-17 level before making his full international debut in March 2016 against Andorra.

Toni Martínez is a Spanish professional footballer who plays for Portuguese club Porto. Toni Martínez started his career at Valencia before moving to Premier League side West Ham United in 2016. 

He then spent time on loan at Oxford United and Valladolid before joining Rayo Majadahonda on loan in 2018. In 2019, he joined Lugo on a season-long loan deal, helping the team reach the Copa del Rey final where they lost to Barcelona. 

He has also played for Spain's U19 and U17 teams respectively but has yet to make an appearance for their senior squad.

22. Marko Grujić

Marko Grujić Career

  • 2005–2013: Red Star Belgrade
  • 2013–2016: Red Star Belgrade
  • 2014: Kolubara (loan)
  • 2016–2020: Liverpool
  • 2018: Cardiff City (loan)
  • 2018–2020:Hertha BSC (loan)
  • 2020: Porto
  • 2011–2012: Serbia U16
  • 2012: Serbia U17
  • 2014–2015: Serbia U19
  • 2015: Serbia U20
  • 2015–2017: Serbia U21
  • 2016: Serbia

Grujić started his career with Red Star Belgrade in 2005. He moved to Liverpool in 2016 and made eight appearances for the club before leaving at the end of the season.

Grujić has represented Serbia at various youth levels and was a part of their Under-21 team that won the European Championship in 2017. Porto signed Grujić during the winter transfer window and he is expected to be a key player for them this season.

Marko Grujić is a Serbian footballer who currently plays for Cardiff City in the English Premier League. 

He began his career with Borac Čačak before moving to Hertha BSC in Germany on loan in 2018. After impressing at Hertha, he was signed by Porto following the conclusion of his loan spell.

Marko has represented Serbia at various youth levels and made 19 appearances for them since 2016 including an appearance at the FIFA U-20 World Cup where they reached the final. 

With over 50 senior appearances under his belt, it is no surprise that Marko is one of Europe's most experienced players when it comes to footballing matters.

Also Played For: serbia football team

23. David Carmo

David Carmo Career

  • 2008–2009: Beira-Mar
  • 2009–2011: Casa do Benfica Estarreja
  • 2011–2013: Benfica
  • 2013: Anadia
  • 2014: Beira-Mar
  • 2014–2015: Sanjoanense
  • 2015–2018: Braga
  • 2018–2022: Braga B
  • 2020–2022: Braga
  • 2022: Porto B
  • 2022: Porto
  • 2018: Portugal U19
  • 2018–2019: Portugal U20

David Carmo is a Portuguese central-back who currently plays for Porto. David Carmo made his professional debut with Beira-Mar in 2008, before moving to Benfica the following year.

In 2013, he joined Anadia and then Sanjoanense two years later before finally joining Braga in 2015. David Carmo has represented Portugal at Under-16, U17 and U19 level, as well as appearing at the 2017 Toulon Tournament.

David Carmo is a Portuguese footballer who plays for Braga B as a midfielder. He has represented Portugal at youth levels and was part of the Portugal U19 squad that won the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2018. 

Carmo joined Porto on loan in January 2020, but returned to Braga at the end of the season.

In May 2022 he joinedPorto permanently and made his debut for them later that month in a 1-0 victory over BATE Borisov.. 

David Carmo is considered one of Portugal's most promising young midfielders and could be an important player for Porto over the next few years.

24. Bruno Costa

Bruno Costa Career

  • 2005–2009: Feirense
  • 2009–2016: Porto
  • 2016–2019: Porto B
  • 2018–2020: Porto
  • 2020–2021: Portimonense
  • 2020–2021: Paços Ferreira (loan)
  • 2021: Porto
  • 2012: Portugal U15
  • 2012–2013: Portugal U16
  • 2013: Portugal U17
  • 2016: Portugal U19
  • 2016–2017: Portugal U20
  • 2018: Portugal U21
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14:25, 14 November 2022 (UTC)

Bruno Costa was born on April 19, 1997 in Oliveira de Azeméis, Portugal. He started his youth career with hometown club Feirense before moving to Porto in 2009.

Bruno played as a midfielder for Porto until he moved to Atlético Madrid in 2016 where he currently plays as a right back. 

In 2017-2018 season, Bruno returned toPorto and has been an important part of the team since then Bruno Costa is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a winger for Porto and the Portugal national team.

Bruno Costa began his career at hometown club, Porto, before moving to Paços Ferreira in 2018 on loan. After impressing during his time with Paços Ferreira, he re-joined Porto in 2020 where he has continued to play impressively since then. 

He earned his first international call up in March of 2019 and has made an impact ever since appearing for Portugal at various levels including U21s and the full national side.

With over 100 appearances for both clubs combined, Bruno Costa is one of the most experienced players in Portuguese football today and looks set to continue playing at the highest level for many years to come.

25. Gabriel Veron

Gabriel Veron Career

  • 2015–2017: Santa Cruz de Natal
  • 2017–2019: Palmeiras
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2019–2022: Palmeiras: 49: (8)
  • 2022–: Porto: 9: (0)
  • 2018–2019: Brazil U17: 16: (5)

Gabriel Veron is a Brazilian winger who currently plays for Portuguese side Porto. Gabriel Veron started his career with Santa Cruz de Natal before joining Palmeiras in 2017.

Gabriel Veron made his senior international debut for Brazil in March of 2019, and has since represented them at the Under-20 World Cup and the Toulon Tournament. In total, Gabriel Veron has scored 11 goals in 57 appearances for Palmeiras across all competitions.

As well as representing Brazil at youth level, Gabriel Veron also played for their U21 side during the 2018–19 season. Gabriel Veron compete in Portugal's top flight – La Liga – on loan from Porto. With over 50 caps to his name, it is likely that we will see Gabriel VERON donning the national colours of Brazil once again soon enough.

26. Gonçalo Borges

Career

  • 2010–2015: SL Benfica
  • 2015–2019: FC Porto
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2019–: FC Porto B: 65: (8)
  • 2021–: FC Porto: 8: (0)
  • 2016: Portugal U16: 2: (0)
  • 2018: Portugal U17: 3: (0)
  • 2019: Portugal U18: 4: (0)
  • 2021–: Portugal U21: 2: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 16:07, 24 October 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 01:43, 30 March 2022 (UTC)

Gonçalo Borges is a Portuguese winger who currently plays for FC Porto. He began his career at SL Benfica, before being loaned out to Vitória Guimarães in 2015.

In January of this year, Gonçalo signed with FC Porto permanently and has since made an impact in the Primeira Liga. He has represented Portugal at youth level and was part of their European Championship squad earlier this year.

Gonçalo is known for his speed and flair on the wing, which has seen him score goals both domestically and internationally Gonçalo Borges is a Portuguese footballer who plays as a midfielder for FC Porto. 

He made his professional debut with the club in 2019, and has since gone on to make 65 appearances for them in all competitions.

His international career began in 2016 when he represented Portugal at U16 level, before going onto represent them at U17 and U18 levels the following year. Gonçalo Borges is currently contracted to FC Porto until 2021, after which he will be looking to continue his playing career abroad.

27. André Franco

Career

  • 2006–2017: Sporting CP
  • 2015–2016: → Belenenses (loan)
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2018–2022: Estoril: 61: (13)
  • 2022–: Porto: 4: (1)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 22:39, 7 January 2023 (UTC)

Andre Franco is a Portuguese attacking midfielder who currently plays for Porto. Andre has been variously described as an "attacking midfielder with great technique" and "a creative force on the pitch".

Andre made his senior debut in 2016, and has since gone on to play 38 matches for Porto, scoring six goals. In 2018, André was named Portugal's Young Player of the Year after helping Porto win their fourth consecutive league title.

Andre will be looking to help Portugal qualify for the 2020 European Championships when they take on Croatia in their opening match of Group D this weekend (6 September). Andre Franco is a Portuguese footballer who played for Sporting CP and Belenenses in his youth career.

In 2017, he joined Estoril on loan from Sporting CP and made 13 appearances for the club that season. He was signed by Porto in February 2022 but did not make any appearances for them before being released at the end of the season. 

Franco then rejoined Estoril on a permanent basis ahead of the 2018–19 campaign where he has since made 61 consecutive league appearances (including playoffs).

28. Danny Loader

Career

  • –2012: Wycombe Wanderers
  • 2012–2017: Reading
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2017–2020: Reading: 28: (1)
  • 2020–2022: Porto B: 63: (22)
  • 2021–: Porto: 7: (1)
  • 2015–2016: England U16: 11: (2)
  • 2016–2017: England U17: 14: (6)
  • 2017–2018: England U18: 7: (0)
  • 2018–2019: England U19: 10: (4)
  • 2019: England U20: 9: (1)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 11:32, 20 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 21:53, 20 November 2019 (UTC)

Danny Loader is a young forward who currently plays for Porto. He started his career with Wycombe Wanderers and then Reading before moving to Portugal in 2017.

Danny has been praised for his pace, dribbling ability, and goalscoring potential. He has represented England at youth level but is yet to make an appearance for the senior team.

Danny was born in Reading, England in 2000 and grew up playing football with local clubs before joining Wycombe Wanderers as a youngster in 2012. 

After impressing during trials, he made his debut later that year against Ipswich Town on the opening day of the season and went on to score 12 goals that season including two hat-tricks. In January 2017, Danny signed with Portuguese giants Porto after agreeing on terms following a move worth £5 million.

He made his debut for Porto later that month against Olhanense where he scored within minutes of coming on as a substitute. Danny has since established himself as one of the club's key forwards and has helped them win both domestic titles (2017–18 Primeira Liga).

Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira[8], Copa do Rei[9], UEFA Europa League[10], Spanish La Liga championship (2018–19).

Brazilian Série A title (2019), International Champions Cup 2019, and Intercontinental Cup 2020 thus making him one of only 6 players ever to achieve this feat across all major competitions(Ligue 1 [France]; Serie A; Premier League; Bundesliga; Ligue 2; Copa Libertadores: CONMEBOL).

29. Rodrigo Conceição

Rodrigo Conceição Career

  • 2011–2012: Belenenses
  • 2013: Imortal
  • 2012–2013: Olhanense
  • 2013–2014: Anadia
  • 2014–2015: Boavista
  • 2015–2019: Benfica
  • 2018–2020: Benfica B
  • 2020–2021: Porto B
  • 2021: Porto
  • 2021–2022: Moreirense (loan)
  • 2016: Portugal U16
  • 2016–2017: Portugal U17
  • 2018: Portugal U18
  • 2018–2019: Portugal U19
  • 2019: Portugal U20
  • 2022: Portugal U21
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20 March 2022, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23:07, 13 June 2022 (UTC)

Rodrigo Conceição is a talented winger who has played for several clubs in his young career. He first made an impact at Belenenses, before moving to Portuguese giants Porto in the summer of 2012.

Rodrigo Conceição started out as a right-back but has since become one of the most sought after wingers in Europe, with clubs like Manchester United and Barcelona reportedly interested in signing him up.

Rodrigo Conceição was called up to Portugal's under-21 squad for their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, and he is currently impressing coaches with his performances for club side Porto Rodrigo Conceição is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Benfica.

He has also played for Porto and Moreirense in the Primeira Liga, making over 230 appearances between them. 

Rodrigo Conceição made his debut with Benfica in 2015 and since then he's been an important part of their squad. He was loaned out to Moreirense earlier this season but returned to Benfica afterward without featuring in any games.

Rodrigo Conceição is known for being one of Portugal's most consistent goalkeepers and has been a key member of the national team ever since making his senior debut in 2016. 

The 31-year-old keeper is contracted at Benfica until 2020 and will be looking to help them win more trophies next season.

30. Cláudio Ramos

Career

  • 2002–2005: Paivense
  • 2005–2006: Académico Viseu
  • 2006: Repesenses
  • 2007–2010: Vitória Guimarães
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2010–2012: Vitória Guimarães: 0: (0)
  • 2010–2011: → Amarante (loan): 16: (0)
  • 2011–2012: → Tondela (loan): 7: (0)
  • 2012–2020: Tondela: 239: (0)
  • 2020–: Porto B: 4: (0)
  • 2020–: Porto: 1: (0)
  • 2007: Portugal U16: 1: (0)
  • 2008: Portugal U17: 1: (0)
  • 2008–2009: Portugal U18: 3: (0)
  • 2010: Portugal U20: 2: (0)
  • 2018: Portugal: 1: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14 May 2022

Ramos joined Porto in the summer of 2010 from Vitória Guimarães. He has since made over 100 appearances for the club, and is currently their number-one goalkeeper.

Ramos started his career at Paivense before moving on to Académico Viseu, where he played between 2006 and 2007. In 2007, Ramos went on trial with Portuguese giants FC Porto and signed a three-year contract with them shortly afterward.

Ramos made his debut for FC Porto in a UEFA Champions League match against APOEL Nicosia in September 2009; he kept a clean sheet as they won 2–0. Ramos was an ever-present figure during FC Porto's Primeira Liga title win in 2012–13; recording 13 clean sheets across all competitions as the club clinched their 31st league championship trophy.


Cláudio Pires Morais Ramos (born 16 November 1991) is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as goalkeeper for Spanish side Deportivo La Coruña.

31. Wendell

Wendell Career

  • –2011: Iraty
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2011: Iraty: 11: (0)
  • 2012–2013: Londrina: 40: (3)
  • 2012: → Paraná (loan): 15: (0)
  • 2013–2014: Grêmio: 11: (0)
  • 2014–2021: Bayer Leverkusen: 186: (7)
  • 2021–: Porto: 18: (1)
  • 2014: Brazil U20: 4: (0)
  • 2014–2016: Brazil U23: 8: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 07:02, 26 April 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 30 October 2016

Wendell is a left-back who currently plays for Portuguese giants Porto. He has made over 100 appearances for the club and was part of their title winning squad in 2017/18.

Wendell began his career at Brazilian side Flamengo before moving to Bayer Leverkusen in 2014. After two seasons with Leverkusen, he joined Porto in 2016 and has since helped them win several titles, including the Europa League and Primeira Liga in 2018/19.

Wendell is known as an efficient defender who always puts his team first - even if that means making hard tackles against opposing players. He's also been praised for his versatility, being able to play anywhere on the backline without any problems whatsoever.

Wendell is married with one child and enjoys playing football outside of work - most notably when representing Brazil at youth level.

32. João Pinto

João Pinto Career

  • 1982–1983: Águias da Areosa
  • 1983–1988: Boavista
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1988–1989: Boavista: 17: (4)
  • 1990–1991: Atlético Madrileño: 30: (9)
  • 1991–1992: Boavista: 34: (8)
  • 1992–2000: Benfica: 220: (64)
  • 2000–2004: Sporting CP: 115: (28)
  • 2004–2006: Boavista: 57: (11)
  • 2006–2008: Braga: 33: (3)
  • Total: : 506: (127)
  • 1987–1988: Portugal U16: 15: (5)
  • 1988–1989: Portugal U18: 22: (11)
  • 1989–1991: Portugal U20: 18: (3)
  • 1991–1994: Portugal U21: 16: (5)
  • 1991–2002: Portugal: 81: (23)

João Pinto is a Portuguese footballer who plays as a forward for Sporting CP. He made his professional debut with Boavista in 1988, and went on to play for Atlético Madrid, Benfica, Sporting CP and Porto.

In Portugal he is most famous for his time at Benfica where he won two Primeira Liga titles and the Taça de Portugal. Internationally, Pinto has represented Portugal at Euro 2004 and the 2006 World Cup finals without scoring any goals.

After ending his playing career in 2006 he took up coaching roles with both Boavista (as assistant coach) and Académica Coimbra (assistant manager).

João Manuel Vieira Pinto was born on 19 August 1971 in Porto, Portugal to Manuel José Vieira da Silva Júnior – an accountant – and Luísa Martins dos Santos – a secretary/teacher; both of whose parents hailed from Madeira Island off the north coast of Africa.

His younger brother Rui played football professionally alongside him before also retiring after several years spent as an assistant coach at various clubs.

The family relocated back to Madeira shortly afterward when João was three years old because of difficulties finding work elsewhere due to his father's profession.
Joao’s first love was basketball but this changed once he started kicking a ball around.

33. Ricardo Carvalho

Ricardo Carvalho Career

  • 1989–1995: Amarante
  • 1995–1997: Porto
  • 1997–2004: Porto
  • 1998–1999: Leça (loan)
  • 1999: Porto B
  • 1999–2000: Vitória Setúbal (loan)
  • 2000–2001: Alverca (loan)
  • 2004–2010: Chelsea
  • 2010–2013: Real Madrid
  • 2013–2016: Monaco
  • 2017: Shanghai SIPG
  • 1998–1999: Portugal U21
  • 2003–2016: Portugal
  • 2019–2021: Marseille (assistant)

Ricardo Carvalho is a Portuguese international footballer who plays as a centre back for the Spanish club Real Madrid and the Portugal national team. Ricardo Carvalho started his career at his hometown club Amarante before moving to Porto in 1997.

He won three Primeira Liga titles with Porto, two Taça de Portugal trophies, and one Inter-Cities Fairs Cup during his time there. 

After winning the 2004 Champions League with Porto, he joined Real Madrid where he has since won numerous honors including four La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions Leagues crowns.

In the 2014–15 season, he helped Portugal win their first-ever European Championship medal after playing in all six of their matches en route to the final in France. 

Ricardo Carvalho was named captain of Portugal by new manager Fernando Santos following Euro 2016 qualifying campaigns which saw them top Group A ahead of Hungary and Croatia on goal difference despite not scoring any goals between them.

He announced his retirement from international football on 25 November 2017 following an unsuccessful World Cup qualification campaign for Portugal.

This followed reports that he had been omitted from Vicente del Bosque's squad due to differences over tactical decisions made by Del Bosque during previous matches against Spain.

On 2 July 2018, it was announced that Ricardo would return to Alverca on a one-year contract until 30 June 2019.

Also Played For: chelsea f.c

34. Hulk

Hulk Career

  • 1998–2000: Serrano-PB
  • 2000: Campinense
  • 2001–2002: Vilanovense
  • 2002: São Paulo
  • 2003–2004: Vitória
  • 2004–2006: Vitória
  • 2005: Kawasaki Frontale (loan)
  • 2006–2008: Kawasaki Frontale
  • 2006: Consadole Sapporo (loan)
  • 2007: Tokyo Verdy (loan)
  • 2008: Tokyo Verdy
  • 2008–2012: Porto
  • 2012–2016: Zenit Saint Petersburg
  • 2016–2020: Shanghai SIPG
  • 2021: Atlético Mineiro
  • 2012: Brazil Olympic (O.P.)
  • 2009–2021: Brazil

Hulk is a Brazilian forward who has played for Atlético Mineiro since joining in 2013. He made his debut with the club during the 2013 Copa Libertadores and scored against River Plate in the semi-final.

Hulk helped Atlético to win both of their 2014 Campeonato Brasileiro titles, scoring 19 goals along the way including two in the final against São Paulo which clinched victory on penalties after a 1–1 draw at full time.

In 2015 he signed for Russian side Zenit Saint Petersburg where he won silverware with them, notably contributing 16 goals as they were runners up to Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League Final.

After returning to Brazil following his stint abroad, Hulk rejoined Atlético Mineiro ahead of their 2018 season.[4] He has also represented Brazil at international level, making his senior debut back in 2009 and appearing at three World Cups (2014, 2018 & 2022).

Givanildo Vieira de Sousa was born on 25 July 1986,and is commonly known as "Hulk".[6][7]He began playing football aged six ,joining Serrano-PB before moving onto Campinense later that year.

In 2001 he joined Vitória SC,[10][11];scoring 13 times over two seasons before signing for São Paulo FC,[12]for whom he would score 21 league goals from 2004 until 2006.

It was while at these clubs that Hulk gained first team experience; appearing 45 times across all competitions between 2003 and 2005 whilst representing Brazil youth teams at various tournaments such as U17 South American Championships (2003) and U20 World Cup qualifiers (2004).'

On 26 August 2007 it was announced that Hulk had agreed terms with English Premier League side Manchester United; however, this move fell through due to visa complications.

Returning home once more – this time joining Racing Club de Avellaneda – it wasn’t long until European sides came calling once again: first Spanish outfit Real Madrid CF,[16][17], before finally agreeing on personal terms with Italian Serie A champions Juventus Football Club four days later.

Moving stateside yet again less than twelve months later when reigning Japanese J1 League champions Vissel Kobe Fc., managed by José Mourinho invited him into pre-season training prior to their 2008 campaign;the contract being.

Also Played For: chinese super league

35. João Mário

João Mário Career

  • 2002–2004: Porto
  • 2004–2012: Sporting CP
  • 2011–2016: Sporting CP
  • 2012–2013: Sporting CP B
  • 2014: Vitória Setúbal (loan)
  • 2016–2021: Inter Milan
  • 2018: West Ham United (loan)
  • 2019–2020: Lokomotiv Moscow (loan)
  • 2020–2021: Sporting CP (loan)
  • 2021: Benfica
  • 2007–2008: Portugal U15
  • 2008–2009: Portugal U16
  • 2009–2010: Portugal U17
  • 2010–2011: Portugal U18
  • 2010–2012: Portugal U19
  • 2012–2013: Portugal U20
  • 2013–2015: Portugal U21
  • 2014: Portugal

João Mário was born in 1993 and is a midfielder for Benfica. He made his senior debut with Sporting CP in 2011 and has since played for Vitória Setúbal on loan, as well as Benfica.

João Mário is Portugal's highest-rated player of the 2017–18 season according to La Liga rankings.[4] In September 2018 he signed a new contract extension with Benfica until 2023.

[5] João Mário has been called up to the Portuguese national team several times but has yet to make an appearance at full international level.

João Mário is a Portuguese international footballer who plays for Italian side Inter Milan and Bulgarian club Lokomotiv Moscow. 

João Mário made his professional debut with Porto in 2007, before joining Fiorentina two years later. In 2013, he moved to Italy to join Internazionale, where he won the Serie A title in 2014–15 and 2015–16.

He then joined Premier League side West Ham United on loan in 2018 before signing permanently the following year. 

João Mário has represented Portugal at UEFA European Championships twice (2007 and 2016) as well as at the 2017 Confederations Cup tournament held in Russia; he also played at Euro 2008 and 2012 without qualifying for any major tournaments finals.

As of November 2020, João Mário holds 42 caps for Portugal across all national team levels.
In September 2019, it was announced that Joao Mário would join Portuguese Liga champions Sporting CP on a season-long loan deal.

João Marinho started playing football when young with local amateur teams from his hometown Vila Real de Santo António until 2004 when signed by UD Almeirim’s junior squad aged 15 after impressing scouts during an unofficial match against Sertanense FC reserves.

After progressing through the ranks at UDL Almeirim over three seasons making 104 appearances scoring 33 goals while helping them win 3 league titles & 2 cup competitions.

 including winning both editions of the Portuguese Under 18 championship which qualified him to play alongside future Inter Milan teammates Luka Modric & Ivan Perisic.

On 27th July 2007 after completing a transfer from UD Almeirim FC to Porto FCP €10 million fee [2][3], one day shy of his 17th birthday became youngest player ever sign for Primeira Liga Champions.

The next season saw him make 26 starts including their victorious run into Europe losing only 1 game along way reaching semi final stage which they eventually lost 5-1 on aggregate against Barcelona.

Although injuries limited first-team opportunities under new manager José Mourinho throughout most of 2009/2010 ultimately costing him 14 games towards end Of 2010/2011 campaign being named captain by newly appointed coach Rui Vitória early into 2011/2012 pre-season following departure of Nuno Espírito.

Also Played For: sl benfica, euro u21

36. Héctor Herrera

Héctor Herrera Career

  • 2007–2011: Pachuca
  • 2007–2008: Cuautla (loan)
  • 2011: Tampico Madero (loan)
  • 2011–2013: Pachuca
  • 2013–2014: Porto B
  • 2013–2019: Porto
  • 2019–2022: Atlético Madrid
  • 2022: Houston Dynamo
  • 2012: Mexico U20
  • 2012: Mexico U23
  • 2012: Mexico

Herrera is a Mexican midfielder who currently plays for the Houston Dynamo. Herrera started his career with Pachuca, before playing for Porto B in 2013 and 2014.

Herrera was named Dynamo Player of the Year in 2017 after helping Houston reach the MLS Cup final. Herrera has represented Mexico at various youth levels, including at the U-20 World Cup in 2009 and 2011 and at Euro 2012 where they reached the quarterfinals.

Herrera is known as an attack minded midfielder who can score goals from long range or set up teammates with passes accuracy Héctor Herrera is a midfielder for Spanish club Porto and the Mexican national team. 

He has represented Mexico at both the CONCACAF Gold Cup and Olympic Games, winning silver in the former tournament.

Herrera started his career with Atlético Madrid, before joining Porto in 2013. In 2019 he was named player of the season by the Portuguese newspaper Jornal de Notícias after helping his side to win their fourth consecutive league title. 

Herrera has been linked with a move to English Premier League side Manchester United, but no deal has yet materialized as of late October 2022.

Also Played For: c.f. pachuca, mexico national football team

37. Sérgio Oliveira

Sérgio Oliveira Career

  • 2000–2002: Paços Brandão
  • 2002–2010: Porto
  • 2007–2008: Padroense (loan)
  • 2009–2013: Porto
  • 2010–2011: Beira-Mar (loan)
  • 2011: Mechelen (loan)
  • 2012: Penafiel (loan)
  • 2012–2013: Porto B
  • 2013–2015: Paços Ferreira
  • 2015–2022: Porto
  • 2017: Nantes (loan)
  • 2019: PAOK (loan)
  • 2019: Porto B
  • 2022: Roma (loan)
  • 2022: Galatasaray
  • 2008–2009: Portugal U17
  • 2008–2009: Portugal U18
  • 2009–2010: Portugal U19
  • 2010–2012: Portugal U20
  • 2012–2015: Portugal U21
  • 2016: Portugal Olympic (O.P.)
  • 2018: Portugal

Sérgio Oliveira is a central midfielder who currently plays for Galatasaray. He started his career at Porto, and made 10 appearances for the club in 2009–10 before joining Beira-Mar on loan in 2010.

In 2011 he rejoined Porto and became an important part of their midfield during the following three seasons, making over 100 appearances each time. In July 2017, it was announced that Oliveira had signed with Galatasaray ahead of the 2017–18 season.

He has represented Portugal at under-19 level and played at Euro 2016 without scoring any goals or assists despite appearing in all four group stage matches as Portugal reached the semi-finals where they lost to France 1–0 after extra time.

On 5 January 2019, Oliveira scored his first goal for Galatasaray against Kayserispor, thus becoming only the second player (after Fernando Torres) to score both goals and create a hat-trick in Süper Lig play.

Furthermore, this was also his fourth league goal of the season which secured top spot on Atlético Madrid's Group C table with one game remaining.

The 30-year-old Portuguese international will be playing his last professional match for Galatasaray on 15 May 2019 when they take on Kasımpaşa İstanbul SK at Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul celebrating UEFA Europa League qualificationİ.

Also Played For: super lig

38. Yacine Brahimi

Yacine Brahimi Career

  • 1997–2000: Montreuil
  • 2000–2004: Vincennois
  • 2003–2006: Clairefontaine
  • 2004–2006: Paris Saint-Germain
  • 2006–2007: Rennes
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2006–2013: Rennes: 39: (6)
  • 2009–2010: → Clermont (loan): 32: (8)
  • 2012–2013: → Granada (loan): 27: (0)
  • 2013–2014: Granada: 35: (3)
  • 2014–2019: Porto: 148: (39)
  • 2019–2022: Al-Rayyan: 56: (25)
  • 2022–: Al-Gharafa: 6: (5)
  • 2006: France U16: 7: (2)
  • 2006: France U17: 3: (0)
  • 2007–2008: France U18: 5: (1)
  • 2008–2009: France U19: 11: (7)
  • 2010: France U20: 5: (1)
  • 2010–2012: France U21: 8: (1)
  • 2013–: Algeria: 60: (11)

Brahimi was born in 1990 and started his career at Montreuil. He then played for Vincennois, Clairefontaine, Paris Saint-Germain, Rennes before joining Al-Gharafa in the 2014 season.

Brahimi has scored six goals in 36 appearances for Algeria since making his debut in 2013. The winger is considered one of Algeria's most promising talents and is expected to make an impact on the international stage soon Brahimi is a talented and versatile winger who has represented Algeria at both senior and youth levels.

Brahimi first came to prominence as a teenager, winning the U-17 French Championship with Rennes before starring for France at the U-20 level. 

After impressing in spells on loan with Granada and Porto, Brahimi signed for Al-Rayyan in Qatar this summer. The attacking midfielder will hope to help his new club challenge for honours in Qatar next season.

39. Alex Telles

Alex Telles Career

  • 2007–2011: Juventude
  • 2011–2012: Juventude
  • 2013–2014: Grêmio
  • 2014–2016: Galatasaray
  • 2015–2016: Inter Milan (loan)
  • 2016–2020: Porto
  • 2020–: Manchester United
  • 2022: Sevilla (loan)
  • 2019: Brazil
  • Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:38, 9 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 22:39, 2 December 2022 (UTC)

Alex Telles is a Brazilian left-back who currently plays for Sevilla on loan from Manchester United. Alex Telles made his senior debut with Caxias do Sul in 2012 and has since played for Rio Branco, Nacional, Corinthians and Palmeiras.

Alex Telles joined Manchester United in 2018 and has made eight appearances for the club, including one start in the Europa League final against Ajax. With Sevilla, Alex Telles has won two La Liga titles and a UEFA Cup trophy during his time at the club so far.

Alex Telles was born on 15 December 1992 in Brazil but grew up playing football in Uruguay before joining Manchester United as a youngster in 2013 Alex Telles is a Brazilian international footballer who plays for Manchester United. 

Alex Telles started his career with Atlético Mineiro before moving to Grêmio in 2014.

He was loaned out to Galatasaray the following year and then joined Inter Milan on a permanent basis in 2016. Alex Telles made his debut for Brazil in 2019 and has since played 10 games, scoring one goal. 

Alex Telles will likely leave Manchester United at the end of the 2020/21 season after agreeing to join Sevilla on a loan deal.

Also Played For: sevilla fc

40. Moussa Marega

Moussa Marega Career

  • 2011–2012: Évry
  • 2012–2013: Le Poiré-sur-Vie
  • 2013–2014: Amiens
  • 2014: Espérance de Tunis
  • 2015–2016: Marítimo
  • 2016–2021: Porto
  • 2016–2017: Vitória de Guimarães (loan)
  • 2021: Al Hilal
  • 2015: Mali
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 28 June 2022, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 15 July 2019

Marega is a French striker who has played for Al Hilal in Qatar and Porto in Portugal. Marega joined Portuguese giants Porto from Les Ulis Saint-Germain in the summer of 2018 for a fee reported to be £33 million.

In 222 appearances for Les Ulis Saint-Germain, Marega scored 108 goals, making him one of the leading scorers in Ligue 1 history. 

After joining Porto, Marega made his debut on 24 August 2018 against Braga; he came on as a substitute for Vincent Aboubakar late into the second half and helped seal victory with an 84th minute goal.

At international level, Marega has represented France at under-21 level and was part of their squad that finished runners up at the 2015 European Championship (where he also featured in two group stage matches). 

He made his senior debut on 11 November 2015 against Iceland and went on to make 14 further appearances before being replaced by Olivier Giroud during Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.

On 5 September 2017, after six months out following ankle surgery, Marega opened the scoring with a spectacular overhead kick as Les Ulis Saint Germain defeated Caen 3–1 to win Group H of Ligue 1's Coupe de la Ligue competition; this performance saw him named Player of the Match.

In January 2019 it was announced that despite ongoing negotiations over new terms which would have kept him at Estadio do Dragão until 2024,[3]Marega had decided to leavePortoand join fellow Qatari side Al Hilal effective immediately.

Also Played For: saudi pro league, mali

41. Jesús Manuel Corona

Jesús Manuel Corona Career

  • 2008–2010: Monterrey
  • 2010–2013: Monterrey
  • 2013–2015: Twente
  • 2015–2022: Porto
  • 2022: Sevilla
  • 2011–2013: Mexico U20
  • 2014: Mexico

Jesús Manuel Corona is a Mexican footballer who currently plays for Sevilla. Corona began his career with Monterrey in 2008 and went on to make over 200 appearances for the club, including two seasons in La Liga.

In 2017, he joined Segunda Division side Granada before joining Sevilla in 2018. Corona has represented Mexico at under-17, under-20 and senior level and played at the 2010 FIFA World Cup finals. 

He is known as a winger or right back and is considered one of the most promising young players in Spanish football Jesús Manuel Corona is a Mexican professional footballer who plays for Portuguese club Porto.

He has represented his country at international level, winning the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2015 and the CONCACAF Cup in 2015. 

Corona has appeared in 37 league games for Monterrey since 2010, scoring two goals, before moving to Dutch side Twente in 2013 where he made 46 appearances and scored eleven goals. 

In January 2015, he joined Portuguese champions Porto on a five-year deal; during his spell with them he won both the Primeira Liga and Taça da Liga consecutively as well as being crowned European Champions League winners that season.

On 10 June 2022, Corona announced his retirement from football after playing 192 times for Spanish side Sevilla - making him their all-time leading appearance holder and second top scorer behind Andres Iniesta (259).

Also Played For: spanish fut

42. Fernando Andrade dos Santos

Career

  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2012–2013: São Caetano: 1: (0)
  • 2012: → Vissel Kobe (loan): 4: (0)
  • 2014: Guarani: 12: (2)
  • 2015: Rio Branco-SP: 18: (3)
  • 2015–2016: Oriental: 36: (10)
  • 2016–2017: Penafiel: 37: (8)
  • 2017–2019: Santa Clara: 49: (15)
  • 2019–: Porto: 12: (1)
  • 2019–2020: → Sivasspor (loan): 27: (6)
  • 2020–2021: → Çaykur Rizespor (loan): 29: (2)
  • 2021: → Al-Fayha (loan): 1: (0)
  • *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14 May 2022

Fernando Andrade dos Santos is a Brazilian forward who currently plays for Portuguese side Porto. Fernando started his senior career with Corinthians in 2013, before moving to Palmeiras the following year.

He made a move back to Brazil in 2016, joining Rio Ave on loan from Porto. In 2017 he joined Porto permanently and has since scored 26 goals in all competitions for them, including 11 assists. 

Fernando was part of Brazil's Under-20 team that won the 2014 FIFA World Cup and played at UEFA Euro 2016 where they reached the semi-final stage before losing to Portugal Fernando Andrade dos Santos is a Brazilian midfielder who currently plays for São Caetano.

He has previously played for Guarani and Rio Branco-SP, before moving to Oriental in 2015. In 2017, he joined Santa Clara, where he has since made 49 appearances and scored 15 goals. On loan from Porto in 2019, Fernando Andrade Dos Santos has so far featured for Al-Fayha and Çaykur Rizespor this season.

43. Bruno Alves

Bruno Alves Career

  • 1992–1999: Varzim
  • 1999–2000: Porto
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2000–2005: Porto B: 58: (8)
  • 2002–2010: Porto: 119: (14)
  • 2002–2003: → Farense (loan): 46: (3)
  • 2003–2004: → Vitória Guimarães (loan): 26: (1)
  • 2004–2005: → AEK Athens (loan): 27: (0)
  • 2010–2013: Zenit Saint Petersburg: 71: (1)
  • 2013–2016: Fenerbahçe: 75: (3)
  • 2016–2017: Cagliari: 36: (1)
  • 2017–2018: Rangers: 20: (1)
  • 2018–2021: Parma: 85: (5)
  • 2021: Famalicão: 0: (0)
  • 2021–2022: Apollon Smyrnis: 19: (0)
  • Total: : 582: (37)
  • 2001–2002: Portugal U20: 10: (1)
  • 2002–2004: Portugal U21: 19: (2)
  • 2004: Portugal U23: 3: (0)
  • 2004: Portugal B: 1: (0)
  • 2007–2018: Portugal: 96: (11)

Bruno Alves is a Portuguese centre-back who has played for Porto and AEK Athens in his career thus far. He made his senior debut with Porto in 2000 and went on to play 119 games for the club over the next ten years, making him one of their most important players during that time.

After transferring to AEK Athens midway through the 2010–11 season, he has since helped them win two Greek Cup titles as well as being part of their squad that reached the Champions League semi-finals last year. 

At international level, Bruno Alves has represented Portugal at every level from under-16s up to and including full national team duty, winning 58 caps overall between 2002 and 2018.

In November 2018, it was announced that Bruno Alves had been appointed Sporting Director at AEK Athens.[1] Bruno Alves is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays for Spanish club Valencia and the Portugal national team.

Bruno Alves started his career at Benfica, playing over 150 games for the Lisbon side before moving to Spain in 2013. He has also represented Portugal at the international level, notably captaining the side during their 2018 World Cup campaign which saw them reach the semi-finals. 

In 2017, he won his first major title with Valencia when they won La Liga championship. In 2019 he signed a new contract with Valencia until 2024 which will keep him at the Mestalla until 30 years of age. 

Outside of football, Bruno Alves is an ambassador for several charities including UNICEF and Save The Children UK and participates in events such as Primeira Divisão matches to raise money for charity.

44. Danilo Pereira

Danilo Pereira Career

  • 1999–2005: Arsenal 72
  • 2005–2008: Estoril
  • 2008–2010: Benfica
  • 2010–2013: Parma
  • 2011: Aris (loan)
  • 2012–2013: Roda (loan)
  • 2013–2015: Marítimo
  • 2015–2021: Porto
  • 2020–2021: Paris Saint-Germain (loan)
  • 2021: Paris Saint-Germain
  • 2009: Portugal U18
  • 2009–2010: Portugal U19
  • 2010–2011: Portugal U20
  • 2012: Portugal U21
  • 2015: Portugal

Danilo Pereira is a 31-year old defensive midfielder for Paris Saint-Germain. He started his career at Arsenal, playing for them from 1999 to 2005. After leaving Arsenal, he joined Estoril before moving to Benfica in 2008.

In 2010, he signed with Parma and played there until 2013 when he moved to Aris on loan (where he stayed until 2017). 

Danilo Pereira was born in Guinea-Bissau but has Portuguese citizenship and represents Portugal internationally Danilo Pereira is a versatile midfielder who has played for both club and country.

He made his debut for Portugal in 2009, playing at the age of 18. Danilo went on to represent Portugal at UEFA Euro 2016 where they won the tournament. In 2019 he helped Portugal win the UEFA Nations League title, their first major trophy since 2010. 

Danilo signed for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and is set to continue his international career with them until 2021.

45. Lucho González

Lucho González Career

  • 1995–1998: Huracán
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1998–2002: Huracán: 111: (12)
  • 2002–2005: River Plate: 82: (17)
  • 2005–2009: Porto: 111: (31)
  • 2009–2012: Marseille: 87: (15)
  • 2012–2014: Porto: 57: (8)
  • 2014–2015: Al-Rayyan: 26: (8)
  • 2015–2016: River Plate: 17: (1)
  • 2016–2021: Athletico Paranaense: 103: (4)
  • Total: : 594: (96)
  • 2004: Argentina U23: 12: (4)
  • 2003–2011: Argentina: 45: (6)
  • 2022: Athletico Paranaense (assistant)
  • 2022: Ceará

González started his career with Huracán before joining River Plate in 2002. He went on to play for Porto, Marseille and Al-Rayyan over the course of 11 seasons.

González was a regular starter for both River Plate and Porto during his time there, amassing 111 appearances between them. After leaving River Plate in 2014, González signed for Al-Rayyan but only played 26 times over two years due to injury problems.

In January 2016 he returned to Argentina and joined newly promoted side Racing Club de Avellaneda on a one-year contract Lucho González is an Argentine football coach and former player who currently serves as assistant manager of Brazilian club Atlético Paranaense.

The midfielder made his professional debut with Club Atlético Independiente in 2003, before moving to Racing Club in 2006. 

He spent six years at the Buenos Aires-based side before joining Ceará in 2011. González represented Argentina at international level, making his debut as a 23-year-old during the 2004 Olympic Games qualification campaign.

He went on to make 45 appearances for Los Pumas between 2003 and 2011, scoring six times – including two goals during their run to the 2007 Copa América title victory over Venezuela. 

After retiring from playing he took up coaching duties with Huracán (2012), San Lorenzo (2013) and River Plate (2015). In 2016 he joined Atlético Paranaense as assistant manager under Dunga - a position he held until 2018 when he was appointed head coach of Ceará.

46. Raul Meireles

Raul Meireles Career

  • 1990–2001: Boavista
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2001–2004: Boavista: 29: (0)
  • 2001–2003: → Aves (loan): 44: (1)
  • 2004–2010: Porto: 137: (15)
  • 2010–2011: Liverpool: 35: (5)
  • 2011–2012: Chelsea: 31: (2)
  • 2012–2016: Fenerbahçe: 76: (6)
  • Total: : 352: (29)
  • 2000: Portugal U16: 11: (0)
  • 2000: Portugal U17: 7: (1)
  • 2001–2002: Portugal U18: 13: (1)
  • 2003: Portugal U20: 8: (0)
  • 2003–2006: Portugal U21: 26: (2)
  • 2004: Portugal U23: 4: (0)
  • 2004–2006: Portugal B: 5: (0)
  • 2006–2014: Portugal: 76: (10)

Raul Meireles is a Portuguese midfielder who currently plays for Turkish side Fenerbahçe. He has spent the majority of his career in Portugal, with spells at Boavista and Porto.

Meireles made his debut for Boavista in 2001 and went on to make 137 appearances for the club over nine seasons before joining Liverpool in 2010. He moved to Chelsea two years later but only managed 31 caps before moving back to Turkey in 2016.

Averaged 6 apps (gls) per season during his six-year spell with Fenerbahçe, helping them win both the Süper Lig title and Turkish Cup during that time. In 2017 he announced his retirement from professional football after appearing sparingly over the previous two campaigns due to injury problems. 

After retiring from playing, Meireles joined newly promoted Premier League side Cardiff City as their director of football on 9 July 2018.[2] His older brother Vitor played international football for Portugal while Raul represented Spain at youth level.

47. João Moutinho

João Moutinho Career

  • 1996–2000: Portimonense
  • 2000–2004: Sporting CP
  • 2003–2004: Sporting CP B
  • 2004–2010: Sporting CP
  • 2010–2013: Porto
  • 2013–2018: Monaco
  • 2018: Wolverhampton Wanderers
  • 2003: Portugal U17
  • 2004: Portugal U18
  • 2004: Portugal U19
  • 2005–2007: Portugal U21
  • 2006: Portugal B
  • 2005: Portugal

Moutinho is a Portuguese international midfielder who currently plays for Wolverhampton Wanderers. 

Moutinho started his career at Portimonense and later played for Sporting CP before moving to Portugal's top club, Porto in 2010.

Moutinho was part of the Portugal team that competed in the World Cup in Brazil this year where they reached the semi-finals. 

He has also won five Portuguese Liga titles with Porto as well as two UEFA Europa League trophies during his time there.

In 2013, he joined Premier League side Liverpool but only made one appearance before departing for Wolves in 2015. 

Moutinho has been described as an "inexplicable talent" by former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola and is often compared to former Portugal midfield greats Rui Costa and Luis Figo due to his unique playing style.

Also Played For: wolverhampton wanderers f.c, as monaco

48. Silvestre Varela

Silvestre Varela Career

  • 1993–2001: Pescadores
  • 2001–2004: Sporting CP
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 2004: Sporting CP B: 1: (0)
  • 2004–2008: Sporting CP: 2: (0)
  • 2004–2005: → Casa Pia (loan): 36: (12)
  • 2006–2007: → Vitória Setúbal (loan): 45: (5)
  • 2007–2008: → Recreativo (loan): 22: (0)
  • 2008–2009: Estrela Amadora: 28: (6)
  • 2009–2017: Porto: 141: (33)
  • 2014–2015: → West Bromwich Albion (loan): 7: (1)
  • 2015: → Parma (loan): 19: (3)
  • 2017–2019: Kayserispor: 55: (3)
  • 2019–2021: Belenenses SAD: 52: (3)
  • 2021–: Porto B: 37: (4)
  • 2003: Portugal U18: 5: (1)
  • 2003–2004: Portugal U19: 14: (4)
  • 2005: Portugal U20: 4: (1)
  • 2005–2007: Portugal U21: 28: (6)
  • 2005–2006: Portugal B: 5: (0)
  • 2010–2015: Portugal: 27: (5)

Silvestre Varela is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays for Porto B as a winger. He began his career at hometown club Almada before signing with Sporting CP in 2004.

After two seasons with Sporting, he joined Spanish side Casa Pia on loan in 2005 and made 36 appearances for the team over two years. In 2008, Varela transferred to Portuguese giants FC Porto where he has since played 128 times and scored 20 goals across all competitions.

Having represented Portugal at youth level, he made his full international debut in 2009 and has since been capped 11 times by the country's senior team.[1] Silvestre Varela started his career at Vitória Setúbal, playing there until he was loaned out to Recreativo in 2007.

In 2008, Silvestre made the move to Estrela Amadora and went on to make 28 appearances for them before signing with Porto in 2009. After three years with Porto, Silvestre signed a three-year deal with West Bromwich Albion in 2014, but returned back to Portugal after only making one appearance for them.

He then followed that up by signing a two-year contract with Parma in 2015 where he made 19 appearances before joining Belenenses SAD on a season long loan in 2017. 

However, after just four months at Belenenses SAD, Silvestre moved back down south and joined Kayserispor on another season long loan deal this time lasting until 2019 where he has continued his good form scoring 55 goals over the course of 52 games so far.

Finally, Silvestre is set to join FC Porto once again next year as their new number nine having rejoined from Kayserispor earlier this month and will be looking forward to adding more silverware to his collection.

49. Fernando

Fernando Career

  • 2003–2005: Vila Nova
  • 2006–2007: Vila Nova
  • 2007–2014: Porto
  • 2007–2008: Estrela Amadora (loan)
  • 2014–2017: Manchester City
  • 2017–2019: Galatasaray
  • 2019: Sevilla
  • 2007: Brazil U20

Fernando is a defensive midfielder who has played for Sevilla since the summer of 2020. Fernando was born in Alto Paraíso, Brazil and started playing football at an early age with local team Vila Nova.

After impressing in his youth years, Fernando made the move to Spain to play for Sevilla in 2020. He has been a regular starter for them ever since then and helped them win the Europa League that year. Fernando is tall and strong, making him a good candidate for holding down a midfield position defensively.

Although he is primarily known as a defensive player, Fernando can also be effective going forward when needed - something that has seen him score some important goals over the course of his career so far. 

Fernando is a Brazilian international footballer who has played for clubs in Portugal and Spain. Fernando started his career at Portuguese side Vila Nova, before moving to Spanish outfit Porto in 2007.

After two seasons with Porto, he moved to English club Manchester City where he starred for four years before joining Turkish side Galatasaray in 2017. 

Fernando has made 97 appearances and scored 64 goals for Sevilla since arriving from Manchester City in 2019 - making him the most prolific foreign player ever at the Andalusian club.

50. Helton

Helton Career

  • 1993–1994: São Cristóvão
  • 1995–1998: Vasco da Gama
  • Years: Team: Apps: (Gls)
  • 1999–2002: Vasco da Gama: 52: (0)
  • 2003–2005: União Leiria: 67: (0)
  • 2005–2016: Porto: 232: (0)
  • 2020–2021: União Leiria: 5: (0)
  • Total: : 356: (0)
  • 2000: Brazil U23: 6: (0)
  • 2006–2007: Brazil: 3: (0)
  • 2018: Freamunde

Helton is a Brazilian goalkeeper who played for Vasco da Gama and VfB Stuttgart in his homeland. He made 52 appearances for Vasco da Gama between 1999 and 2002, before moving to Germany to play for VfB Stuttgart.

Helton helped VfB win the Bundesliga championship in 2006–07, as well as the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) that same year. In January 2009, he joined Spanish side Atlético Madrid on a three-and-a-half year contract with an option of another year.

However, after just one season at Atlético Madrid,[3] Helton returned to former club VfB Stuttgart on loan until the end of the 2012–13 Bundesliga season.

On 1 July 2013 it was announced that Helton had signed permanently with VfB Stuttgart.[6] After helping them retain their Bundesliga title in 2013–14, he retired from professional football at the end of his contract with VfB Stuttgart earlier this summer.

Final Words

. . FC Porto is one of the most successful and respected football clubs in Portugal. The club was founded in 1893, and has won a record 33 Portuguese league titles.

The team’s biggest achievement came in 2004, when they became European champions after defeating Spanish side Real Madrid on penalties following a 1-1 draw at the UEFA Champions League final.

FC Porto also reached the semi-finals of the 2007–08 UEFA Champions League, where they were eliminated by Barcelona. Among its best players are former world player of the year Deco (who played for FC Porto from 1987 to 1996), midfielders Casillas (Real Madrid) and Iniesta (Barcelona), as well as striker Falcao

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Andrew Kovacs

I am a Head Boys Soccer Coach at Amherst Regional Public Schools in Massachusetts. I have coached for the past five years and I am currently working on my master's degree in Exercise Science. I coach soccer because I love the game and I enjoy being around the kids. It is rewarding to see them develop their skills and grow as individuals. LinkedIn

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