While the peak age for footballers is debated, many Brazilian players defy expectations by excelling well into their 30s. Thiago Silva, at 39, once a defensive anchor for Chelsea FC, recently signed a contract to transfer his skills and leadership to his youth club, Fluminense.
READ MORE
++ The four times Pelé played as goalkeeper
++ Which Brazilian players have won the FA Cup in the last 10 years?
++ 1958 and 1962 World Cups: Remembering Zagallo
Similarly, Fernandinho, also 39, continues to command the midfield for Athletico Paranaense, demonstrating tactical intelligence and physical fitness that comes with age.
Marquinhos, although younger at 30, is indispensable as a defender for Paris Saint-Germain, proving vital for the team’s strategy and success. Meanwhile, Willian, now 35, contributes significantly at Fulham, bringing experience and a creative edge to the Premier League club.
Here are the seasoned Brazilian footballers who continue to impress and influence the beautiful game well into their 30s.
- Dante Bonfim (40) – OGC Nice
- Thiago Silva (39) – Fluminense
- Fernandinho (39) – Athletico Paranaense
- Hulk (37) – Atlético Mineiro
- David Luiz (37) – Flamengo
- Cássio Ramos (36) – Cruzeiro
- Marcelo (36) – Fluminense
- Germán Cano (36) – Fluminense
- Willian (35) – Fulham
- Paulinho (35) – Corinthians
- Éverton Ribeiro (35) – Bahia
- Diego Costa (35) – Grêmio FBPA
- Douglas Costa (33) – Fluminense
- Alex Telles (32) – Sevilla
- Danilo (32) – Juventus
- Neymar (32) – Al Hilal
- Fred (31) – Manchester United
- Marquinhos (30) – Paris Saint-Germain
This updated information reflects their latest club affiliations as of 2024.
Remembering Zagallo
Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.
Binge the full series, available on Sambafoot’s Youtube channel.
